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Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with family and friends and share a delicious meal filled with comfort and tradition. Crafting the ideal Thanksgiving menu can be both exciting and daunting, with so many options to consider. Whether you want to stick with classic dishes or experiment with new flavors, there’s something for everyone. In this article, we’ve compiled 20 Thanksgiving menu ideas that cover all the bases—from savory mains to indulgent desserts. These dishes will help you create a memorable, satisfying feast for everyone at your table.
20 Thanksgiving Menu Ideas
Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Nothing says Thanksgiving like a juicy roast turkey. Basting the turkey with herb-infused butter helps to create a crispy, golden-brown skin while keeping the meat flavorful and moist. Complement the turkey with classic gravy made from its drippings.
Honey-Glazed Ham
A tender ham coated in a sticky, sweet honey glaze provides a delicious alternative or addition to turkey. The honey caramelizes on the surface, creating a beautiful contrast with the savory, salty meat beneath.
Stuffing with Sausage and Sage
Upgrade your stuffing with crumbled sausage and fresh sage. The sausage adds richness, while the herbs bring out a fragrant, earthy flavor. Use crusty bread cubes to soak up all the savory juices.
Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Elevate classic cranberry sauce by adding fresh orange zest for a hint of citrus. This sweet and tangy side pairs perfectly with savory meats, balancing out the richness of the main course.
Mashed Potatoes with Garlic and Parmesan
Add a flavor twist to traditional mashed potatoes by incorporating roasted garlic and a sprinkling of Parmesan cheese. The creamy texture and garlicky undertones make this a crowd-pleaser.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
This nostalgic favorite combines mashed sweet potatoes with brown sugar and cinnamon, topped with toasted marshmallows for a delightful mix of sweet and savory.
Green Bean Almondine
A simple yet elegant side dish featuring tender green beans tossed with toasted almonds, lemon juice, and butter. It offers a light and crunchy contrast to heavier dishes.
Butternut Squash Soup
Smooth and velvety, this soup is made from roasted butternut squash, blended with cream and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. It makes an excellent starter to the Thanksgiving feast.
Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread adds a Southern twist to traditional stuffing. Combined with onions, celery, and sage, it creates a slightly sweet, crumbly side that pairs well with turkey.
Mac and Cheese
Rich and creamy, this baked mac and cheese features sharp cheddar and Gruyère for a decadent addition to your menu, perfect for kids and adults alike.
Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
Roasted Brussels sprouts caramelize in the oven, paired with crispy bacon for a smoky, savory finish. Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor.
Gravy with Giblets
Use the turkey’s giblets and drippings to make a deeply flavorful gravy, perfect for pouring over mashed potatoes and stuffing.
Pumpkin Pie
The quintessential Thanksgiving dessert, pumpkin pie is spiced with cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg. Serve with whipped cream for the perfect finish.
Pecan Pie
This Southern favorite is rich and sweet, featuring a caramel-like filling with crunchy pecans on top. It’s the perfect dessert for those who want something more indulgent.
Apple Crisp
Warm, cinnamon-spiced apples baked under a crunchy oat topping. This dessert is easier to make than pie but just as satisfying.
Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze
Roasted carrots develop a natural sweetness in the oven, enhanced by a honey glaze. The caramelization brings out their deep flavors, making them a versatile side.
Cheddar Biscuits
These flaky, buttery biscuits feature sharp cheddar and a hint of garlic. Perfect for soaking up gravy or as a side for any dish.
Roasted Root Vegetables
A hearty mix of carrots, parsnips, and beets roasted with olive oil and herbs. These vegetables become caramelized and tender, adding depth to your menu.
Creamed Spinach
Rich and velvety, creamed spinach adds a creamy texture and earthy flavor to the meal, balancing the heavier dishes.
Cranberry Apple Salad
A fresh, light salad with crunchy apples, dried cranberries, and toasted walnuts, dressed in a tangy vinaigrette. This dish adds brightness to your Thanksgiving spread.
Thanksgiving is a time to come together and celebrate with loved ones, and the meal is often the highlight of the day. These 20 menu ideas offer a balanced mix of classic and contemporary dishes, ensuring your table has something for everyone. Whether you’re keeping it traditional or adding modern twists, these dishes will help make your Thanksgiving feast memorable.
