Best 20 Thanksgiving Recipes for a Traditional Holiday Meal

12 Nov 2025

Best 20 Thanksgiving Recipes for a Traditional Holiday Meal

Thanksgiving is all about comfort, family, and those traditional recipes that we look forward to all year long! If you’re planning out that Thanksgiving menu, each of these recipes will give you ideas and suggestions to add to your menu!

These are the Best Thanksgiving Recipes for a Traditional Holiday Meal, complete with familiar favorites like Sourdough Stuffing, Green Bean Casserole, and Smoked Turkey, along with some delicious desserts like Pecan Rum Cake and Pumpkin Cupcakes.

herb stuffing

How many food choices do you need for Thanksgiving Dinner?

pecan rum cake

If you are feeding more than 10 people, this is a great guide to keep in mind as you plan your menu.

  • 1-2 Main Dishes such as Turkey and Ham
  • 6-8 Side Items such as Macaroni, Mashed Potatoes, Corn, and Stuffing
  • 3-4 Dessert Items such as Pecan Pie or Pumpkin Pie
  • 2-3 Drink Choices such as Tea, Lemonade, and Water

If you need Pellet Grill Recipes, check out these Thanksgiving Pellet Grill Recipes, and for Ninja Foodi, check out these Ninja Foodi Thanksgiving Recipes.

Quick Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving Dinner:

  • Plan the menu and the grocery list.
  • Have guests bring a side or dessert to take some of the cooking off you’re plate!
  • Prep the sides and desserts ahead of time, which includes foods like broccoli salad or refrigerator mashed potatoes. Pies are the best thing to make in advance, as they taste even better when they’re chilled.
  • Set the table in the morning, or have a child take over the table setting.
  • Don’t forget to-go containers, if you do not want to be stuck with loads of leftovers, let guests take food home, or prepare to store food to use in other meals throughout the week.

These are the Best Thanksgiving Recipes for a Traditional Holiday Meal, and they ALWAYS show up on our table every single year. They are loved by all. The best part, though, is spending that quality time with family and friends.

20 Thanksgiving Recipes for a Traditional Holiday Meal: