16+ Cooking Light Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas Delight In These Amazing Recipes!
Published on: Mar 16, 2024
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it's time to start thinking about the most important part of the holiday - the food! But if you're looking to keep things on the lighter side this year, don't worry, we've got you covered. We've compiled a list of delicious cooking light Thanksgiving recipe ideas that are sure to impress your guests while still keeping your waistline in check. Whether you're looking for a healthier spin on traditional dishes or some new and creative options, these recipes are sure to make your Thanksgiving feast a hit.
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Sugar, Clove, Cinnamon Sticks, Allspice
Spice up your Thanksgiving celebration with this delicious and refreshing cider sangria. The combination of crisp apple cider, fruity wine, and warm fall spices will be sure to please your taste buds and impress your guests. Serve it in a large pitcher or punch bowl for a festive and easy-to-make drink.
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Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Loaf, Cornbread, Butter, Large Onion, Celery
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a hearty and flavorful stuffing. This traditional dish can be made in many different ways, using a variety of ingredients such as bread, vegetables, herbs, and spices. Whether you prefer a classic bread stuffing or a more unique version, make sure to include it in your Thanksgiving menu for a comforting and satisfying side dish.
The star of the Thanksgiving table is undoubtedly the roasted turkey. This classic main course can be prepared in countless ways, from simple and traditional to more elaborate and creative. Whichever way you choose to cook your turkey, don't forget to baste it frequently to ensure a juicy and flavorful bird.
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Thanksgiving Sides
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground
In addition to the turkey, Thanksgiving is also known for its abundance of delicious sides. From mashed potatoes and green bean casserole to sweet potato casserole and cranberry sauce, these dishes add variety and flavor to the meal. Don't be afraid to experiment with different side dish recipes to find the perfect combination for your Thanksgiving feast.
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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice
No Thanksgiving table is complete without a bowl of cranberry sauce. This tangy and sweet condiment pairs perfectly with turkey and adds a burst of color to your plate. You can make your own homemade cranberry sauce or opt for a store-bought version, but either way, don't forget to include it in your Thanksgiving meal.
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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery
If you're looking for a tried and true stuffing recipe, this classic traditional version is a must-try. Made with cubed bread, aromatic vegetables, and fragrant herbs, this stuffing is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. Bonus tip: Add some cooked sausage to the mix for an extra boost of flavor.
Mashed potatoes are a staple side dish for Thanksgiving, and this recipe is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Creamy, buttery, and full of flavor, these mashed potatoes will be a hit at your holiday table. Pro tip: Use a mix of Yukon gold and russet potatoes for the perfect texture.
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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking
Looking for a fun and creative dessert for Thanksgiving? These OREO cookie balls, shaped like turkeys, are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults. Made with crushed OREO cookies, cream cheese, and dipped in chocolate, these little treats will add a touch of whimsy to your holiday celebration.
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Thanksgiving Punch
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon
Toast to the holiday season with this festive and delicious Thanksgiving punch. Made with cranberry juice, orange juice, and your choice of alcohol, this punch is a great addition to any Thanksgiving gathering. For a non-alcoholic version, substitute the alcohol with sparkling cider for a refreshing and bubbly drink.
Add some crunch and freshness to your Thanksgiving meal with this tasty slaw recipe. Made with a variety of shredded vegetables and dressed with a tangy vinaigrette, this slaw is the perfect side dish to balance out all the rich and heavy dishes on the table. Pro tip: Add some toasted nuts for an extra crunch.
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Thanksgiving Sangria
Main Ingredients: Honey, Water, Apple Pie Spice, Pinot Grigio, Apple
Take your Thanksgiving celebration to the next level with this delicious and colorful sangria. Made with a combination of red wine, apple cider, and a variety of seasonal fruits, this sangria is perfect for sipping and enjoying with friends and family. Bonus tip: Add some cinnamon sticks for a warm and festive touch.
Put a unique and delicious twist on traditional Thanksgiving flavors with these croquettes. Made with leftover turkey, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce, these croquettes are a tasty and creative way to use up your Thanksgiving leftovers. Serve them as an appetizer or as a main course with some gravy for dipping.
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Pumpkin Crunch – The Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Puree, Evaporated Milk, Granulated Sugar, Large
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a pumpkin dessert, and this pumpkin crunch is a must-try. A combination of pumpkin pie and crumble, this dessert is packed with warm fall spices and topped with a crispy and buttery crust. Serve it with some whipped cream for a decadent and satisfying end to your meal.
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Thanksgiving Pockets
Main Ingredients: Roasted Turkey, Buttermilk Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes
These Thanksgiving pockets are a fun and creative way to use up your holiday leftovers. Made with crescent roll dough and filled with a mixture of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce, these pockets are easy to make and are perfect for a quick and tasty post-Thanksgiving snack. Pro tip: Brush the tops with melted butter for a golden and flaky crust.
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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 for Thanksgiving, this multi-cooker stuffing is the perfect solution. Made in a slow cooker or instant pot, this stuffing is just as flavorful and delicious as the traditional oven-baked version. Pro tip: Use a combination of chicken and turkey broth for extra depth of flavor.
Don't let your Thanksgiving leftovers go to waste with this delicious and comforting turkey pot pie. Filled with leftover turkey, vegetables, and a creamy sauce, this pot pie is a tasty and satisfying way to use up all those extra ingredients. Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for a complete Thanksgiving meal in one dish.
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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic
For those who are looking for a vegetarian option for their Thanksgiving meal, this meatless loaf is a great alternative to the traditional turkey. Made with a variety of vegetables, grains, and spices, this loaf is packed with flavor and is sure to please both vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Serve with some mushroom gravy for a hearty and satisfying dish.
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The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Ice Water, Tap Water, Dark Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt
If you want to take your Thanksgiving turkey to the next level, try brining it before roasting. This simple and flavorful brine recipe will infuse your turkey with moisture and flavor, resulting in a juicy and delicious bird. Bonus tip: Add some citrus slices to the brine for a refreshing and bright addition.
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Bacon and Cheese Brussels Sprouts Casserole + My...
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Pepper
Brussels sprouts may not be everyone's favorite vegetable, but this casserole is sure to change their minds. Made with crispy bacon, melty cheese, and tender Brussels sprouts, this casserole is a tasty and indulgent addition to your Thanksgiving spread. Pro tip: Use a mix of Gruyere and cheddar cheese for the ultimate cheesy flavor.
End your Thanksgiving celebration on a sweet note with this delicious and comforting cider. Made with apple cider, warm spices, and a splash of rum, this drink is perfect for sipping by the fire or enjoying with friends and family. Bonus tip: Top it off with some whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon for a festive touch.
The Main Event: Turkey
Herb-Roasted Turkey Breast
For those looking to cut down on calories, try making a herb-roasted turkey breast instead of a whole turkey. This recipe uses a mixture of fresh herbs and olive oil to create a flavorful and juicy turkey breast that is sure to impress. Plus, by using just the breast, you can save on cooking time and have more room in the oven for other dishes.
Citrus and Herb Turkey
For a twist on traditional Thanksgiving flavors, try this citrus and herb turkey recipe. It uses a combination of orange, lemon, and herbs like thyme and rosemary to create a bright and flavorful turkey that is also low in calories. Plus, the citrus adds a touch of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey.
Healthy Sides
Cauliflower Mash
Swap out the traditional mashed potatoes for this cauliflower mash recipe. Not only is it lower in calories, but it also adds a boost of nutrients to your meal. Simply steam cauliflower and blend it with some garlic, Greek yogurt, and herbs for a delicious and creamy side dish.
Roasted Fall Vegetables
Take advantage of the delicious fall produce with this roasted fall vegetables recipe. Simply toss your favorite seasonal vegetables with some olive oil, salt, and pepper, and roast them in the oven for a tasty and healthy side dish. Try using a mix of carrots, Brussels sprouts, and butternut squash for a colorful and flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving spread.
Sweet Endings
Pumpkin Cheesecake
Indulge in a lighter version of a classic Thanksgiving dessert with this pumpkin cheesecake recipe. Using Greek yogurt and reduced-fat cream cheese, this dessert is lower in calories but still just as creamy and delicious as traditional cheesecake. Plus, the addition of pumpkin adds a seasonal twist that is sure to be a hit.
Apple Crisp
For a healthier take on apple pie, try making this apple crisp instead. It uses oats, almonds, and a touch of maple syrup for a crunchy and slightly sweet topping, while the apples are lightly sweetened with cinnamon and nutmeg. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect Thanksgiving dessert.
Now that you have some cooking light Thanksgiving recipe ideas, it's time to start planning your menu. With these delicious and healthy options, you can enjoy all the traditional flavors of Thanksgiving without the guilt. So gather your friends and family, and get ready to dig in!
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