15 Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas for Large Families

15 Thanksgiving Recipe Ideas for Large Families

Herb-Roasted Turkey

herb infused roasted turkey delight

Herb-Roasted Turkey is a classic centerpiece for any Thanksgiving feast, boasting tender meat infused with aromatic herbs. This dish balances savory flavors with a crispy golden skin, making it a delightful and festive option for your holiday table. The fragrant combination of fresh herbs enhances the turkey’s natural juices, resulting in a succulent and memorable meal that brings family and friends together.

Ingredients Quantity
Whole turkey 12-14 pounds
Olive oil 1/2 cup
Fresh rosemary 3 tablespoons
Fresh thyme 3 tablespoons
Fresh sage 3 tablespoons
Garlic cloves 6, minced
Salt 2 tablespoons
Black pepper 1 tablespoon
Onion 1, quartered
Carrots 2, cut into chunks
Celery 2 stalks, cut into chunks
Chicken broth 4 cups

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, herbs, salt, and pepper to create a herb paste.
  3. Pat the turkey dry and rub the herb paste all over the turkey, including under the skin.
  4. Stuff the cavity with onion, carrots, and celery.
  5. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan and pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan.
  6. Roast for approximately 13-15 minutes per pound, basting occasionally with pan juices.
  7. Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.
  8. Let the turkey rest for at least 20 minutes before carving and serving.
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Honey Glazed Ham

sweet and savory centerpiece

Honey Glazed Ham is a sweet and savory dish that adds a festive touch to any Thanksgiving table. The rich flavors of succulent ham, combined with a sticky honey glaze, create an irresistible centerpiece for your holiday feast. This dish is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, making it a perfect choice for gatherings with family and friends.

Ingredients Quantity
Fully cooked ham 8-10 pounds
Honey 1 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Dijon mustard 1/4 cup
Ground cloves 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Whole cloves 12-15
Pineapple slices Optional, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. Score the surface of the ham in a diamond pattern and stud with whole cloves.
  3. In a bowl, mix honey, brown sugar, Dijon mustard, ground cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg to create the glaze.
  4. Place the ham in a roasting pan and brush generously with the glaze.
  5. Bake for approximately 15-18 minutes per pound, basting every 30 minutes with the remaining glaze.
  6. Heat until the internal temperature reaches 140°F (60°C).
  7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with pineapple slices if desired.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes

creamy buttery mashed potatoes

Creamy Mashed Potatoes are a comforting classic that complements any Thanksgiving feast. This dish features tender, fluffy potatoes blended with rich cream, butter, and seasonings, creating a velvety texture that pairs perfectly with roasted meats and gravies. Easy to prepare, Creamy Mashed Potatoes are sure to become a favorite side dish on your holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Yukon Gold potatoes 3 pounds
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Heavy cream 1 cup
Milk 1/2 cup
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Garlic powder 1/2 teaspoon
Chives (optional) For garnish

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Peel and chop the Yukon Gold potatoes into equal-sized pieces.
  2. Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  3. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
  4. Add the butter, heavy cream, milk, salt, pepper, and garlic powder to the potatoes.
  5. Mash the potatoes using a potato masher or hand mixer until creamy and smooth.
  6. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm, garnished with chives if desired.
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Savory Stuffing

savory thanksgiving stuffing recipe

Savory Stuffing is a quintessential Thanksgiving side dish that brings together flavorful bread, aromatic herbs, and hearty ingredients, creating a delightful complement to turkey or ham. This dish is often a family favorite, as it absorbs the rich flavors of the drippings and adds a warm, comforting element to the holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Bread cubes (day-old or toasted) 10 cups
Unsalted butter 1/2 cup (1 stick)
Onion, chopped 1 large
Celery, chopped 2 stalks
Garlic, minced 2 cloves
Chicken or vegetable broth 2 cups
Fresh sage, chopped 2 tablespoons
Fresh thyme, chopped 1 tablespoon
Dried parsley 1 tablespoon
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Eggs 2, beaten

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then sauté the onions and celery until softened.
  3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  4. In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes, sautéed mixture, herbs, salt, and pepper, then gently mix in the broth and beaten eggs until well combined.
  5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish and cover with foil.
  6. Bake for 30 minutes, then uncover and bake for an additional 15 minutes, until golden brown on top.
  7. Serve warm alongside your Thanksgiving main dish.
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Green Bean Casserole

creamy green bean casserole

Green Bean Casserole is a classic Thanksgiving dish that features fresh green beans smothered in a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions. This comforting and savory side dish balances the rich flavors of the holiday meal, making it a staple on festive tables. Its creamy texture and satisfying crunch make it appealing to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh green beans 1 pound
Cream of mushroom soup 1 can (10.5 ounces)
Milk 1/2 cup
Soy sauce 1 tablespoon
Fried onions 1 1/3 cups
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Trim the ends of the green beans and blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes until tender-crisp; drain and set aside.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, black pepper, and salt.
  4. In a greased baking dish, mix the green beans with the soup mixture and half of the fried onions.
  5. Bake in the oven for 25 minutes, then top with the remaining fried onions.
  6. Bake for an additional 10 minutes until bubbly and golden brown.
  7. Serve warm as a delicious side dish on your Thanksgiving table.
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Cranberry Sauce With Orange Zest

cranberry orange sauce recipe

Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest is a delightful and vibrant addition to any Thanksgiving meal. This homemade sauce boasts the perfect balance of tart cranberry flavor enhanced by bright orange zest, creating a refreshing contrast to savory dishes. It’s easy to make and adds a festive touch to your holiday table while also serving as a delicious condiment for turkey and other roasted meats.

Ingredients Quantity
Fresh cranberries 12 ounces (1 bag)
Orange zest 1 tablespoon
Orange juice 1/2 cup
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Water 1/4 cup
Ground cinnamon 1/4 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Rinse the cranberries and remove any stems and blemished berries.
  2. In a saucepan, combine the cranberries, orange juice, water, granulated sugar, cinnamon, and ginger.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer.
  4. Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
  5. Stir in the orange zest and let the sauce cool to room temperature.
  6. Transfer to a serving dish and refrigerate until ready to serve. Enjoy!
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Sweet Potato Casserole

sweet potato casserole recipe

Sweet Potato Casserole is a classic Thanksgiving side dish that combines the natural sweetness of baked sweet potatoes with a rich, buttery topping, often featuring crunchy pecans or marshmallows. This comforting dish is beloved by many and adds a delightful caramelized flavor to the holiday feast, making it both festive and satisfying.

Ingredients Quantity
Sweet potatoes 4 large (about 2 pounds)
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Butter 1/4 cup (half a stick)
Milk 1/2 cup
Eggs 2 large
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon
Pecan halves (or marshmallows) 1 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes, then boil them in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash them in a large bowl.
  3. Stir in butter, sugar, milk, eggs, vanilla, cinnamon, and salt until well combined.
  4. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish.
  5. If using pecans, sprinkle them on top of the sweet potato mixture. If using marshmallows, add these in the last 10 minutes of baking for a melty topping.
  6. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through and lightly browned. Serve warm as a festive side dish!
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Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts

maple glazed brussels sprouts

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a delicious and festive side dish perfect for Thanksgiving. The combination of savory Brussels sprouts with the sweetness of maple syrup creates a delightful contrast that will elevate your holiday feast. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also brings a touch of elegance to the table, making it a favorite among holiday guests.

Ingredients Quantity
Brussels sprouts 1.5 pounds
Olive oil 2 tablespoons
Maple syrup 3 tablespoons
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/4 teaspoon
Balsamic vinegar 1 tablespoon (optional)
Chopped pecans (optional) 1/2 cup

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Trim the ends of the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Place them in a large mixing bowl.
  3. Drizzle olive oil and maple syrup over the Brussels sprouts, then season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
  4. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are crispy and caramelized.
  6. If using, drizzle with balsamic vinegar and sprinkle with chopped pecans before serving. Enjoy warm!
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Garlic and Parmesan Roasted Carrots

garlic parmesan roasted carrots

Garlic and Parmesan Roasted Carrots are a flavorful and vibrant side dish that add a colorful touch to your Thanksgiving table. The natural sweetness of the carrots is enhanced by roasting them until tender and caramelized, while the garlic and Parmesan cheese create a savory, aromatic finish that will have your guests coming back for more.

Ingredients Quantity
Carrots 2 pounds
Olive oil 3 tablespoons
Garlic, minced 4 cloves
Salt 1 teaspoon
Black pepper 1/2 teaspoon
Grated Parmesan cheese 1/2 cup
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. Peel and cut the carrots into uniform sticks or rounds to ensure even cooking. Place them in a large bowl.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil, add minced garlic, salt, and pepper, and toss to coat the carrots evenly.
  4. Spread the carrots out on a baking sheet in a single layer.
  5. Roast in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the carrots are tender and starting to caramelize.
  6. Remove from oven, sprinkle with grated Parmesan, and toss gently. Optionally, garnish with chopped parsley before serving. Serve warm!
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Cornbread Muffins

thanksgiving cornbread muffin recipe

Cornbread Muffins are a delightful and versatile addition to your Thanksgiving feast. These little golden treats are sweet, tender, and have a slightly crumbly texture that makes them perfect for soaking up gravy or enjoying with butter and honey. With their comforting flavor, cornbread muffins are a great side dish that will complement any holiday spread.

Ingredients Quantity
Cornmeal 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1 cup
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Baking powder 1 tablespoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Milk 1 cup
Eggs 2
Unsalted butter, melted 1/4 cup
Honey (optional) 2 tablespoons

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together cornmeal, flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
  3. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, eggs, and melted butter.
  4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined, avoiding overmixing.
  5. Spoon the batter into the prepared muffin tin, filling each cup about 2/3 full.
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until the muffins are golden and a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
  7. Allow to cool slightly before removing from the tin, and serve warm.

Pumpkin Pie

thanksgiving classic pumpkin pie

Pumpkin Pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert that embodies the flavors of the season. With its silky smooth filling flavored with aromatic spices, encased in a flaky crust, this pie is a beloved favorite at holiday gatherings. It’s the perfect way to end a festive meal and brings warmth and comfort to the table.

Ingredients Quantity
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 (9-inch)
Canned pumpkin puree 1 can (15 oz)
Granulated sugar 3/4 cup
Brown sugar 1/2 cup
Ground cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon
Ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon
Salt 1/2 teaspoon
Eggs 3
Heavy cream 1 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
  2. In a large bowl, mix together pumpkin puree, granulated sugar, brown sugar, spices, and salt until well combined.
  3. Whisk in the eggs until fully incorporated, then stir in the heavy cream and vanilla extract.
  4. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth the top.
  5. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce the oven temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set.
  6. Allow to cool before slicing and serving, optionally with whipped cream.

Pecan Pie

decadent southern pecan pie

Pecan Pie is a rich and indulgent dessert that has become a staple at Thanksgiving celebrations. With its buttery, caramel-like filling studded with crunchy pecans and nestled in a flaky pie crust, this decadent treat is perfect for satisfying sweet cravings and adds a touch of southern charm to the holiday table.

Ingredients Quantity
Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) 1 (9-inch)
Pecan halves 1 1/2 cups
Granulated sugar 1 cup
Brown sugar 1 cup
Corn syrup 1 cup
Eggs 3
Unsalted butter, melted 1/2 cup
Vanilla extract 1 teaspoon
Salt 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large bowl, whisk together the granulated sugar, brown sugar, corn syrup, beaten eggs, melted butter, vanilla extract, and salt until well combined.
  3. Stir in the pecan halves.
  4. Pour the filling into the prepared pie crust and smooth out.
  5. Bake for 60-70 minutes or until the filling is set and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  6. Allow to cool before serving. Enjoy warm or at room temperature, optionally with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream.

Apple Crisp

warm apple dessert delight

Apple Crisp is a comforting dessert that captures the essence of fall with its warm and juicy apple filling topped with a buttery, crunchy oat topping. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also showcases the natural sweetness of apples, making it a beloved favorite for Thanksgiving gatherings. Serve it warm, and don’t forget a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra special treat!

Ingredients Quantity
Apples (peeled, cored, sliced) 6 cups (about 6 apples)
Granulated sugar 1/2 cup
Brown sugar 1/4 cup
Cinnamon 1 teaspoon
Lemon juice 1 tablespoon
Oats 1 cup
All-purpose flour 1/2 cup
Unsalted butter, softened 1/2 cup
Salt 1/4 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, lemon juice, and salt. Toss until apples are well coated.
  3. Transfer the apple mixture into a greased baking dish.
  4. In a separate bowl, mix oats, flour, and softened butter until crumbly. Spread the mixture evenly over the apples.
  5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and the apples are tender.
  6. Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm with a scoop of ice cream, if desired.

Classic Dinner Rolls

fluffy thanksgiving dinner rolls

Classic Dinner Rolls are a quintessential part of any Thanksgiving feast, providing a soft and fluffy accompaniment to the main dishes. These freshly baked rolls are perfect for mopping up gravy or serving with butter, making them a crowd-pleaser at your holiday table. With a warm, golden exterior and light, airy texture, they are sure to elevate your Thanksgiving meal.

Ingredients Quantity
All-purpose flour 4 cups
Granulated sugar 1/4 cup
Active dry yeast 2 1/4 teaspoons
Milk (warm) 1 cup
Unsalted butter 1/4 cup (melted)
Eggs 2
Salt 1 teaspoon

Cooking Instructions:

  1. In a small bowl, mix warm milk with sugar and sprinkle yeast on top. Let it sit until frothy, about 5-10 minutes.
  2. In a large bowl, combine flour and salt. Add the yeast mixture, melted butter, and eggs, mixing until a dough forms.
  3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for about 6-8 minutes, until smooth. Place in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.
  4. Punch down the dough and divide into 12-15 equal pieces. Shape into rolls and place in a greased baking dish.
  5. Cover and let rise again until doubled, about 30-40 minutes. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  6. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden brown. Brush with melted butter before serving. Enjoy warm!

Spinach and Artichoke Dip

creamy spinach artichoke dip

Spinach and Artichoke Dip is a creamy and flavorful appetizer that is perfect for any Thanksgiving gathering. This crowd-pleasing dish combines tender spinach, tangy artichokes, and melted cheese, creating a delicious dip that pairs wonderfully with crisp tortilla chips or fresh vegetable sticks. It’s an ideal starter to kick off the festivities and will leave your guests clamoring for more.

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

Cooking Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine softened cream cheese, sour cream, and mayonnaise until smooth.
  3. Stir in chopped spinach, artichokes, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, shredded mozzarella, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
  6. Serve warm with tortilla chips or vegetable sticks. 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.