18+ Unique Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas Savor The Mouthwatering Goodness!
Published on: Mar 17, 2024
Looking for unique and delicious Thanksgiving recipe ideas to impress your guests this holiday season? Look no further! We've got you covered with some out-of-the-box dishes that will elevate your Thanksgiving feast to the next level. From appetizers to desserts, these creative and mouth-watering recipes will surely be the talk of the dinner table.
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Sugar, Clove, Cinnamon Sticks, Allspice
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with family and friends and enjoy a delicious feast. And what better way to kick off the festivities than with a refreshing Thanksgiving cider sangria? This recipe combines traditional fall flavors with a boozy twist, making it the perfect drink to sip on while you wait for the turkey to finish cooking.
The base of this sangria is a mixture of apple cider, white wine, and brandy, giving it a sweet and tangy flavor. To add a bit of spice, we also include cinnamon sticks and cloves. And for a pop of color, we add some fresh cranberries and diced apples. Trust us, this Thanksgiving cider sangria will be a hit with your guests.
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Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Sourdough Loaf, Cornbread, Butter, Large Onion, Celery
No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a hearty serving of stuffing. This classic side dish is a staple on every holiday table, and for good reason. It's warm, comforting, and full of flavor. And the best part? There are endless variations to suit everyone's taste buds, making it a versatile and customizable dish.
Whether you prefer a traditional stuffing with herbs and bread cubes or a more unique version with sausage and apples, this Thanksgiving stuffing recipe will be a crowd-pleaser. Plus, it's a great way to use up any stale bread you may have lying around. So get creative with your ingredients and make a stuffing that your guests will be talking about for years to come.
The star of the show at any Thanksgiving dinner is, of course, the turkey. And while it may seem daunting to cook a whole bird, with the right recipe, it's actually quite simple. This roasted Thanksgiving turkey recipe will guide you through the process, resulting in a juicy and flavorful main dish.
The key to a perfect roasted turkey is the brine. It may take some extra time, but trust us, it's worth it. The brine helps to lock in moisture and infuse the meat with delicious flavors. And for an extra crispy skin, we recommend basting the turkey with a mixture of butter and herbs. Your guests will be asking for seconds and thirds!
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Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce
Main Ingredients: Cranberries, Cranberry Juice, Maple Syrup, Orange Juice
Cranberry sauce is a classic Thanksgiving side dish, but many people opt for the canned version, thinking it's too complicated to make from scratch. But we're here to tell you that homemade cranberry sauce is actually quite easy and adds a burst of flavor to your holiday meal.
This Thanksgiving cranberry sauce recipe uses fresh cranberries, orange juice, and warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg to create a deliciously tangy and sweet sauce. It's the perfect accompaniment to your turkey and stuffing, and it also makes a great leftover sandwich condiment. Trust us, once you try homemade cranberry sauce, you'll never go back to the canned stuff.
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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, Thanksgiving sides are what really make the meal. From creamy mashed potatoes to savory green bean casserole, there are so many delicious side dishes to choose from. And the best part? You can never have too many.
Some of our favorite Thanksgiving sides include roasted Brussels sprouts with bacon and cheese, multi-cooker stuffing, and a meatless loaf for our vegetarian friends. And let's not forget about the classic sweet potato casserole topped with toasted marshmallows. With so many options, you may need to make extra room on your table for all the delicious sides.
No holiday meal is complete without a big bowl of mashed potatoes. They're creamy, comforting, and the perfect vehicle for gravy. But not all mashed potatoes are created equal.
This recipe for the best Thanksgiving mashed potatoes is a game-changer. We use a combination of Yukon gold and russet potatoes for the perfect texture, and add in heavy cream, butter, and garlic for maximum flavor. And for an extra indulgence, we top it off with some crispy fried onions. It's a dish that will have your guests coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds).
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Classic Traditional Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Unsalted Butter, French Bread, Vidalia Onion, Celery
When it comes to Thanksgiving stuffing, sometimes you just can't beat the classic. This traditional stuffing recipe uses bread cubes, onions, celery, and herbs to create a simple yet flavorful side dish.
What sets this stuffing apart is the addition of chicken broth and eggs, which give it a moist and custardy texture. It's the perfect pairing for your roasted turkey and cranberry sauce, and it's also great for soaking up any extra gravy. Trust us, this classic traditional Thanksgiving stuffing will become a staple in your holiday meal rotation.
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OREO Cookie Balls - Thanksgiving Turkey
Main Ingredients: Oreo Cookies, Cream Cheese, Semi Sweet Baking
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a sweet treat, and these OREO cookie balls in the shape of turkeys are the perfect dessert to end your meal on a festive note.
Made with crushed OREO cookies, cream cheese, and melted chocolate, these cookie balls are easy to make and oh-so-delicious. We use candy eyes and candy corn to create the turkey feathers and face, making them a fun and creative activity for kids to help with. And the best part? They taste just as good as they look.
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Thanksgiving Punch
Main Ingredients: Apple Cider, Caramel Syrup, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Cinnamon
If you're looking for a crowd-pleasing drink to serve at your Thanksgiving gathering, look no further than this Thanksgiving punch. It's a refreshing and fruity beverage that's perfect for sipping on while you wait for the turkey to cook.
This punch is made with apple cider, cranberry juice, ginger ale, and a splash of vodka for an extra kick. We also add in some sliced apples and cranberries for a festive touch. It's a drink that both adults and kids can enjoy, and it's a great way to use up any leftover cider you may have from making sangria.
Looking for a lighter side dish to balance out all the indulgent Thanksgiving foods? This Thanksgiving slaw is the perfect choice. It's a refreshing and crunchy salad that adds a burst of flavor to your holiday meal.
We use a mix of cabbage, carrots, and apples for a sweet and tangy slaw, and dress it with a simple vinaigrette made with apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard. And for some added texture and flavor, we top it off with some toasted pecans and dried cranberries. It's a delicious and healthy addition to your Thanksgiving dinner.
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Thanksgiving Sangria
Main Ingredients: Honey, Water, Apple Pie Spice, Pinot Grigio, Apple
We couldn't resist including another sangria recipe on this list, and this Thanksgiving sangria is just as delicious as the first. It's a red wine-based sangria that's perfect for those who prefer a richer and more robust flavor.
This sangria is made with red wine, apple cider, cranberry juice, and a splash of brandy. We also add in some sliced apples and cinnamon sticks for a pop of fall flavor. It's a great drink to serve alongside your Thanksgiving dinner or to enjoy while you relax after the meal.
If you're looking for a unique and tasty appetizer to serve at your Thanksgiving dinner, these Thanksgiving croquettes are a must-try. They're made with a filling of mashed potatoes, stuffing, and shredded turkey, and coated in panko breadcrumbs for a crispy exterior.
These croquettes are a great way to use up any leftovers from your holiday meal, and they're also a fun and creative way to enjoy all your Thanksgiving favorites in one bite. Serve them with some cranberry sauce for dipping and watch them disappear in no time.
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Pumpkin Crunch – The Perfect Thanksgiving Dessert
Main Ingredients: Pumpkin Puree, Evaporated Milk, Granulated Sugar, Large
Pumpkin pie may be the most popular Thanksgiving dessert, but this pumpkin crunch is a close second. It's a delicious and indulgent treat that combines all the flavors of a pumpkin pie with a crunchy streusel topping.
We use a combination of canned pumpkin, evaporated milk, and warm spices to create a creamy and flavorful filling, and top it off with a mixture of butter, sugar, and oats for a sweet and crunchy crust. It's the perfect dessert to enjoy while you sit by the fire and reflect on all the things you're thankful for.
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Bacon and Cheese Brussels Sprouts Casserole + My...
Main Ingredients: Brussels Sprouts, Olive Oil, Salt, Ground Pepper
If you're looking for a new way to enjoy Brussels sprouts, this bacon and cheese casserole is a must-try. It's a delicious and indulgent side dish that's perfect for your Thanksgiving spread.
We sauté bacon, onions, and garlic and mix it with Brussels sprouts, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese for a rich and flavorful casserole. And to top it off, we add a crispy panko breadcrumb topping for some extra crunch. It's a dish that even the pickiest of eaters will love, and it's sure to become a new holiday favorite.
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Multi-Cooker Thanksgiving Stuffing
Main Ingredients: Low Sodium Chicken Broth, Large Eggs, Salt, Pepper
Short on oven space for Thanksgiving? No problem. This multi-cooker stuffing recipe allows you to make your favorite side dish in a fraction of the time and without taking up any precious oven real estate.
We use a combination of bread cubes, chicken broth, and a variety of herbs and spices to create a flavorful and moist stuffing. And with the help of a multi-cooker, it's ready in just 30 minutes. It's the perfect solution for a stress-free holiday meal.
After Thanksgiving, you're likely to have a lot of leftover turkey. And while turkey sandwiches are always a good option, why not mix things up with this leftover Thanksgiving turkey pot pie? It's a comforting and hearty meal that's perfect for using up any extra turkey and vegetables you may have.
We use a store-bought pie crust and fill it with a mixture of turkey, vegetables, and a creamy sauce. It's a great way to repurpose your Thanksgiving leftovers and create a whole new meal that your family will love.
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Thanksgiving Pockets
Main Ingredients: Roasted Turkey, Buttermilk Biscuits, Mashed Potatoes
If you're in charge of bringing an appetizer to your Thanksgiving gathering, these Thanksgiving pockets are sure to be a hit. They're a simple yet delicious bite-sized snack that's perfect for munching on while you wait for the main meal.
We use store-bought puff pastry and stuff it with a mixture of turkey, cranberry sauce, and brie cheese for a sweet and savory flavor combination. They're easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making them a stress-free appetizer option.
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The Ultimate Thanksgiving Turkey Brine
Main Ingredients: Ice Water, Tap Water, Dark Brown Sugar, Kosher Salt
As mentioned earlier, brining your turkey is key to achieving a moist and flavorful bird. And this ultimate Thanksgiving turkey brine recipe takes things to the next level. It's a combination of salt, sugar, herbs, and spices that infuses the turkey with delicious flavors and ensures it stays juicy while cooking.
Brining may take some extra time and effort, but trust us, it's worth it. Your turkey will be the talk of the town and your guests will be asking for your secret recipe.
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Thanksgiving Meatless Loaf
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Onion, Celery, Medium Carrot, Garlic
For our vegetarian friends, we have the perfect Thanksgiving main dish for you. This meatless loaf is packed with protein and hearty ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and quinoa, making it a filling and nutritious option for your holiday meal.
We also include warm spices like cumin and smoked paprika for a burst of flavor, and top it off with a tangy tomato glaze. Even meat-eaters will be impressed with this meatless loaf, making it a great choice for a diverse Thanksgiving table.
Main Ingredients: Turkey, Salt, Sugar, Mandarin Oranges, Fresh Sage
Last but certainly not least, we have another delicious Thanksgiving turkey recipe. This oven roasted brined turkey is easy to make and yields a juicy and flavorful bird every time.
Using a simple brine of water, salt, and sugar, this turkey recipe is all about simplicity and letting the natural flavors of the turkey shine. And with the help of some butter and herbs, it results in a perfectly golden and crispy skin. It's a no-fail recipe that's perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
Appetizers to Kickstart Your Thanksgiving Dinner
Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Crostini
One of the featured ingredients of Thanksgiving is sweet potatoes. Why not incorporate them into a savory appetizer? Simply slice sweet potatoes and bake until crispy. Then, top them with tangy goat cheese, a sprinkle of thyme, and a drizzle of honey for the perfect balance of flavors.
Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Cranberry sauce is a staple on every Thanksgiving table, but have you ever thought of using it in a bite-sized appetizer? These elegant puff pastry bites are filled with creamy brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce. They're easy to make and will surely impress your guests.
Unique Main Course Ideas for a Memorable Thanksgiving
Pumpkin and Sage Risotto
Forget the traditional turkey and try something unexpected this Thanksgiving. This creamy and flavorful pumpkin and sage risotto is a vegetarian option that will satisfy even the meat lovers at the table. Plus, it's gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Breast
For those who can't imagine Thanksgiving without turkey, why not switch it up with a bacon-wrapped turkey breast? The bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the tender turkey, making it a mouth-watering twist on the traditional dish.
Indulgent Desserts to End Your Thanksgiving Feast on a Sweet Note
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Combine two Thanksgiving classics into one with this decadent pecan pie cheesecake. The rich and creamy cheesecake is topped with a layer of gooey pecan pie filling, creating a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone going back for seconds.
Apple Cider Donut Bread Pudding
Don't let stale donuts go to waste after Thanksgiving. Turn them into a delicious and comforting dessert with this apple cider donut bread pudding. The warm and cozy flavors of apple cider and cinnamon make for the perfect ending to a memorable Thanksgiving meal.
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Appetizers to Kickstart Your Thanksgiving Dinner
Sweet Potato and Goat Cheese Crostini
One of the featured ingredients of Thanksgiving is sweet potatoes. Why not incorporate them into a savory appetizer? Simply slice sweet potatoes and bake until crispy. Then, top them with tangy goat cheese, a sprinkle of thyme, and a drizzle of honey for the perfect balance of flavors.
Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites
Cranberry sauce is a staple on every Thanksgiving table, but have you ever thought of using it in a bite-sized appetizer? These elegant puff pastry bites are filled with creamy brie cheese and tangy cranberry sauce. They're easy to make and will surely impress your guests.
Unique Main Course Ideas for a Memorable Thanksgiving
Pumpkin and Sage Risotto
Forget the traditional turkey and try something unexpected this Thanksgiving. This creamy and flavorful pumpkin and sage risotto is a vegetarian option that will satisfy even the meat lovers at the table. Plus, it's gluten-free for those with dietary restrictions.
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Breast
For those who can't imagine Thanksgiving without turkey, why not switch it up with a bacon-wrapped turkey breast? The bacon adds a smoky and savory flavor to the tender turkey, making it a mouth-watering twist on the traditional dish.
Indulgent Desserts to End Your Thanksgiving Feast on a Sweet Note
Pecan Pie Cheesecake
Combine two Thanksgiving classics into one with this decadent pecan pie cheesecake. The rich and creamy cheesecake is topped with a layer of gooey pecan pie filling, creating a show-stopping dessert that will have everyone going back for seconds.
Apple Cider Donut Bread Pudding
Don't let stale donuts go to waste after Thanksgiving. Turn them into a delicious and comforting dessert with this apple cider donut bread pudding. The warm and cozy flavors of apple cider and cinnamon make for the perfect ending to a memorable Thanksgiving meal.