Planning a Thanksgiving feast for a group can seem like a real test of patience and stamina. Thankfully, there’s a way to feed everyone with recipes that are as easy on the mind as they are on the plates. This collection of 39 dishes was designed to keep mealtime running smoothly and the table fully loaded. No one should need to break out a spreadsheet just to host the holiday.

A white plate with loaded sweet potato casserole topped with sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions, set on a brown charger plate with a fork and cooking utensils in the background. — Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

A slice of sweet potato casserole topped with pecan crumble on a white plate with a spoon, surrounded by pecans and sunflowers. — Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Holiday meals become more manageable when you serve Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping. Creamy sweet potatoes form the base, topped with a crunchy layer of pecans and brown sugar. This combination adds both texture and sweetness, appealing to a wide range of guests. Preparing this casserole ahead lets you enjoy your gathering without fussing in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel Topping

Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

Three white plates with pumpkin turnovers topped with cinnamon sugar, on a rustic wooden table with utensils and autumn-themed decorations. — Easy Pumpkin Turnovers. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Few treats deliver convenience and comfort like Easy Pumpkin Turnovers. Simple puff pastry envelops a warmly spiced pumpkin filling for a dessert that pleases at any table. Quick to assemble and requiring minimal ingredients, these turnovers help keep your holiday stress low. Both kids and adults find them appealing, making them a crowd-friendly option.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Turnovers

31 of Chef Jenn's FAVE Casseroles!

Recipes for Comfort-Filled Family Meals

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Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

A square slice of corn pudding casserole with eggs, red bell pepper, and chives sits on a white plate with a serving spoon underneath. — Classic Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

For effortless side dishes, Classic Corn Pudding Casserole stands out with its rich flavor and familiar texture. This dish blends creamed corn with a custard base, creating a smooth, spoonable addition to your menu. It comes together quickly and can be baked right before meal time or prepared earlier and reheated. Tradition and ease meet perfectly in this casserole.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Pumpkin Spice Scones

Homemade baked goods don’t have to take all day, and Pumpkin Spice Scones show just how simple it can be. Fluffy, lightly spiced, and easy to mix in a bowl, these scones are excellent for breakfast or a sweet snack. You can serve them warm with butter or a simple glaze for extra flavor. Guests appreciate their inviting aroma and tender crumb.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Scones

Cream of Onion Soup

Two bowls of cream onion soup on a wooden table. — Cream of Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Weeknight dinners or special occasions become easier with Cream of Onion Soup on the menu. Slow-cooked onions combine with cream to create a velvety, comforting bowl. It makes a lovely starter or light main course, and pairs nicely with a slice of fresh bread. Making it ahead also allows flavors to deepen, saving you time later.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Onion Soup

Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel

A batch of Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel will quickly disappear from any dessert table. Thick, soft pumpkin cookies are drizzled with caramel, bringing together classic flavors in a neat, handheld form. These cookies travel well for potlucks or gatherings and freeze easily if you want to prepare in advance. No one can pass up their moist texture and irresistible topping.
Get the Recipe: Crumbl Pumpkin Cookies with Caramel

Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Two bowls of quinoa salad topped with avocado slices, cheese, and sour cream. — Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Busy days call for hearty meals, and Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa is packed with protein, fiber, and big flavor. Sweet potatoes add natural richness while quinoa makes the chili filling enough to be a main course. It’s simple to prepare in a single pot, streamlining cleanup and saving effort. Serve with warm bread or a sprinkle of cheese for a comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Chili with Quinoa

Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

One-pan dishes like Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli mean less time cooking and more time spent with loved ones. This recipe mixes fresh broccoli florets, rice, cheese, and a creamy sauce for a simple, fulfilling side. It’s a dependable addition to any large meal and appeals to both kids and adults. Prepare it ahead to save time on busy days.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole with Fresh Broccoli

Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Showcasing fruit desserts doesn’t have to be complicated, especially with Puff Pastry Apple Tart. Flaky pastry supports layers of sliced apples, sugar, and spices for a minimalist approach that feels special. This tart is as easy to assemble as it is impressive to serve, and a glaze finishes it with a bakery-style touch. It’s a reliable choice for effortless entertaining.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Smoked New York Strip Roast

Special occasions feel memorable with Smoked New York Strip Roast, yet the cooking process remains straightforward. Rubbing the roast with seasonings and letting it smoke slowly, you create a tender main dish without constant supervision. Its bold flavor and impressive appearance make it a centerpiece with minimal stress. Rest assured, guests will remember this dish fondly.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip Roast

Turkey à la King

Transform any leftover turkey easily by making Turkey à la King, which combines turkey, vegetables, and a silky sauce. Serve it over toast, rice, or even biscuits for a complete meal that feels both filling and resourceful. It simplifies meal planning while reducing food waste. Your family will appreciate the comforting flavors and practical use of ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Nanna’s Apple Cake

