15 Church Potluck Turkey Day Recipe Ideas

15 Church Potluck Turkey Day Recipe Ideas

Classic Roast Turkey With Herb Butter

herb butter roast turkey

Classic Roast Turkey With Herb Butter is a traditional centerpiece for any Thanksgiving feast, particularly perfect for church potlucks. This succulent bird is generously slathered with a rich herb-infused butter, ensuring each bite is flavorful and moist. It’s a dish that brings people together, creating cherished moments around the table.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole turkey 14-16 pounds
Unsalted butter 1 cup (2 sticks)
Fresh thyme 2 tablespoons
Fresh rosemary 2 tablespoons
Fresh sage 2 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Lemon, zested and juiced 1
Salt 2 tablespoons
Black pepper 1 tablespoon
Onion 1 large, quartered
Carrots 2, cut into chunks
Celery 2 stalks, cut into chunks

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine softened butter, thyme, rosemary, sage, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create the herb butter.
  3. Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Gently separate the skin from the breast and thighs, then rub half of the herb butter under the skin and the remaining over the entire turkey.
  4. Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery.
  5. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and cover it loosely with aluminum foil.
  6. Roast in the preheated oven for about 13-15 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  7. Remove the foil during the last hour of cooking for a golden-brown skin.
  8. Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving. Enjoy your delightful potluck dish!
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Garlic Mashed Potatoes

creamy garlic infused mashed potatoes

Garlic Mashed Potatoes are a creamy, flavorful side dish that perfectly complements the turkey at any Thanksgiving potluck. Infused with roasted garlic and a touch of butter and cream, these mashed potatoes are sure to be a crowd-pleaser, offering a comforting staple that’s both simple to make and rich in taste.

Ingredients Quantity
Potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet) 3 pounds
Garlic 1 whole bulb
Unsalted butter 4 tablespoons
Heavy cream 1 cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Chives or parsley (optional) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Slice the top off the bulb of garlic, drizzle with olive oil, wrap in foil, and roast for about 30-40 minutes until soft.
  2. While garlic roasts, peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add salt and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Squeeze the roasted garlic into the potatoes and add butter and heavy cream.
  4. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
  5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped chives or parsley if desired. Enjoy this delicious addition to your potluck spread!
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Savory Stuffing With Apples and Sausage

savory sausage apple stuffing

Savory Stuffing With Apples and Sausage is a delightful blend of flavors that brings together the savory essence of sausage, the sweetness of apples, and a medley of aromatic herbs. This hearty dish makes an excellent accompaniment to turkey, offering a paradigm of textures and flavors that elevate any Thanksgiving potluck. It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, making it a practical choice for your holiday gatherings.

Ingredients Quantity
Italian sausage (casings removed) 1 pound
Onion 1 medium, diced
Celery 2 stalks, diced
Apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp) 2 cups, diced
Bread (cubed, day-old) 8 cups
Chicken broth 2 cups
Fresh sage 2 tablespoons, chopped
Fresh thyme 1 tablespoon, chopped
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Dried cranberries (optional) ½ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same skillet, add onion and celery, cooking until softened. Stir in the diced apples and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, sautéed vegetables, bread cubes, herbs, and cranberries. Pour in the chicken broth and mix until everything is well combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown.
  5. Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this savory stuffing as a perfect side dish for your turkey feast!
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Green Bean Casserole With Crispy Onions

crispy onion green bean casserole

Green Bean Casserole With Crispy Onions is a classic Thanksgiving side dish that brings together tender green beans, creamy mushroom soup, and is topped with crunchy fried onions for a delightful contrast in texture. This comforting casserole is an essential part of any holiday meal, offering a blend of flavors that please crowds and evoke nostalgic memories around the table.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk ½ cup
Soy sauce 1 tablespoon
Black pepper to taste
Fried onions 1 cup
Parmesan cheese (optional) ½ cup, grated

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Trim and blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 5 minutes, then drain and set aside.
  3. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir in the blanched green beans and half of the fried onions.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove and sprinkle the top with the remaining fried onions.
  6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes until hot and bubbly. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Honey Glazed Carrots

sweet honey glazed carrots

Honey Glazed Carrots are a sweet and vibrant side dish that adds a burst of color and flavor to any Thanksgiving potluck. The natural sweetness of carrots is enhanced by a simple honey glaze, creating a delightful balance that complements savory dishes beautifully. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also offers a healthy option to round out your holiday feast.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots 1 pound
Honey 3 tablespoons
Butter 2 tablespoons
Brown sugar 1 tablespoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley (optional) for garnish

Cooking Steps:

