Thanksgiving only happens once a year, so why settle for the same basic dishes? With a collection of 35 original recipes, every member of the family can discover something worth fighting over at the table, besides the last roll. These choices cover everything from inventive sides to main courses that make leftovers an actual event.

Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

With flaky layers, Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry make a familiar dish into something memorable for any serious holiday meal. Tender pieces of turkey mingle with a creamy sauce and mixed vegetables wrapped in a golden crust. You can serve these mini pies as a main event or alongside other favorites, making them flexible for your table. Their simple preparation also offers a comforting solution for using up leftover turkey in a way everyone will look forward to.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Few side dishes feel as balanced and flavorful as Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon, an addition that turns a regular meal into an occasion. This recipe brings a pleasant contrast of tang and richness, as crispy bacon mingles with tender cabbage and a hint of sweetness. It pairs nicely with hearty roasts and other centerpiece dishes. Whip this up for a dependable side that can stand up to bold flavors and multiple rounds of seconds.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Rich and hearty, Chicken Gnocchi Soup blends pillowy gnocchi, tender chicken, and fresh vegetables in a comforting broth. This soup works well as a starter, but can easily serve as a fulfilling main when paired with rustic bread. Each bowl captures the familiar goodness of home cooking, offering creaminess and subtle herbs. Gathering around for this soup sets a warm tone and ensures everyone will remember the meal well into the next year.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Gnocchi Soup

Baked Spanish Rice

Plenty of gatherings are improved with the addition of Baked Spanish Rice, a dish that stirs up excitement with its bright flavors and tender texture. Rice absorbs a spiced tomato sauce and emerges from the oven perfectly cooked and aromatic. Besides being filling, this rice can be a great companion to grilled meats or layered in a festive spread. Your holiday meal just might need a second helping of this crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Baked Spanish Rice

Turkey & Apple Panini

Adding Turkey & Apple Panini to your lineup creates a combination of hearty and crisp that breaks up heavier dishes. Slices of turkey balance beautifully with the sweetness of apples, pressed between crusty bread to create just the right level of contrast. Melty cheese unifies each element, ensuring every bite delivers comfort and flavor. These paninis also shine as a next-day meal, keeping the excitement of the celebration going strong.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Guests are often surprised by Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds, a side where nutty almonds and sprouts transform with a touch of browned butter. This easy recipe celebrates simple cooking yet delivers a depth of flavor fitting for such a special occasion. Preparing this dish guarantees the vegetables are tender without losing any texture. The pairing stands up next to traditional mains and brings a refreshing component to your feast.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Smoked Spaghetti Squash

Add intrigue and a smoky aroma with Smoked Spaghetti Squash, where the faint sweetness of squash merges with tasty smoke for a memorable side. This dish breaks away from the usual and introduces a gentle complexity to the table. Simple ingredients allow the flavor of the squash to shine, and a fork easily transforms it into strands that catch any sauce or topping you like. Not only does it look impressive, but it also invites everyone to try something unexpected.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Spaghetti Squash

Turkey Roll Roast

Leaning into easy carving and serving, Turkey Roll Roast is a modern approach to a classic centerpiece. Filled with seasoned stuffing, each slice comes out juicy and packed with flavor from edge to edge. No need to wrestle with a whole bird, which means quicker serving times and less stress on the big day. You’ll find that this roast not only looks impressive but ensures every bite is equally delicious.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roll Roast

Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

Creamy and comforting, Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup brings together two vegetables in a smooth, blended mixture. This soup can be enjoyed on its own or dressed up with toppings like toasted seeds or a swirl of cream. The subtle sweetness from the potatoes pairs well with the earthiness of cauliflower, making this dish appealing even to those who are picky. For gatherings, it provides a warm start that encourages everyone to slow down and enjoy every spoonful.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

Smoked Mac & Cheese

If you want a side that stands apart, Smoked Mac & Cheese combines tender noodles and creamy cheese with a touch of smoky depth. The result brings extra warmth and nostalgia to your meal, evoking classic flavors with a twist. Each serving features a crunchy topping and a gooey interior, making it nearly impossible to resist seconds. It fits seamlessly with traditional fare yet holds its own as a standout option everyone remembers.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Mac & Cheese

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Hands-on cooking meets nostalgia with Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties, which turn two classics into a crispy, golden treat. Tender mashed potatoes and chopped turkey are shaped into patties and pan-fried for a lovely texture contrast. They’re perfect as appetizers, a side, or even a quick lunch the following day. Family and friends will look forward to these as much as the main event itself.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Chicken & Corn Chowder

Filling and flavorful, Chicken & Corn Chowder mixes hearty corn with chunks of chicken in a creamy broth. Bright bursts of sweetness from the corn balance well with the rich, smooth base. Fresh herbs and crispy toppings, like bacon or scallions, make it easy to customize for any crowd. This soup’s familiar combination of ingredients offers warmth and comfort to everyone gathered at the table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken & Corn Chowder

Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Rolling up favorite flavors, Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels unite salty prosciutto with buttery pastry for irresistible bites. Each spiral is loaded with flavor, lending sophistication without adding fuss to your prep time. These are perfect for serving as finger food or alongside other hearty sides. Family and friends will be eager to try these crunchy, bite-sized snacks.
Get the Recipe: Prosciutto Puff Pastry Pinwheels

Sweet Potato Casserole

Tradition gets highlighted with Sweet Potato Casserole, bringing together creamy mashed sweet potatoes and a signature topping that’s often the talk of the table. Whether you cover it in marshmallows or a crisp pecan topping, it offers a combination of smooth and crunchy textures. Its natural sweetness complements richer mains and heavier sides. This comforting dish will leave guests looking forward to their next serving.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole

Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Layered with gentle heat and creamy flavor, Cream of Jalapeno Soup provides a spark for those looking for something new. The jalapenos lend a mild warmth that doesn’t overpower, making the soup inviting to spice-lovers and cautious tasters alike. A creamy base carries this gentle heat, balanced with fresh herbs and hints of garlic. This starter works wonders at kicking off a meal to remember.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Jalapeno Soup

Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Giving an Italian accent to leftovers, Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto blend turkey pieces with cheese in tender pasta shells. Each one gets topped with herby pesto, making for a colorful and aromatic bake. The recipe easily fills a large dish, making it perfect for feeding a hungry group. It’s an unexpected combination that keeps anticipation high for the meal ahead.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Stuffed Shells with Pesto

Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

A fusion of tangy and spicy, Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon brightens up any plate by bringing together crisp apples and smoky bacon. Sauerkraut adds a punch of acidity, making it a lively companion to heavier dishes like roasts or sausages. This recipe introduces new flavors to traditional menus while tying familiar ingredients together. Everyone will appreciate the burst of freshness alongside heartier items.
Get the Recipe: Sauerkraut with Apples & Bacon

Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Simple ingredients shine in Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes, where cubes of potatoes soak up fragrant rosemary and rich garlic aromas. The slow cooking process delivers tenderness without being mushy. This approach develops deeper flavors than many standard potato sides. Serve these potatoes to add a comforting and aromatic boost to your spread.
Get the Recipe: Garlic & Rosemary Braised Potatoes

Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

With its velvety blend of convenience and flavor, Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin becomes a reliable starter that’s both easy and elegant. Smooth canned pumpkin forms the base, while a splash of cream and gentle spices round out the flavors. A sprinkle of croutons or toasted seeds adds texture to each bowl. This soup brings everyone together and sets a welcoming tone for the meal.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Soup with Canned Pumpkin

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Adventure meets tradition through Smoked Dill Pickle Wings, offering a tangy and smoky spin on a well-loved party food. The wings are marinated in pickle juice and spices, then finished with a gentle smoky touch for memorable flavor. The brine adds a punch that sparkles against the deeper smoked notes. Friends and family will be reaching for these as a lively addition to the meal.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

A comforting touch arrives with Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone, which uses rich mascarpone cheese to enhance the creamy sauce. Spinach leaves become tender and flavorful, soaking up plenty of tasty goodness without feeling heavy. This dish complements robust roasts or lighter plates, making it a valuable addition to the table. Guests will appreciate the subtle texture and gentle coaxing of familiar flavors.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach with Mascarpone

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Practical and quick, Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes deliver crispy edges with a soft center, making them a hit for hassle-free preparation. The air fryer brings out the natural sweetness with little oil, giving each piece a light caramelization. Perfect as a side or snack, these cubes are easy to season to suit your preferences. Their appealing color and bite-sized format encourage everyone to grab a handful.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Rich layers define Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup, a recipe that offers deep flavor from slowly-cooked onions simmered in a flavorful broth. Every serving is capped with toasted bread and gooey, melty cheese. Bringing this comforting classic to your dinner encourages lingering conversation and seconds. Those familiar aromas wafting from the kitchen will build everyone’s anticipation for the meal.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Bacon Fried Corn

In Bacon Fried Corn, sweet kernels are quickly cooked with crispy bacon, bringing an extra dimension of flavor to a simple dish. A little caramelization in the pan boosts the taste, offering something unexpected yet familiar. Serve this alongside main courses or mix it into casseroles for variety. With one taste, guests will remember why basic ingredients sometimes really shine.
Get the Recipe: Bacon Fried Corn

Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Luxuriously smooth and golden, Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup combines two favorites in one comforting bowl. The blend of squash and sweet potato results in a subtly sweet and earthy flavor profile. Its creamy base creates a cozy beginning that suits any gathering. Top with fresh herbs or a swirl of yogurt for added flair.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Turkey à la King

Transforming leftovers into something special, Turkey à la King uses tender turkey in a lush, creamy sauce packed with colorful vegetables. This dish works well on puff pastry, rice, or toast, adapting to different preferences. Quick to prepare but never plain, it brings a classic flair to the feast. Family and friends alike will find it a comforting choice after the big meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Smoked Brisket Chili

Heartiness and boldness define Smoked Brisket Chili, where tender brisket and beans simmer with spices and a smoky undertone. The fusion of flavors creates a chili that stands out in both texture and taste. Toppings like sour cream, shredded cheese, or onions allow guests to personalize every bowl. Enjoy this dish when you need something filling and memorable to anchor your spread.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Brisket Chili

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Traditional comfort comes alive with Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli, a dish that’s both nourishing and fulfilling. Fresh broccoli and fluffy rice are combined with a creamy sauce, then baked until bubbling and golden. Each bite brings a gentle flavor that balances out more intense main courses. It’s an easy make-ahead option when your schedule is full.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Mexican Street Corn Soup

Bright and cheerful, Mexican Street Corn Soup borrows the best flavors of elote and folds them into a creamy, hearty soup. Corn, cotija cheese, and a touch of spice build excitement with every spoonful. Both visually appealing and flavorful, it offers variety to a classic holiday menu. This vibrant soup welcomes everyone, whether as a starter or a flavorful side.
Get the Recipe: Mexican Street Corn Soup

Smoked New York Strip Roast

A feast centerpiece shines with Smoked New York Strip Roast, known for its tender marbling and smoky depth. Every cut offers a rich yet balanced taste, ideal for gatherings that call for something extra special. Carving produces juicy, flavorful slices that need little more than a pinch of salt or a dollop of horseradish sauce. Serve it up to guarantee grateful smiles and full plates.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip Roast

Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Deeply flavorful and smooth, Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup brings together two hearty ingredients in a luxurious broth. Caramelized onions deliver sweetness while mushrooms offer a meaty texture that carries the soup. Blended to velvety smoothness, it makes a memorable first course or a cozy standalone meal. Add crusty bread for dipping and listen as conversation flows.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Caramelized Onion & Mushroom Soup

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Enjoying a burst of flavor in every bite, Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets combine earthy mushrooms with crisp bacon in a buttery shell. These mini tarts work well as appetizers or as part of a shared buffet. Effortless to prepare, they add a touch of class without piling on stress. Watch them disappear as guests reach for these tasty little bites.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Comfort comes easily with Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup, where tender chicken and nutty wild rice float in a thick and velvety broth. Every spoonful feels homey and nourishing, perfect for helping everyone unwind and connect. Add fresh herbs or diced vegetables to suit your group’s preferences. It’s a reliable staple for making big gatherings even warmer.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken & Wild Rice Soup

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Keeping it easy and quick, Air Fryer Turkey Breast delivers juicy, evenly cooked meat with golden, crispy skin. The air fryer reduces prep and cook times without sacrificing a flavorful result. Slice and serve as a main or use leftovers in sandwiches and salads. Guests will enjoy the simplicity as much as the final taste.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Warmth and nutrition come together in Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa, a hearty dish combining plant-based protein with sweet bites of potato. Quinoa adds texture and sustenance, making the chili filling without feeling heavy. Spices and tomatoes layer in extra flavor for a bowl that pleases a variety of palates. It’s a thoughtful choice for gatherings with diverse dietary needs.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa