17+ My Favorite Thanksgiving Recipe Unlock Flavor Sensations!
Published on: Mar 20, 2024
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in delicious food. For me, one dish that always stands out on the Thanksgiving table is my grandmother's famous creamy mashed potatoes. This simple yet decadent recipe has been passed down for generations in my family, and it never fails to impress. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, my grandmother's creamy mashed potatoes recipe is a must-try for your next Thanksgiving feast. So, without further ado, let's dive into the mouth-watering details of this beloved dish.
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Sugar, Clove, Cinnamon Sticks, Allspice
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and indulging in delicious food and drinks. This Thanksgiving, add a twist to your traditional sangria by incorporating apple cider. The sweet and tangy flavors of the cider pair perfectly with the fruity notes of the wine, making for a refreshing and festive drink. Plus, the vibrant colors of the fruits and spices make it a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table.
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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 recipe takes a classic stuffing and elevates it with the addition of savory herbs, dried cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. The combination of textures and flavors will have your guests going back for seconds and thirds. Plus, it's easy to make ahead of time and can be reheated on the day of for a stress-free Thanksgiving meal.
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Our Family’s Favorite Thanksgiving Dressing
Main Ingredients: Herb Seasoned, Cornbread, Onion, Celery, Sliced
Dressing, also known as "stuffing" in some parts of the country, is a staple on most Thanksgiving tables. This recipe is a family favorite, passed down through generations. It combines the traditional flavors of sage and thyme with the unexpected addition of sausage and apples. The result is a delicious and comforting side dish that will make your Thanksgiving meal even more memorable.
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Favorite Thanksgiving Salad
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Onion, Garlic Cloves, Dijon Mustard
While Thanksgiving is often associated with indulgent and heavy dishes, it's important to incorporate some lighter options as well. This salad is the perfect balance of fresh and seasonal ingredients, including roasted butternut squash, cranberries, and pecans. Tossed in a tangy vinaigrette, it's a refreshing and colorful addition to your Thanksgiving table.
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Favorite Thanksgivings – Gingery Pear Cheesecake
Main Ingredients: Ginger Snap Cookies, Unsalted Butter, Pears, Cream
For those looking to switch up their traditional pumpkin or apple pie for dessert, this gingery pear cheesecake is a must-try. The warm and spicy flavors of ginger complement the sweet and juicy pears perfectly, creating a unique and delicious dessert. Plus, it can be made ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to serve, making it a stress-free option for your Thanksgiving meal.
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a golden and juicy turkey as the centerpiece. This recipe takes the traditional roasting method and adds a flavorful twist with a citrus and herb butter rub. The result is a succulent and flavorful turkey that will have your guests raving and coming back for seconds.
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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice
Cranberry sauce is a staple on most Thanksgiving tables, but this recipe takes it to the next level. With the addition of orange juice and zest, as well as a touch of cinnamon and ginger, this cranberry sauce is bursting with flavor. It's the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey and can also be used as a topping for desserts like cheesecake or ice cream.
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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 is a must-try for any Thanksgiving feast. It combines classic holiday flavors like sweet potatoes and pecans with a touch of maple syrup and a hint of bourbon. The result is a delicious and indulgent side dish that will have your guests asking for the recipe.
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Thanksgiving Favorite
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Milk, Unsalted Butter, Flour, Gruyere
This dish may not be the most traditional, but it has become a favorite at our Thanksgiving table. It combines creamy mashed potatoes with the savory flavors of bacon and cheddar cheese. Topped with crispy breadcrumbs, it's a decadent and delicious side dish that will have everyone going back for seconds.
Main Ingredients: Best Foods Real Mayonnaise, Lemon Juice, Grated Lemon
After a day of indulging in Thanksgiving feasting, it's always nice to have a lighter and healthier option for leftovers. This turkey paella is the perfect solution. Loaded with vegetables, protein-packed turkey, and flavorful spices, it's a one-pan dish that is both satisfying and nutritious. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover turkey from your Thanksgiving meal.
Mashed potatoes are a classic Thanksgiving side dish, but this recipe takes them to a whole new level. With the addition of tangy goat cheese and fresh chives, these mashed potatoes are creamy, tangy, and packed with flavor. They are the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey and gravy.
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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery
If you're looking for a more traditional stuffing recipe, this one is a winner. It combines the familiar flavors of celery, onion, and herbs with the unexpected addition of apples and dried cranberries. The result is a delicious and comforting side dish that will transport you back to childhood Thanksgivings.
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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking
These adorable OREO cookie balls are a fun and festive addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table. Shaped like turkeys and decorated with chocolate and candy, they are a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, they are easy to make and can be made ahead of time, making them a stress-free dessert option for your Thanksgiving meal.
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Thanksgiving Punch
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon
No Thanksgiving celebration is complete without a festive and delicious punch. This recipe combines cranberry juice, orange juice, and ginger ale for a sweet and tangy drink that is perfect for the holiday season. Plus, it can easily be made into a non-alcoholic version for the whole family to enjoy.
This colorful and refreshing slaw is the perfect side dish to balance out your Thanksgiving meal. It combines shredded cabbage and carrots with dried cranberries, pumpkin seeds, and a tangy vinaigrette. It's a delicious and healthy option that will brighten up your Thanksgiving table.
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Our Favorite Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Water, Fresh Orange Juice, Dark Brown
Cranberry sauce is a must-have on any Thanksgiving table, and this recipe is a standout. Made with fresh cranberries, orange juice, and a touch of honey, it's a tangy and slightly sweet accompaniment to your turkey. Plus, it's easy to make and can be made ahead of time for a stress-free Thanksgiving meal.
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Thanksgiving Sangria
Main Ingredients: Honey, Water, Apple Pie Spice, Pinot Grigio, Apple
This sangria is a festive and delicious addition to any Thanksgiving celebration. Made with red wine, apple cider, and a variety of fruits and spices, it's a flavorful and refreshing drink that will have your guests reaching for more. Plus, the vibrant colors make it a beautiful addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Croquettes are a popular Spanish tapas dish, but this twist on the classic recipe incorporates Thanksgiving flavors like turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. They are a unique and tasty way to use up any Thanksgiving leftovers and make for a fun and unexpected appetizer or side dish.
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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 one is a standout. It combines the flavors of pumpkin pie with a crunchy pecan topping, making for a delicious and indulgent dessert. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for the perfect end to your Thanksgiving meal.
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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 will change that. The combination of bacon, cheese, and a creamy sauce takes these cruciferous veggies to a whole new level. It's the perfect side dish for any Thanksgiving meal and is sure to convert even the most avid Brussels sprouts haters.
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Thanksgiving Cider Sangria
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Sugar, Clove, Cinnamon Sticks, Allspice
Start off your Thanksgiving dinner with a delicious and refreshing Thanksgiving Cider Sangria. This festive drink combines apple cider, white wine, and seasonal fruits for a perfectly balanced and flavorful cocktail. Serve it in a large pitcher or punch bowl for easy sharing with your guests.
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Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Loaf, Cornbread, Butter, Large Onion, Celery
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a delicious stuffing. This recipe takes a classic approach, combining bread, herbs, and chicken broth for a flavorful and moist side dish. Don't forget to add in some cranberries and pecans for a festive twist.
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Our Family’s Favorite Thanksgiving Dressing
Main Ingredients: Herb Seasoned, Cornbread, Onion, Celery, Sliced
If you're looking for a stuffing recipe with a little more oomph, try this family favorite Thanksgiving Dressing. It combines sausage, apples, and sage for a savory and flavorful addition to your holiday table.
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Favorite Thanksgiving Salad
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Red Onion, Garlic Cloves, Dijon Mustard
While Thanksgiving is typically known for its hearty and indulgent dishes, a fresh salad can be a welcome addition to the meal. This recipe combines mixed greens, pears, and blue cheese for a light and refreshing salad that won't weigh you down.
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Favorite Thanksgivings – Gingery Pear Cheesecake
Main Ingredients: Ginger Snap Cookies, Unsalted Butter, Pears, Cream
End your Thanksgiving meal on a sweet note with this Gingery Pear Cheesecake. The combination of warm spices, creamy cheesecake, and sweet pears is the perfect way to round out your holiday feast. Plus, it's a great make-ahead dessert for busy hosts.
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a perfectly roasted turkey. This recipe uses a beer can to keep the turkey moist and infuse it with flavor. The result? A juicy and flavorful bird that will impress your guests.
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Thanksgiving Sides
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potatoes, Eggs, Whole Milk, Grated Nutmeg, Ground
While the turkey may be the star of the show, don't forget about the sides! This recipe combines bacon, brussels sprouts, and cheese for a delicious and indulgent side dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds.
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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice
Forget the canned cranberry sauce and make your own this Thanksgiving. This recipe combines fresh cranberries, orange juice, and maple syrup for a tangy and sweet sauce that pairs perfectly with turkey.
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Thanksgiving Favorite
Main Ingredients: Macaroni, Milk, Unsalted Butter, Flour, Gruyere
If you're looking for a classic Thanksgiving dish with a twist, try this Thanksgiving Favorite recipe. It combines green beans, mushrooms, and bacon for a savory and flavorful side dish that will have your guests asking for the recipe.
Main Ingredients: Best Foods Real Mayonnaise, Lemon Juice, Grated Lemon
Don't let your leftover turkey go to waste! This recipe takes a traditional Spanish dish and adds a Thanksgiving twist. The result is a flavorful and hearty paella that is the perfect way to use up your holiday leftovers.
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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery
If you're a fan of classic Thanksgiving dishes, you'll love this recipe for traditional stuffing. With a simple combination of bread, celery, and onion, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a side of creamy mashed potatoes. This recipe takes a classic approach, using russet potatoes, butter, and cream for the perfect texture and flavor.
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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking
These adorable OREO Cookie Balls are a fun and festive addition to any Thanksgiving dessert table. The recipe uses OREO cookies, cream cheese, and chocolate to create cute turkey-shaped treats that are sure to be a hit with both kids and adults.
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Thanksgiving Punch
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon
Looking for a festive drink to serve alongside your Thanksgiving meal? This Thanksgiving Punch is the perfect option. It combines apple cider, orange juice, and sparkling wine for a refreshing and seasonal cocktail.
If you're looking for a lighter and healthier side dish, this Thanksgiving Slaw is the perfect option. It combines shredded cabbage, apples, and cranberries for a crunchy and flavorful salad that is a great addition to any holiday spread.
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Our Favorite Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Water, Fresh Orange Juice, Dark Brown
Take your cranberry sauce to the next level with this recipe for Our Favorite Cranberry Sauce. The addition of apple, orange zest, and ginger adds a unique and delicious twist to this classic Thanksgiving condiment.
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Thanksgiving Sangria
Main Ingredients: Honey, Water, Apple Pie Spice, Pinot Grigio, Apple
Add a touch of elegance to your Thanksgiving celebration with this recipe for Thanksgiving Sangria. This festive drink combines red wine, brandy, and seasonal fruits for a delicious and sophisticated cocktail.
Take your leftover mashed potatoes to the next level with these Thanksgiving Croquettes. These crispy and flavorful bites are the perfect way to use up any extra potatoes and make a great appetizer or side dish.
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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. This recipe for Pumpkin Crunch is the perfect option, with a delicious combination of pumpkin, spices, and a crunchy topping that will have your guests asking for seconds.
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Bacon and Cheese Brussels Sprouts Casserole + My...
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Pepper
Brussels sprouts get a bad rap, but this Bacon and Cheese Brussels Sprouts Casserole is sure to change any skeptic's mind. The addition of bacon, cheese, and breadcrumbs takes this vegetable to a whole new level of deliciousness.
The Secret to Creamy Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to Thanksgiving sides, mashed potatoes are a staple. However, not all mashed potatoes are created equal. The key to my grandmother's creamy mashed potatoes is in the technique. Instead of boiling the potatoes in water, she simmers them in heavy cream and butter. This allows the potatoes to absorb all the rich and creamy flavors, resulting in a velvety texture that is unmatched. It may seem indulgent, but trust me, it's worth it.
Gather Your Ingredients
To make this creamy mashed potato recipe, you will need:
- 5 pounds of Yukon Gold potatoes
- 1 cup of heavy cream
- 1 stick of butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Prepare and Mash
Peel and chop the potatoes into 1-inch cubes and place them in a pot. Cover the potatoes with heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Cook for 20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes, reserving the heavy cream for later. Using a potato masher, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. Next, add in the reserved heavy cream and butter, and continue mashing until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve and Enjoy
Transfer the creamy mashed potatoes to a serving dish and top with a pat of melted butter. This dish pairs perfectly with roasted turkey and gravy, creating a classic and comforting Thanksgiving meal. Your guests will be coming back for seconds, guaranteed.
Now that you have the secret to my grandmother's creamy mashed potatoes, it's time to add it to your Thanksgiving menu. Trust me, this dish will become a family favorite in no time. Happy cooking!