19 Cooking Light Thanksgiving Recipe You Won't Believe The Taste!
Published on: Mar 24, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and enjoying a delicious meal together. However, for many people, the thought of preparing a Thanksgiving feast can be overwhelming and stressful. That's where Cooking Light comes in, providing healthy and flavorful recipes for your Thanksgiving table. In this article, we will share some of our top Thanksgiving recipes that are not only delicious but also light and nutritious.
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Sugar, Clove, Cinnamon Sticks, Allspice
Kick off your Thanksgiving feast with a refreshing and festive Thanksgiving cider sangria. This recipe combines apple cider, cranberry juice, white wine, and spices for a delicious and seasonal spin on the classic sangria. Serve it in a large pitcher and let your guests help themselves while you finish up in the kitchen.
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Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Loaf, Cornbread, Butter, Large Onion, Celery
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a hearty and flavorful stuffing. But why settle for a basic bread stuffing when you can try this beer can chicken stuffing recipe? Made with crispy bacon, diced apples, and a touch of sage, this stuffing is the perfect complement to your beer can chicken and other Thanksgiving sides.
Beer can chicken is a great way to cook your Thanksgiving turkey, but if you prefer a more traditional roasting method, this recipe is for you. The secret to a perfectly roasted turkey is to brine it beforehand. This recipe uses a flavorful brine made with herbs, spices, and apple cider for a tender and juicy turkey.
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Thanksgiving Sides
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground
While the star of the Thanksgiving meal is often the turkey, the sides are just as important. And what better way to elevate your Thanksgiving sides than with beer can chicken? This recipe for roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and cheese is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken, adding a delicious and indulgent touch to your holiday meal.
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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without cranberry sauce. But instead of using the canned stuff, why not make your own with this beer can chicken cranberry sauce recipe? The addition of orange juice and honey gives this cranberry sauce a sweet and tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory beer can chicken.
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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery
If you're a fan of the classic bread stuffing, this recipe is for you. Made with French bread, sausage, and celery, this traditional Thanksgiving stuffing is taken to the next level with the addition of beer can chicken. The juices from the chicken infuse the stuffing with rich and delicious flavor.
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a generous serving of mashed potatoes. And this recipe for the best Thanksgiving mashed potatoes will not disappoint. Made with sour cream and cream cheese, these mashed potatoes are rich, creamy, and the perfect side for your beer can chicken.
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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking
If you're looking for a fun and creative Thanksgiving dessert, these OREO cookie balls in the shape of turkeys are sure to be a hit. Made with crushed OREO cookies, cream cheese, and dipped in chocolate, these turkey cookie balls are the perfect sweet treat to end your Thanksgiving meal with.
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Thanksgiving Punch
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon
Looking for a festive and flavorful drink to serve alongside your beer can chicken? This Thanksgiving punch is a delicious combination of apple cider, orange juice, and ginger ale, with a splash of vodka for the adults. Serve it in a large punch bowl and garnish with cranberries and orange slices for a beautiful presentation.
Coleslaw is a classic side dish for any barbecue or picnic, but it also makes a great addition to your Thanksgiving spread. This recipe for Thanksgiving slaw uses a mix of cabbage, carrots, and apples, and is tossed in a creamy and tangy apple cider vinegar dressing. It's the perfect light and refreshing side to balance out the rich flavors of the beer can chicken.
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Thanksgiving Sangria
Main Ingredients: Honey, Water, Apple Pie Spice, Pinot Grigio, Apple
If you're a fan of sangria, this Thanksgiving version is a must-try. Made with red wine, apple cider, and cranberry juice, this sangria is spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and star anise for a warm and festive drink that will keep you merry all holiday long.
Croquettes are a popular dish in many cultures, and this Thanksgiving croquette recipe is a delicious way to incorporate beer can chicken into your holiday meal. Made with a mixture of shredded chicken, mashed potatoes, and corn, these croquettes are then coated in breadcrumbs and fried until crispy and golden brown.
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Pumpkin Crunch – The Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Puree, Evaporated Milk, Granulated Sugar, Large
Pumpkin pie is a staple Thanksgiving dessert, but if you're looking to switch things up this year, try this pumpkin crunch recipe. It combines a creamy pumpkin filling with a buttery pecan crust and is topped with a generous layer of whipped cream. It's like a pumpkin pie and pecan pie had a delicious love child.
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Thanksgiving Pockets
Main Ingredients: Roasted Turkey, Buttermilk Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes
If you're looking for a fun and creative way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers, these Thanksgiving pockets are the perfect solution. Made with puff pastry, turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, these pockets are like a handheld version of your Thanksgiving dinner. Serve them with some gravy for dipping and enjoy a taste of Thanksgiving any time of the year.
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Multi-Cooker Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Large Eggs, Salt, Pepper
If you're short on oven space or just looking for an easier way to make your Thanksgiving stuffing, this recipe for multi-cooker stuffing is a game-changer. Made in a slow cooker, this stuffing is a delicious combination of cornbread, sausage, and cranberries, and is sure to be a hit with your guests.
Don't let your Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste with this delicious leftover turkey pot pie recipe. Made with a creamy filling of leftover turkey, vegetables, and gravy, and topped with a flaky puff pastry crust, this pot pie is a comforting and tasty way to use up all those extra Thanksgiving goodies.
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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic
If you have vegetarian guests coming to your Thanksgiving dinner, this meatless loaf is a great option to have on the menu. Made with a mix of quinoa, lentils, and vegetables, and topped with a savory tomato glaze, this loaf is hearty and flavorful, and will satisfy even the meat-eaters at the table.
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The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Ice Water, Tap Water, Dark Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt
Brining your turkey is the key to a flavorful and juicy bird, and this ultimate Thanksgiving turkey brine recipe is a must-try. Made with apple cider, brown sugar, and a blend of herbs and spices, this brine will infuse your turkey with delicious flavor and keep it moist and tender as it cooks.
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Bacon and Cheese Brussels Sprouts Casserole + My...
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Pepper
Brussels sprouts often get a bad rap, but this recipe for bacon and cheese Brussels sprouts casserole will change your mind. Made with crispy bacon, cheddar cheese, and heavy cream, this casserole is a decadent and delicious way to get your daily dose of veggies. Plus, it pairs perfectly with beer can chicken for a complete and satisfying Thanksgiving meal.
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to indulge in seasonal drinks, and this Thanksgiving cider is a must-have. Made with apple cider, cinnamon sticks, and spiced rum, this warm and cozy drink is the perfect way to end your Thanksgiving feast. And for a non-alcoholic version, simply omit the rum and add a splash of vanilla extract for a delicious and comforting beverage.
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Thanksgiving Cider Sangria
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Sugar, Clove, Cinnamon Sticks, Allspice
Get ready to impress your guests with this delicious and festive Thanksgiving cider sangria. The combination of crisp apple cider, sweet white wine, and warm autumn spices will make this drink a holiday favorite.
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Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Loaf, Cornbread, Butter, Large Onion, Celery
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a heaping serving of stuffing. This classic recipe combines hearty bread, savory herbs, and tender turkey sausage for a delicious and comforting side dish.
Nothing says Thanksgiving like a perfectly roasted turkey. This recipe guarantees a juicy and flavorful bird, with a crispy golden skin that will have your mouth watering.
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Thanksgiving Sides
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground
Thanksgiving is all about the sides, and this recipe has got you covered. From creamy mashed potatoes to roasted root vegetables, these dishes will be the stars of your holiday table.
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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice
No canned cranberry sauce here! This homemade version is bursting with fresh cranberries, orange zest, and warm spices for a tangy and sweet addition to your Thanksgiving feast.
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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery
If you're looking for a traditional and foolproof stuffing recipe, look no further. This classic version is made with toasted bread cubes, sautéed vegetables, and poultry seasoning for a comforting and familiar side dish.
These mashed potatoes are the best for a reason. They're made with creamy and rich ingredients like butter, heavy cream, and sour cream for a decadent and delicious side dish.
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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking
These adorable OREO cookie balls are the perfect Thanksgiving dessert. They're made with crushed OREO cookies, cream cheese, and chocolate for a sweet and festive treat.
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Thanksgiving Punch
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon
Toast to the holiday season with this refreshing Thanksgiving punch. Made with sparkling cider, cranberry juice, and vodka, this drink is sure to be a hit with your guests.
If you're looking for a lighter side dish to balance out all the heavy Thanksgiving foods, this slaw is the perfect choice. It's made with crisp apples, toasted pecans, and a homemade dressing for a refreshing and flavorful dish.
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Thanksgiving Sangria
Main Ingredients: Honey, Water, Apple Pie Spice, Pinot Grigio, Apple
This sangria combines red wine, apple cider, and fall fruits for a delicious and festive drink that will have your guests coming back for more. Serve it in a pitcher or punch bowl for a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Put a Thanksgiving twist on this classic appetizer with these croquettes. They're made with mashed sweet potatoes, bacon, and cranberry sauce for a tasty and unique starter.
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Pumpkin Crunch – The Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Puree, Evaporated Milk, Granulated Sugar, Large
No Thanksgiving dessert table is complete without a pumpkin dish. This pumpkin crunch is like a cross between a pie and a cake, with a crispy and crumbly topping that will have you going back for seconds.
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Thanksgiving Pockets
Main Ingredients: Roasted Turkey, Buttermilk Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes
These savory pockets are filled with all your Thanksgiving favorites - roasted turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce - all wrapped up in a flaky pastry. They're perfect for a quick and easy post-holiday meal.
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Multi-Cooker Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Large Eggs, Salt, Pepper
If oven space is at a premium on Thanksgiving, try making your stuffing in a multi-cooker. This recipe is just as flavorful as traditional stuffing, but it's made in a fraction of the time and frees up your oven for other dishes.
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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic
For vegetarian and vegan guests, this meatless loaf is a delicious and satisfying main dish option. It's made with lentils, quinoa, and seasonal vegetables for a hearty and flavorful meal.
Don't let your Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste - turn them into a delicious pot pie. This recipe uses leftover turkey, vegetables, and gravy for a comforting and tasty post-holiday meal.
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The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Ice Water, Tap Water, Dark Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt
For the juiciest and most flavorful Thanksgiving turkey, try brining it before roasting. This recipe uses herbs, citrus, and spices for a brine that will take your turkey to the next level.
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Bacon and Cheese Brussels Sprouts Casserole + My...
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Pepper
Transform the humble Brussels sprout into a decadent and delicious side dish with this casserole. It's topped with bacon, cheese, and breadcrumbs for a dish that even the pickiest eaters will love.
End your Thanksgiving meal on a sweet note with this homemade and spiced cider. It's the perfect drink to sip on while relaxing and digesting after a big holiday meal.
Delicious Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter
Roasted turkey is a staple dish for Thanksgiving, but it can often be loaded with calories and fat. Our recipe for roasted turkey with herb butter is a healthier alternative that doesn't sacrifice flavor. The herb butter adds a delicious savory taste to the turkey and keeps it moist while roasting.
The key to making this dish light is using skinless turkey breast instead of the whole bird. This cuts down on the fat content and makes it easier to cook. To make the herb butter, mix together fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage with softened butter. Rub this mixture under the skin of the turkey breast and roast in the oven until it reaches an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Creamy Mashed Cauliflower
Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving favorite, but they can also be high in calories and carbs. Our recipe for creamy mashed cauliflower is a healthier alternative that still provides the same comforting taste. Cauliflower is a low-carb and low-calorie vegetable that can easily be mashed and seasoned to mimic the texture and taste of mashed potatoes.
To make this dish, steam cauliflower until tender and mash it with a bit of butter, garlic, and low-fat milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve as a side dish alongside your roasted turkey. Your guests won't even miss the potatoes!
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Crumble
Sweet potato casserole is a classic Thanksgiving side dish, but it often contains loads of sugar and butter. Our recipe for sweet potato casserole with pecan crumble is a healthier version that still satisfies that sweet tooth. Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and fiber-rich vegetable that provides a natural sweetness to the dish.
To make this casserole, mash cooked sweet potatoes with a bit of maple syrup and coconut oil. Top with a delicious pecan crumble made of oats, honey, and cinnamon. Bake until the topping is golden brown and enjoy this guilt-free dessert as part of your Thanksgiving meal.
In conclusion, with these light Thanksgiving recipes from Cooking Light, you can enjoy a delicious and healthy holiday feast without feeling weighed down. Give these recipes a try and make your Thanksgiving celebration a little lighter this year. Happy cooking!
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