  1. Peel and slice the carrots into uniform pieces, about ½ inch thick.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the carrots and stir to coat.
  3. Add honey, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
  4. Cook the carrots for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender and the glaze is thickened.
  5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
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Cranberry Orange Sauce

zesty cranberry orange sauce

Cranberry Orange Sauce is a zesty and refreshing condiment that perfectly balances the tartness of cranberries with the bright flavor of orange. This simple, homemade sauce is an essential addition to any Thanksgiving spread, adding a burst of color and a tangy sweetness that complements turkey and ham beautifully. It’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld for a more delicious outcome.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries 12 ounces
Orange juice ½ cup
Orange zest 1 tablespoon
Sugar ¾ cup
Water ¼ cup
Cinnamon stick 1 (optional)
Salt a pinch

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a medium saucepan, combine fresh cranberries, orange juice, water, and sugar. If using, add the cinnamon stick for extra flavor.
  2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  3. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let simmer for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  4. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest and a pinch of salt. Discard the cinnamon stick, if used.
  5. Allow the sauce to cool, then transfer it to a serving dish. Serve chilled or at room temperature. Enjoy!
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Creamed Spinach

creamy garlic spinach side dish

Creamed Spinach is a rich and creamy side dish that transforms fresh spinach into a velvety accompaniment, perfect for any Thanksgiving table. This classic recipe features tender spinach elegantly combined with a creamy garlic sauce, making it a deliciously indulgent option that pairs beautifully with turkey and other holiday favorites. It’s a great way to incorporate greens into your meal while still satisfying everyone’s taste buds.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach 1 pound
Butter 3 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Heavy cream ½ cup
Cream cheese 4 ounces
Parmesan cheese, grated ¼ cup
Salt to taste
Black pepper to taste
Nutmeg (optional) a pinch

Cooking Steps:

  1. In a large pot, bring water to a boil and blanch the fresh spinach for about 2 minutes, then drain and rinse with cold water. Squeeze out excess moisture and chop the spinach.
  2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and stir in heavy cream and cream cheese, cooking until the cream cheese melts and the mixture is heated through.
  4. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg, cooking until well combined and creamy.
  5. Serve warm as a delightful side dish to your Thanksgiving feast. Enjoy!
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Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallow Topping

sweet potato marshmallow casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping is a classic Thanksgiving dish known for its sweet, comforting flavors and delightful textures. This dish features a creamy sweet potato base that is perfectly balanced with a gooey layer of melted marshmallows on top, creating a deliciously sweet and savory side that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any potluck gathering.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 3 cups, mashed
Brown sugar ½ cup
Milk ¼ cup
Butter ¼ cup, melted
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Mini marshmallows 2 cups

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and salt; mix until smooth.
  3. Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread evenly.
  4. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove from the oven and sprinkle mini marshmallows evenly on top.
  5. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden and melted.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before serving and enjoy this delectable holiday treat!
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Cornbread Muffins

delicious cornbread muffin recipe

Cornbread Muffins are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table, providing a slightly sweet and moist contrast to savory dishes. They boast a light, fluffy texture and a golden crust that makes them perfect for soaking up gravy or served with butter and honey.

Ingredients Quantity
Cornmeal 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Sugar ¼ cup
Baking powder 1 tablespoon
Salt ½ teaspoon
Milk 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Butter (melted) ⅓ cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In another bowl, whisk together milk, eggs, and melted butter.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients, stirring until just combined (do not overmix).
  5. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about two-thirds full.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the muffins are golden and a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
  7. Let them cool slightly before serving, and enjoy warm with butter!
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Pumpkin Pie With Whipped Cream

classic pumpkin pie delight

Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream is a classic Thanksgiving dessert that embodies the warm flavors of fall. With its rich, spiced pumpkin filling and buttery crust, this pie is sure to impress your guests. Topped with a generous dollop of fresh whipped cream, it’s a sweet ending to the perfect Thanksgiving meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Pie crust 1 (store-bought or homemade)
Pumpkin puree 1 cup
Sweetened condensed milk 1 cup
Eggs 2 large
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg ½ teaspoon
Ground ginger ½ teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Heavy whipping cream 1 cup
Powdered sugar 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C) and place the pie crust in a 9-inch pie dish.
  2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, sweetened condensed milk, eggs, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, salt, and vanilla until smooth.
  3. Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust.
  4. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for an additional 35-40 minutes, or until a knife inserted comes out clean.
  5. While the pie cools, whip the heavy cream with powdered sugar until soft peaks form.
  6. Serve slices of pie topped with whipped cream and enjoy!

Pecan Pie Bars

pecan pie dessert bars

Pecan Pie Bars are a delightful twist on the traditional pecan pie, offering all the rich, nutty flavors in a convenient bar form. These sweet bars are perfect for potlucks, featuring a buttery crust topped with a gooey pecan filling and are sure to satisfy any crowd with their irresistible sweetness and crunch.

Ingredients Quantity
Unsalted butter ½ cup (1 stick)
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Eggs 3 large
Light corn syrup ½ cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt ¼ teaspoon
Chopped pecans 1 cup

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix melted butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar, and flour until combined to form the crust, then press it into the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  3. Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, until lightly golden.
  4. In another bowl, whisk together eggs, corn syrup, vanilla, salt, and chopped pecans.
  5. Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust and return it to the oven for another 25-30 minutes or until set.
  6. Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars and serving. Enjoy!

Apple Crisp With Oat Topping

warm apple crisp dessert

Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is a warm and comforting dessert that perfectly encapsulates the flavors of fall. This dish combines sweet, tender baked apples with a deliciously crunchy oat topping, making it an ideal choice for a church potluck or family gathering. It’s simple to prepare and provides a cozy, homemade feel that everyone will love.

Ingredients Quantity
Granny Smith apples 6 cups, peeled and sliced
Granulated sugar ½ cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Rolled oats 1 cup
All-purpose flour ½ cup
Brown sugar ½ cup
Unsalted butter ½ cup (1 stick), melted
Salt ¼ teaspoon

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, toss the sliced apples with granulated sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice, then spread them evenly in the baking dish.
  3. In another bowl, mix rolled oats, flour, brown sugar, melted butter, and salt until crumbly.
  4. Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are bubbly.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before serving, and enjoy warm!

Turkey Pot Pie

hearty turkey pot pie

Turkey Pot Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for using up leftover turkey from your holiday gatherings. This savory pie is filled with tender turkey and a medley of vegetables, all enveloped in a flaky pastry crust. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be served at church potlucks or family dinners, bringing everyone together for a warm and satisfying meal.

Ingredients Quantity
Cooked turkey, shredded 3 cups
Frozen mixed vegetables 2 cups
Onion, chopped 1 medium
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Chicken broth 1 cup
Heavy cream 1/2 cup
All-purpose flour 1/3 cup
Butter 1/4 cup
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Dried thyme 1 teaspoon
Prepared pie crusts (top & bottom) 2 (9-inch)

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat, and sauté onions and garlic until translucent.
  3. Stir in flour, then gradually add chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture thickens.
  4. Add cooked turkey, mixed vegetables, salt, pepper, and thyme; mix until combined.
  5. Fill the bottom pie crust with the turkey mixture, cover with the top crust, and seal the edges.
  6. Cut slits in the top crust for steam to escape, then bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden brown.
  7. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy!

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole

cheesy broccoli rice casserole

Cheesy Broccoli and Rice Casserole is a comforting and creamy dish that’s not only delicious but also a great way to incorporate healthy broccoli into your meal. This casserole is a perfect side dish for potlucks, providing a cheesy and rich flavor that perfectly complements turkey or any main course. It’s easy to prepare and will surely be a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Broccoli florets 4 cups
Cooked rice 3 cups
Cheddar cheese, shredded 2 cups
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 oz)
Milk 1/2 cup
Onion, chopped 1/2 medium
Garlic powder 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Butter 2 tablespoons

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cream of mushroom soup, milk, onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Fold in cheddar cheese until combined.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese and butter.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes until the casserole is bubbly and the top is golden.
  6. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving and enjoy!

Spinach Artichoke Dip With Chips

creamy spinach artichoke dip

Spinach Artichoke Dip is a creamy and savory appetizer that brings together the flavors of fresh spinach and artichokes, blended with cheese and spices to create a delicious dip that’s perfect for dipping with chips. It’s an ideal dish for potlucks, adding a touch of warmth and comfort to any gathering, while also being a favorite among both adults and kids.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh spinach, chopped 2 cups
Canned artichoke hearts, drained and chopped 1 can (14 oz)
Cream cheese, softened 8 oz
Sour cream 1/2 cup
Mayonnaise 1/4 cup
Parmesan cheese, grated 1/2 cup
Mozzarella cheese, shredded 1 cup
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Tortilla chips For serving

Cooking Steps:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
  3. Stir in chopped spinach, artichokes, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and mozzarella cheese, and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden and bubbly.
  6. Serve warm with tortilla chips and enjoy!

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Hi! I’m Emily. I’m a cozy‑kitchen tinkerer turning everyday ingredients into crave‑worthy plates—quick sizzles, bright flavors, and zero fuss, always with a smile. Playlist on, whisk in hand, I chase comfort that tastes a little sparkly and a lot homemade—playful, practical, and unapologetically delicious.