An apple cake on a white plate with cinnamon sticks. — Nanna’s Apple Cake. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Treasured recipes often have the power to bring people together, and Nanna’s Apple Cake is no exception. Sweet apple pieces and gentle spices fill this moist cake, often served as a snack or dessert. You can bake it ahead and store it until needed, reducing your kitchen workload. Guests enjoy the homey taste and hint of nostalgia it brings.
Get the Recipe: Nanna’s Apple Cake

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate. — Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

With Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, your hands are free for other preparations while the slow cooker enriches every bite. This method tenderizes the beans and bacon together, absorbing simple seasonings for pure comfort. Set everything in the pot and let it simmer away until mealtime. It’s an excellent way to add a classic side dish without added hassle.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Even on busy days, baking Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins comes together quickly, thanks to pantry staples and canned pumpkin. Each muffin hides a surprise swirl of sweetened cream cheese for extra richness. They are perfect for breakfast spreads, snack trays, or as grab-and-go treats. Little effort yields a batch everyone will want seconds of.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Impress guests without extra effort by serving Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets. Crispy bacon pairs with sautéed mushrooms in flaky shells, creating delicious two-bite appetizers or side dishes. Assembly is straightforward, especially with pre-made tartlet shells. These tartlets disappear quickly, making them a party hit every time.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

A black plate holds Pumpkin Linzer cookies dusted with powdered sugar. — Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

For festive baking that doesn’t require advanced skills, look to Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies. Pumpkin-spiked dough is cut, filled with jam, and sandwiched together to create beautiful cookies. They offer a fun way to incorporate classic flavors into a familiar format. Guests love their appearance and gentle sweetness without heavy preparation.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Two bowls of cream of butternut squash and sweet potato soup on a wooden table. — Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Velvety Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup adds warmth and comfort to any meal with simple preparation. Roasted vegetables blend into a smooth base, highlighting their natural sweetness. This soup can be made ahead and reheated when needed, saving valuable time. It’s filling enough for an appetizer or a light entrée.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Pumpkin Dump Cake

A slice of layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a white plate. — Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Dessert doesn’t get easier than Pumpkin Dump Cake, combining pantry items in a single baking dish. Canned pumpkin, cake mix, and spices create layers of flavor with minimal measuring. Just pour, bake, and serve for a fuss-free finish to any meal. The texture is cozy, and everyone appreciates the relaxed approach.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Dump Cake

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth. — Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Bringing a balance of flavors to your table is simple with Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Tender cabbage simmers with tangy vinegar and a touch of sugar, while bacon adds richness. This dish pairs well with roasted meats and potatoes, providing color and contrast. Preparation is straightforward, so you can focus on enjoying your day.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Dutch Apple Danishes

Simple breakfasts and dessert trays benefit from the addition of Dutch Apple Danishes. Flaky pastry, luscious apple filling, and a touch of icing make these treats look bakery-fresh. You’ll find them easy to put together using convenient ingredients. These danishes are best served warm, but keep well for sharing later.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Danishes

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

A bowl of French onion soup with bread on top. — Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Serving Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup brings unmistakable comfort with very little effort. Slowly caramelized onions and a rich broth come together for a deep, inviting taste. A slice of bread with melted cheese crowns each bowl for a finish everyone loves. This recipe fits well as a first course or even a lighter meal.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

A loaf of glazed pumpkin bread with two slices cut sits on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by bowls containing glaze and orange puree. — Best Ever Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Never overlook the simplicity of Best Ever Pumpkin Bread, which is both easy to prepare and universally welcomed. Moist crumb and aromatic spices make each slice appealing for breakfast or as a snack. Prepare it in advance and store it for several days, freeing up your schedule. Toast and top with butter for extra enjoyment.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Liven up your plate with Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill, an easy side dish that brightens heavy meals. Steam or roast cauliflower, toss with fresh lemon and dill, and you’re ready to serve. Minimal ingredients and quick preparation mean this dish fits seamlessly into any menu. It’s equally at home on weeknight tables or special occasions.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Celebrations feel a little easier with Pumpkin Crunch Cake, which combines a creamy spiced pumpkin layer and a crisp nut topping. This crowd-pleaser keeps mess and effort to a minimum since everything bakes together in one pan. Serve with whipped cream for a little something extra. Cleanup is quick, and the flavors are universally enjoyed.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Keep your table full and stress low with Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Creamy potatoes are baked with a special blend of cheeses and sometimes a crunchy topping. You can assemble it early and just bake before serving, keeping your focus on other tasks. Family members look for this dish year after year at large gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Baked apple-crumble dessert with ice cream and caramel drizzle, homemade cozy fall treat. — Apple Crisp with Ice Cream. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

After any meal, Apple Crisp with Ice Cream wraps things up with ease. Warm spiced apples beneath a golden crumb need just a scoop of ice cream for the perfect pairing. This dessert is quick to prepare and works well for unexpected guests. You can assemble it ahead and bake when you’re ready to serve, minimizing stress.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme. — Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Cutting down on time and mess is simple with Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Even newcomers to roasting can create a juicy turkey with crispy skin using this countertop method. It’s an excellent solution for smaller groups or extra portions on bigger occasions. Cleanup is easy, and the results are reliably consistent.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

A creative twist for dessert, Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake brings together rich chocolate and pumpkin in a single pan. Swirls of pumpkin throughout the tender brownie keep preparation easy and presentation appealing. You can decorate simply with whipped topping or extra sprinkles. This dessert feels festive without requiring elaborate steps.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon pieces, with one square being served from the dish using a spatula. — Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Both hearty and practical, Twice-Baked Potato Casserole transforms everyday ingredients into a fulfilling side dish. Mashed potatoes are blended with cheese, bacon, and seasonings, then baked until bubbly. Preparing this casserole ahead means less to do right before serving the meal. Guests enjoy every bite, often asking for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting on wooden serving board. — Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Freshly baked Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls fill the house with enticing aromas and make breakfast or brunch more special. The process starts with soft, pumpkin-infused dough, layered with cinnamon sugar and icing. These rolls are prepared with basic ingredients, so the work feels manageable. Everyone appreciates a warm pan served straight from the oven.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate. — Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Bold flavors and easy preparation come together in Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Marinating wings in pickle juice before a gentle smoke infuses them with a tangy taste and tenderness. There’s no need for complicated sauces; just bake or grill after marinating and serve with your favorite dip. Friends and family will enjoy the unique twist on a classic favorite.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

A baking tray filled with a layer of chopped apples coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture. — Caramel Apple Sheet Cake. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Big gatherings run smoother with Caramel Apple Sheet Cake, serving many without multiple pans or layers. Fresh apples give the cake a tender crumb, while caramel drizzled over the top makes each piece special. It’s simple to mix, pour, and bake with minimal hands-on time. Once cooled, cut into squares for a fuss-free dessert everyone loves.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Two small white bowls of applesauce topped with cinnamon are placed on a wooden board next to cinnamon sticks, an apple, and a jar of applesauce. — Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Homemade flavors are easy to achieve using Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe. Apples, sugar, and cinnamon cook down quickly in the Instant Pot, freeing your stovetop for other dishes. Texture can be customized with a quick blend or simple mashing. Store it in jars, serve warm or cold, and enjoy flexible options for snacking or side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Easy Pumpkin Waffles

Two stacked square waffles with syrup on a white plate, set on a white textured surface. — Easy Pumpkin Waffles. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Hearty breakfasts are simple to prepare with Easy Pumpkin Waffles, combining pantry staples with a can of pumpkin. The batter mixes up quickly, and the waffles cook golden in minutes. This recipe offers a warm, comforting meal that’s fun to customize with syrups or fruit. You can refrigerate leftovers and reheat for a speedy meal later on.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Waffles

White Bean Salad

Light yet filling, White Bean Salad comes together fast with canned beans, crisp vegetables, and a light dressing. This dish moves easily between a side and a main, depending on your table. Preparation requires little chopping and no cooking, making it ideal for busy events. Its make-ahead nature helps keep meal prep stress-free.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Salad

Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Reduce kitchen waste and save time with Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties. Mashed potatoes and chopped turkey combine with basic seasonings, then are pan-fried until golden. This solution makes great use of holiday leftovers, serving as breakfast, lunch, or dinner. They’re crisp outside, soft inside, and require just a few steps from fridge to plate.
Get the Recipe: Leftover Turkey Mashed Potato Patties

Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Six pumpkin whoopie pies with cream filling are arranged on a gray plate, viewed from above. Two cinnamon sticks are visible at the edge of the plate. — Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Baking projects feel less daunting with Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies on your list. Soft pumpkin cookies sandwich creamy filling for a classic handheld dessert. The steps are simple and clear, making this treat approachable even for beginners. They store well and travel easily, ideal for sharing or packing in lunchboxes.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Achieving silky, flavorful sides is quick with Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese. Whipping potatoes with cream cheese creates a luscious consistency and subtle tang. They’re always a hit and hold well if you prepare them a little in advance. Serve with gravy or just on their own for a reliable addition to any spread.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Apple Dump Cake

No-fuss baking is possible with Apple Dump Cake, which requires just layering apples, cake mix, and butter in a single dish. This recipe is especially great when time is short and you need a crowd-pleasing dessert. The cake bakes into a soft, warm treat that you can top with whipped cream or ice cream if desired. Cleanup is minimal, and leftovers reheat well.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake