Classic Roast Turkey With Herb Butter
Classic roast turkey with herb butter is a timeless dish that embodies the spirit of Thanksgiving. It features a juicy, golden-brown turkey infused with a flavorful herb butter, ensuring each bite is succulent and aromatic. Ideal for nursing home celebrations, this recipe is easy to follow and provides a heartwarming meal for residents to enjoy together.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Whole turkey |
12-14 pounds |
| Unsalted butter |
1 cup (2 sticks) |
| Fresh parsley |
1/2 cup, chopped |
| Fresh rosemary |
2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Fresh thyme |
2 tablespoons, chopped |
| Garlic |
4 cloves, minced |
| Lemon |
1, zested and juiced |
| Salt |
2 tablespoons |
| Black pepper |
1 tablespoon |
| Vegetable broth |
2 cups |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F (163°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine softened butter, parsley, rosemary, thyme, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to create the herb butter.
- Carefully loosen the turkey skin over the breast and thighs, and spread the herb butter underneath evenly.
- Rub any remaining butter over the entire surface of the turkey and season with additional salt and pepper.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan breast side up, and pour vegetable broth into the bottom of the pan.
- Roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound, basting it occasionally with pan juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature, ensuring it reaches 165°F (74°C) in the thickest parts.
- Once done, remove the turkey from the oven, cover with foil, and let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Creamy Mashed Potatoes With Gravy
Creamy mashed potatoes with gravy is a comforting side dish that pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving feast, particularly in a nursing home setting. This dish features smooth, buttery potatoes enriched with cream and served with a rich, savory gravy that brings warmth and joy to the dining experience. Residents will savor each spoonful as they gather around the table to celebrate the holiday together.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Russet potatoes |
5 pounds |
| Unsalted butter |
1/2 cup |
| Heavy cream |
1 cup |
| Salt |
1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Garlic powder |
1 teaspoon |
| Chicken or vegetable broth |
1 cup (for gravy) |
| Cornstarch |
1 tablespoon (for thickening gravy) |
| Soy sauce |
1 tablespoon (for flavor) |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Peel and cut the potatoes into evenly sized chunks, then place them in a large pot of salted water.
- Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot; add butter, heavy cream, salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy, adjusting the seasoning if needed.
- In a separate saucepan, heat the broth and mix in cornstarch to thicken for gravy; add soy sauce for extra flavor.
- Serve the creamy mashed potatoes with hot gravy poured over the top, allowing residents to enjoy a classic Thanksgiving staple.
Savory Stuffing With Celery and Onions
Savory stuffing with celery and onions is a delightful and aromatic side dish that adds depth and flavor to any Thanksgiving meal, especially within nursing homes. This dish combines soft bread with sautéed vegetables and seasonings, creating a comforting companion to turkey and gravy. The inviting aroma and flavorful combination will surely put a smile on the residents’ faces as they enjoy this festive offering.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Bread cubes (day-old, white or whole wheat) |
10 cups |
| Celery, diced |
1 cup |
| Onion, diced |
1 large |
| Unsalted butter |
1/2 cup |
| Chicken or vegetable broth |
2 cups |
| Dried sage |
1 teaspoon |
| Dried thyme |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) |
1/4 cup |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the diced onions and celery until soft, about 5-7 minutes.
- In a large bowl, combine the bread cubes with the sautéed onions and celery, then add the broth gradually, mixing until evenly moistened.
- Stir in the dried sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy on top.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley, alongside the Thanksgiving meal.
Honey Glazed Carrots and Parsnips
Honey glazed carrots and parsnips are a sweet and vibrant side dish that adds color and flavor to any Thanksgiving table, making them an excellent choice for nursing home celebrations. The natural sweetness of these root vegetables is enhanced by a touch of honey and butter, creating a deliciously rich glaze that pairs perfectly with turkey and stuffing, while also appealing to the taste preferences of many residents.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Carrots, peeled and sliced |
4 cups |
| Parsnips, peeled and sliced |
4 cups |
| Unsalted butter |
1/4 cup |
| Honey |
1/4 cup |
| Salt |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Black pepper |
1/4 teaspoon |
| Fresh thyme, chopped (for garnish) |
1 tablespoon |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- In a large pot, bring water to a boil and add the sliced carrots and parsnips. Cook for 5-7 minutes until just tender, then drain.
- In the same pot, melt the butter over medium heat and stir in the honey, salt, and pepper.
- Add the cooked carrots and parsnips to the pot and toss to coat them in the honey-butter mixture.
- Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are glazed and heated through.
- Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme.
Green Bean Casserole With Crispy Onions
Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions is a classic Thanksgiving side dish that brings a delightful mix of flavors and textures to the table. This creamy, rich casserole features tender green beans smothered in a savory mushroom sauce, topped with crispy fried onions for an added crunch. It’s a favorite among many residents and is sure to evoke fond memories of holiday gatherings.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Fresh green beans, trimmed |
1 pound |
| Cream of mushroom soup |
2 cans (10.5 oz each) |
| Milk |
1/2 cup |
| Soy sauce |
1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper |
1/4 teaspoon |
| Crispy fried onions |
1 1/2 cups |
| Grated cheddar cheese (optional) |
1 cup |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large pot of boiling water, blanch the green beans for about 5 minutes until tender-crisp, then drain and set aside.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cream of mushroom soup, milk, soy sauce, and black pepper. Mix well.
- Add the blanched green beans to the soup mixture and stir to combine.
- Transfer the mixture to a greased casserole dish and bake for 25 minutes.
- Remove the casserole from the oven and stir in 1 cup of crispy fried onions, then top with the remaining onions.
- Bake for an additional 10 minutes until the onions are golden brown and crispy. Serve warm.
Cranberry Sauce With Orange Zest
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest is a vibrant and refreshing complement to any Thanksgiving meal. This tart and sweet sauce offers a burst of flavor from fresh cranberries balanced with the bright citrus notes of orange zest. It not only adds color to the table but also provides a delicious contrast to savory dishes, making it a perfect addition for nursing home residents who appreciate traditional holiday flavors.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Fresh cranberries |
12 ounces |
| Sugar |
1 cup |
| Water |
1 cup |
| Orange zest |
1 tablespoon |
| Orange juice |
1/2 cup |
| Cinnamon (optional) |
1/2 teaspoon |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Rinse the fresh cranberries and discard any damaged ones.
- In a saucepan, combine water, sugar, and orange juice over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves.
- Add the cranberries and orange zest, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries pop and the sauce thickens.
- Remove from heat, and if desired, stir in cinnamon for added warmth.
- Allow to cool before serving; the sauce will thicken further as it cools. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallow Topping
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow Topping is a delightful and comforting dish that brings warmth to any Thanksgiving gathering, especially in nursing homes. This casserole features a creamy and sweet filling made from mashed sweet potatoes, which is then topped with fluffy marshmallows that melt to create a deliciously gooey and sweet topping. It is a nostalgic favorite that residents will surely enjoy.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Sweet potatoes |
4 medium |
| Brown sugar |
1/2 cup |
| Butter |
1/4 cup |
| Milk |
1/2 cup |
| Vanilla extract |
1 teaspoon |
| Eggs |
2 large |
| Salt |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Mini marshmallows |
2 cups |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a baking dish.
- Boil sweet potatoes in a large pot until tender, then drain and peel them.
- In a mixing bowl, mash the sweet potatoes and mix in brown sugar, butter, milk, vanilla, eggs, and salt until smooth.
- Pour the sweet potato mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, then remove and sprinkle mini marshmallows on top.
- Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
- Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy the creamy, sweet goodness!
Butternut Squash Soup With Sage
Butternut Squash Soup with Sage is a warm and velvety dish perfect for Thanksgiving celebrations in nursing homes. This comforting soup combines the natural sweetness of butternut squash with aromatic sage, resulting in a rich and flavorful meal that is both nutritious and appealing to residents who may appreciate its smooth texture and gentle warmth.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Butternut squash |
2 medium |
| Onion |
1 large |
| Garlic |
2 cloves |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Vegetable broth |
4 cups |
| Fresh sage leaves |
1 tablespoon |
| Salt |
1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Heavy cream (optional) |
1/2 cup |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Cut the butternut squash in half, remove seeds, and place cut side down on the baking sheet; roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Scoop the roasted squash flesh into the pot, add vegetable broth, sage, salt, and pepper; bring to a simmer.
- Use an immersion blender or transfer to a blender to puree the soup until smooth.
- If desired, stir in heavy cream for added richness before serving. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors!
Pumpkin Pie With Whipped Cream
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream is a classic Thanksgiving dessert that brings warmth and joy to any gathering, especially in nursing homes. This delightful pie features a spiced pumpkin filling in a flaky crust, topped with a generous dollop of whipped cream. The smooth texture and familiar flavors make it a perfect treat for residents to enjoy during the holiday season.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Pie crust (store-bought or homemade) |
1 (9-inch) |
| Pumpkin puree |
1 can (15 oz) |
| Eggs |
2 |
| Sugar |
3/4 cup |
| Brown sugar |
1/2 cup |
| Cinnamon |
1 teaspoon |
| Nutmeg |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Ginger |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Salt |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Evaporated milk |
1 can (12 oz) |
| Heavy cream |
1 cup (for whipped cream) |
| Powdered sugar |
2 tablespoons (for whipped cream) |
| Vanilla extract |
1 teaspoon (for whipped cream) |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine pumpkin puree, eggs, sugars, spices, salt, and evaporated milk; mix until smooth.
- Pour the pumpkin mixture into the prepared pie crust.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and continue baking for another 40-50 minutes until set.
- While the pie is cooling, whip heavy cream with powdered sugar and vanilla until soft peaks form.
- Serve slices of the pumpkin pie topped with whipped cream. Enjoy this festive dessert!
Apple Crisp With Oat Topping
Apple Crisp with Oat Topping is a warm and comforting dessert that is perfect for celebrating Thanksgiving in nursing homes. This delightful dish features tender baked apples layered with a crunchy oat topping, offering a delicious combination of sweet and tart flavors. It’s a great way to bring seasonal produce into a comforting treat that residents will surely enjoy.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Apples (peeled and sliced) |
6 cups |
| Granulated sugar |
1/2 cup |
| Brown sugar |
1/4 cup |
| Cinnamon |
1 teaspoon |
| Lemon juice |
1 tablespoon |
| Rolled oats |
1 cup |
| All-purpose flour |
1/2 cup |
| Unsalted butter (melted) |
1/2 cup |
| Salt |
1/4 teaspoon |
| Vanilla extract |
1 teaspoon |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, toss sliced apples with granulated sugar, brown sugar, cinnamon, and lemon juice; spread evenly in a baking dish.
- In another bowl, combine rolled oats, flour, melted butter, salt, and vanilla; mix until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat mixture evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes until the topping is golden and the apples are tender.
- Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy this warm dessert!
Spinach and Artichoke Dip With Crackers
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Frozen chopped spinach (thawed) |
1 (10 oz) package |
| Canned artichoke hearts (drained and chopped) |
1 (14 oz) can |
| Cream cheese |
1 (8 oz) package |
| Mayonnaise |
1/2 cup |
| Sour cream |
1/2 cup |
| Shredded mozzarella cheese |
1 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese |
1/2 cup |
| Garlic powder |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Pepper |
1/4 teaspoon |
| Crackers (for serving) |
As needed |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a mixing bowl, combine the spinach, artichoke hearts, cream cheese, mayonnaise, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well blended.
- Spread the mixture into a baking dish.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes until hot and bubbly, and the top is lightly golden.
- Serve warm with a variety of crackers for dipping. Enjoy this delicious appetizer!
Cornbread Muffins With Honey Butter
Cornbread muffins are a beloved dish, particularly around Thanksgiving, as they bring a hint of sweetness and a comforting texture to the table. These cornbread muffins, served warm with honey butter, are easy to prepare and can be a delightful addition to any nursing home holiday celebration, providing warmth and nostalgia with every bite.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Cornmeal |
1 cup |
| All-purpose flour |
1 cup |
| Baking powder |
1 tablespoon |
| Sugar |
1/4 cup |
| Salt |
1/2 teaspoon |
| Milk |
1 cup |
| Eggs |
2 large |
| Vegetable oil |
1/4 cup |
| Honey (for honey butter) |
1/4 cup |
| Softened butter (for honey butter) |
1/2 cup |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a muffin tin or line it with muffin liners.
- In a bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, sugar, and salt.
- In another bowl, mix the milk, eggs, and vegetable oil until combined.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just mixed.
- Fill each muffin cup about two-thirds full with batter and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
- While the muffins are baking, mix softened butter and honey in a small bowl to create the honey butter.
- Let the muffins cool slightly before serving warm with honey butter. Enjoy!
Pecan Pie Bars With a Shortbread Crust
Pecan pie bars with a shortbread crust are a scrumptious dessert ideal for Thanksgiving celebrations in nursing homes. These bars combine the classic flavors of pecan pie in a convenient, easy-to-serve format that is perfect for residents to enjoy. With a buttery, crumbly crust and a rich, gooey pecan filling, they are sure to bring smiles and warmth to the holiday season.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Unsalted butter |
1 cup |
| Granulated sugar |
1/2 cup |
| All-purpose flour |
1 3/4 cups |
| Brown sugar |
1 cup |
| Eggs |
2 large |
| Corn syrup |
1 cup |
| Vanilla extract |
1 teaspoon |
| Salt |
1/4 teaspoon |
| Chopped pecans |
1 1/2 cups |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease an 8×8 inch baking pan.
- In a bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy.
- Gradually mix in flour until it forms a dough. Press the dough into the bottom of the prepared baking pan to create a crust.
- Bake crust for about 15-20 minutes or until lightly golden.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together brown sugar, eggs, corn syrup, vanilla extract, and salt until smooth. Stir in chopped pecans.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the baked crust, spreading it evenly.
- Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until the filling is set.
- Let cool completely before cutting into bars and serving. Enjoy!
Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze are a delicious and nutritious side dish that adds vibrant flavor and an appealing presentation to Thanksgiving meals in nursing homes. This dish is easy to prepare and ensures residents enjoy a perfect balance of tenderness and caramelization, all enhanced by a sweet and tangy balsamic glaze.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Brussels sprouts |
1 ½ pounds |
| Olive oil |
2 tablespoons |
| Salt |
½ teaspoon |
| Black pepper |
¼ teaspoon |
| Balsamic vinegar |
¼ cup |
| Honey |
1 tablespoon |
| Garlic (minced) |
2 cloves |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Trim and halve the Brussels sprouts, then place them in a mixing bowl.
- Drizzle olive oil over the Brussels sprouts, and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the Brussels sprouts on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and tender, flipping halfway through.
- In a small saucepan, combine balsamic vinegar and honey, and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Allow it to reduce for about 5 minutes until it thickens.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts before serving. Enjoy!
Holiday Fruit Salad With a Citrus Dressing
Holiday fruit salad with a citrus dressing is a refreshing and colorful dish that brings a burst of flavor to any Thanksgiving meal in nursing homes. It combines a variety of seasonal fruits, providing not only a visual appeal but also a nutritious option for residents to enjoy. The zesty citrus dressing enhances the natural sweetness of the fruit, making this salad a delightful complement to the Thanksgiving spread.
| Ingredients |
Quantity |
| Mixed seasonal fruit |
6 cups (e.g., apples, pears, grapes, oranges) |
| Orange juice |
¼ cup |
| Lemon juice |
2 tablespoons |
| Honey |
1 tablespoon |
| Fresh mint leaves |
1 tablespoon (chopped) |
Cooking Steps Instructions
- Prepare the mixed seasonal fruit by washing, peeling, and cutting them into bite-sized pieces as needed.
- In a small bowl, whisk together the orange juice, lemon juice, and honey until well combined to create the citrus dressing.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the prepared fruit and drizzle the citrus dressing over it.
- Gently toss the fruit to coat it evenly with the dressing, then sprinkle with chopped fresh mint.
- Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes before serving for enhanced flavor. Enjoy!
