Roast Turkey: The centerpiece of most Thanksgiving feasts. You can choose various recipes for the turkey, such as herb-roasted, brined, or even deep-fried. Make sure to prepare a tasty gravy to accompany it.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and smooth mashed potatoes are a staple. Add butter, cream, garlic, or herbs to elevate the flavor.
Stuffing or Dressing: A mix of bread, herbs, onions, celery, and sometimes sausage, baked to perfection inside or outside the turkey.
Cranberry Sauce: Sweet-tart cranberry sauce adds a burst of flavor to the meal. You can make it from fresh cranberries or use other variations like adding orange zest, cinnamon, or ginger.
Gravy: A good gravy made from the turkey drippings or broth, thickened with flour or cornstarch, enhances the flavors of the meal.
Sweet Potatoes or Yams: Whether mashed, baked, or in a casserole topped with marshmallows or pecans, sweet potatoes are a delicious addition to the table.
Green Bean Casserole: A comforting dish made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions.
Pumpkin Pie: A classic dessert for Thanksgiving. The smooth and spiced pumpkin filling in a flaky crust topped with whipped cream is irresistible.
Other Desserts: Consider offering a variety of desserts like pecan pie, apple pie, or even cheesecake to cater to everyone’s tastes.
Vegetarian/Vegan Options: To accommodate different dietary preferences, you might want to include options like roasted vegetables, stuffed squash, lentil loaf, or vegetarian gravy.