34 Insanely Good Thanksgiving Recipes to Try This Year

Your Thanksgiving Table Starts Here

Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table, enjoying comforting food, and making the kind of memories that last long after dinner is over.

But planning a big Thanksgiving menu can feel overwhelming. So we rounded up 34 easy Thanksgiving recipes from Savor & Nest—from cozy casseroles and flavorful sides to crowd-pleasing appetizers, hearty mains, and fall-inspired desserts.

Whether you’re keeping your Thanksgiving dinner traditional or adding a few new favorites to the menu, these recipes make it easy to build a delicious holiday spread without spending the entire day in the kitchen.

1. The Perfect Juicy Homemade Turkey Burgers

These juicy homemade turkey burgers are a simple way to bring turkey to the table without committing to roasting a whole bird. They’re flavorful, satisfying, and a fun alternative for a smaller Thanksgiving gathering.

Perfect for: A smaller Thanksgiving dinner or an easy turkey alternative.

1
The Perfect Juicy Homemade Turkey Burgers
These turkey burgers are simple to prepare and deliver great flavor with minimal effort. Made with lean ground turkey and a handful of pantry staples, the patties cook up tender, flavorful, and satisfying.
Check out this recipe

2. Greek-Style Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes

Tender chicken and golden potatoes make this a hearty, comforting main dish with plenty of garlic-butter flavor. It has the cozy feel of a holiday dinner while keeping the preparation manageable.

Perfect for: A casual Thanksgiving dinner with family.

2
Greek-Style Garlic Butter Chicken & Potatoes
A one-pan chicken dinner loaded with oregano, roasted lemon, garlic, buttery potatoes, feta, herbs, and briny olives. The potatoes get a head start in the oven before the seasoned chicken joins them, allowing everything to finish together on a single sheet pan. A punchy herb-and-olive dressing made with the roasted garlic and lemon is spooned over the finished dish.
Check out this recipe

3. Chicken and Stuffing Bake

Chicken and stuffing are already a perfect comfort-food combination, and this easy bake brings them together in one cozy dish. It’s especially handy when you want those classic Thanksgiving flavors without preparing a whole turkey.

Perfect for: A smaller holiday meal or an easy Thanksgiving dinner.

3
Chicken and Stuffing Bake
A simple baked chicken casserole topped with savory stuffing and a creamy chicken-soup layer. Everything is assembled in one 9×13-inch dish, covered for the first part of baking, then finished uncovered so the stuffing can brown.
Check out this recipe

4. Easy One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli

This colorful one-pan dinner combines roasted chicken with sweet potatoes and broccoli for a complete meal with minimal cleanup. It’s a great choice when you want something hearty but don’t want a complicated Thanksgiving menu.

Perfect for: A simple family Thanksgiving.

4
Easy One-Pan Roasted Chicken with Sweet Potatoes & Broccoli
This simple sheet-pan dinner brings together juicy chicken, tender sweet potatoes, and roasted broccoli for a balanced, flavorful meal. Everything cooks on one pan, making cleanup easy and leftovers perfect for prepping meals ahead of time.
Check out this recipe

5. Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Creamy mashed potatoes get an extra boost of flavor from roasted garlic, making them exactly the kind of comforting side everyone expects at Thanksgiving. They’re also perfect for soaking up plenty of gravy.

Perfect for: The classic Thanksgiving dinner table.

5
Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes
These creamy, buttery mashed potatoes with roasted garlic will become a go-to side dish! Made with simple, everyday ingredients, they deliver rich flavor in every bite.
Check out this recipe

6. Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecan Streusel

Creamy sweet potatoes, buttery pecan streusel, and golden marshmallows come together in this cozy holiday favorite. It has all the nostalgic flavors you want from a Thanksgiving side while looking impressive on the table.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving side dishes and holiday potlucks.

6
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows and Pecan Streusel
Creamy mashed sweet potatoes are baked beneath a layer of buttery brown sugar and pecan streusel, then finished with mini marshmallows that turn soft and golden in the oven. The combination gives you a smooth, rich filling with a crisp, nutty topping and a toasted marshmallow finish.
Check out this recipe

7. Creamy Cornbread Casserole

This creamy cornbread casserole is soft, comforting, and easy to serve alongside turkey and all your favorite Thanksgiving sides. It’s the kind of cozy casserole that disappears quickly once it hits the table.

Perfect for: A cozy Thanksgiving dinner.

7
Creamy Cornbread Casserole
A simple baked corn side dish with a soft, creamy center and a lightly browned top. Everything comes together in one bowl before going into the oven, making it an easy option for family meals, potlucks, or holiday dinners.
Check out this recipe

8. Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole

Thinly sliced potatoes baked in a creamy, cheesy sauce make this casserole a serious holiday crowd-pleaser. It’s rich, comforting, and an easy way to make your Thanksgiving sides feel extra special.

Perfect for: Potato lovers and big family dinners.

8
Creamy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes Casserole
Creamy, rich, and packed with layers of tender potatoes, savory caramelized onions, and melted cheese, this comforting casserole is a wonderful addition to holiday dinners or cozy family meals. Gruyère adds a nutty depth while cheddar creates a beautifully golden topping.
Check out this recipe

9. Buttery Garlic Green Beans

Fresh green beans tossed with buttery garlic flavor are an easy way to add a vegetable side to your Thanksgiving menu. They’re simple enough for busy cooks but still feel right at home on a holiday table.

Perfect for: Easy Thanksgiving vegetable sides.

9
Buttery Garlic Green Beans
Fresh green beans cooked until just tender, then coated with melted butter and fragrant garlic. A touch of lemon-pepper seasoning gives the finished beans a bright, savory flavor. This quick side dish takes only 15 minutes from start to finish.
Check out this recipe

10. Oven-Roasted Sweet Potatoes

If you prefer your sweet potatoes simple, these oven-roasted sweet potatoes are a delicious option. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness while giving the edges a beautifully caramelized finish.

Perfect for: An easy Thanksgiving side dish.

10
Oven-Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Golden around the edges and tender in the center, these roasted sweet potatoes make an easy, versatile side dish. Choose the simple brown-sugar version for a touch of sweetness, or use the savory seasoning blend for a warmer, spiced finish.
Check out this recipe

11. Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing

Add something fresh and crunchy to the Thanksgiving spread with this colorful broccoli salad. The sweet-tangy dressing gives the vegetables plenty of flavor and provides a nice contrast to richer holiday dishes.

Perfect for: Balancing a rich Thanksgiving menu.

11
Crunchy Broccoli Salad with Honey Mustard Dressing
This fresh broccoli salad is all about contrast—crisp vegetables, smoky turkey bacon, sweet cranberries, and crunchy seeds—finished with a bright honey mustard dressing made without mayonnaise. It’s quick to assemble and works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for potlucks.
Check out this recipe

12. The Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad

Fresh cucumbers and juicy tomatoes bring a bright, refreshing element to the holiday table. It’s a simple salad to have on hand when you want something crisp alongside creamy casseroles and hearty mains.

Perfect for: A lighter Thanksgiving side.

12
The Perfect Cucumber Tomato Salad
This crisp cucumber and tomato salad is tossed with red onion, fresh herbs, and a tangy homemade vinaigrette. It’s quick to prepare, refreshing, and perfect as a light side dish.
Check out this recipe

13. Crisp Asian-Style Cucumber Salad

This crisp cucumber salad offers something a little different from traditional Thanksgiving sides. It’s fresh, crunchy, and full of punchy flavor, making it a great addition to a table filled with rich comfort foods.

Perfect for: Adding a fresh twist to Thanksgiving dinner.

13
Crisp Asian-Style Cucumber Salad
This light and crunchy cucumber salad delivers bright, savory flavor with a balance of tangy rice vinegar, nutty sesame oil, fresh ginger, and garlic. It’s cooling, refreshing, and easy to pair with rice bowls, grilled vegetables, or noodle dishes.
Check out this recipe

14. Easy Classic Homemade Spanish Rice

This homemade Spanish rice is flavorful, hearty, and easy to prepare, making it an unexpected but delicious addition to a holiday spread. It’s especially useful if you’re planning a Thanksgiving menu with a little more variety.

Perfect for: A Thanksgiving menu with a flavorful twist.

14
Easy Classic Homemade Spanish Rice
This flavorful Spanish rice is an easy, satisfying side dish that pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, burritos, fajitas, or any Tex-Mex or Mexican-inspired meal.
Check out this recipe

15. Simple Homemade Mexican Rice

Warm spices, vegetables, and tomato flavor make this simple rice dish a comforting addition to the table. It’s an easy side when you want to move beyond the usual Thanksgiving potato dishes.

Perfect for: A relaxed, family-style Thanksgiving.

15
Simple Homemade Mexican Rice
This straightforward Mexican rice transforms plain white rice into a colorful, savory side dish with minimal effort. It’s packed with warm spices, vegetables, and tomato flavor, making it perfect alongside tacos, enchiladas, or grilled proteins.
Check out this recipe

16. Cilantro Lime Rice

Bright cilantro and fresh lime make this rice a lighter, more vibrant side option. It’s a great way to add color and fresh flavor to a Thanksgiving dinner.

Perfect for: A non-traditional Thanksgiving menu.

16
Fat Simple Cilantro Lime Rice (Chipotle-Style)
This bright, herb-packed rice is infused with citrusy lime and fresh cilantro for a bold, refreshing flavor. Making it at home means you can fine-tune the seasoning exactly to your taste.
Check out this recipe

17. Buffalo Chicken Dip

Every holiday gathering needs something to snack on before the main meal, and this creamy Buffalo chicken dip is made for sharing. It’s rich, flavorful, and perfect with crackers, chips, or fresh vegetables.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving appetizers and game-day-style snacking.

17
Buffalo Chicken Dip – The MVP of Every Party!
If there’s one thing that always gets devoured at every party, it’s Buffalo Chicken Dip. Creamy, spicy, cheesy, and packed with that Buffalo wing flavor—this dip is basically a touchdown in a bowl. Whether it's game day, a potluck, or just a random Tuesday craving, this dip will have everyone hovering over the bowl with chips in hand!
Check out this recipe

18. Easy Oven-Baked Italian Meatballs

These oven-baked Italian meatballs make an easy appetizer that guests can grab while they wait for dinner. They’re warm, savory, and especially convenient for feeding a crowd.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving appetizers for a crowd.

18
Easy Oven-Baked Italian Meatballs
These baked Italian meatballs deliver big comfort with minimal effort. Made with pantry staples and baked instead of fried, they come out tender, flavorful, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep.
Check out this recipe

19. The Best Swedish Meatballs

Creamy, comforting Swedish meatballs are another delicious option for the appetizer table. They’re hearty enough to satisfy hungry guests without stealing the spotlight from dinner.

Perfect for: Holiday parties and Thanksgiving finger foods.

19
The Best Swedish Meatballs Recipe
These classic Swedish-style meatballs are juicy, well-seasoned, and cooked until golden, then finished in a rich, creamy gravy with just the right balance of savory and tangy flavors.
Check out this recipe

20. Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs

For something a little different, these coconut curry chicken meatballs bring warm, aromatic flavors to your appetizer spread. They’re a fun way to give your Thanksgiving menu a little international flair.

Perfect for: Guests who love trying something new.

20
Coconut Curry Chicken Meatballs
These tender and flavorful Thai chicken meatballs, simmered in a creamy coconut curry sauce, make a nourishing and satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Check out this recipe

21. One-Pan Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Orzo

Tender chicken meatballs paired with creamy Parmesan orzo make this dish feel like serious comfort food. It can work as a hearty main or a substantial dish for a more casual Thanksgiving gathering.

Perfect for: A cozy Thanksgiving dinner.

21
One-Pan Chicken Meatballs with Creamy Parmesan Orzo
A comforting skillet meal made with tender chicken meatballs and orzo simmered in a rich, garlicky Parmesan sauce. Everything cooks in one pan, making this a convenient weeknight dinner that’s ready in about 45 minutes.
Check out this recipe

22. Crispy Popcorn Chicken

Crispy bite-sized chicken is always a hit with a crowd, especially when there are kids around the table. Serve it as an appetizer or casual starter alongside your favorite dipping sauces.

Perfect for: Family-friendly Thanksgiving gatherings.

22
Crispy Popcorn Chicken
Craving a crunchy, bite-sized snack that’s full of flavor and made with simple ingredients? This homemade Popcorn Chicken hits all the right notes! Whether you bake, air fry, or deep fry, you’ll get a deliciously crispy coating with a juicy, tender inside.
Check out this recipe

23. Air Fryer Chicken Tenders

These air fryer chicken tenders are an easy option when you need something quick and crowd-friendly. Since they’re made without breading, they can also be a lighter choice for a holiday appetizer spread.

Perfect for: Kids’ Thanksgiving tables and easy appetizers.

23
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders (No Breading)
Craving crispy, juicy chicken tenders without the hassle of breading? This easy air fryer recipe is the perfect solution! With just a few simple ingredients, you'll have flavorful, perfectly cooked chicken tenders in under 30 minutes—no frying or breading required!
Check out this recipe

24. Crispy Toasted Ravioli

Crispy toasted ravioli turns a simple pasta favorite into a fun finger food. Serve these golden bites with marinara for an appetizer that guests can easily snack on before dinner.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving finger food ideas.

24
Crispy Toasted Ravioli
Golden on the outside and tender and cheesy or savory inside, these crispy ravioli make an easy appetizer or snack. Frozen ravioli are coated in an egg mixture and seasoned breadcrumbs, then fried until crisp and served hot with marinara sauce.
Check out this recipe

25. Creamy Mushroom Ravioli

Creamy mushroom ravioli is rich, cozy, and perfect for cooler-weather entertaining. It can make a beautiful meatless main dish or a comforting addition to a Thanksgiving menu.

Perfect for: A vegetarian-friendly Thanksgiving option.

25
Creamy Mushroom Ravioli with Asiago and Parmesan
Tender ravioli and browned mushrooms are paired with a smooth, savory cream sauce made with chicken broth, garlic, herbs, Asiago, and Parmesan.
Check out this recipe

26. Easy Fudgy 5-Ingredient Brownies

You don’t need a complicated dessert to finish Thanksgiving dinner. These fudgy brownies are simple, rich, and chocolatey enough to satisfy anyone who wants something besides pie.

Perfect for: Easy Thanksgiving desserts.

26
Easy Fudgy 5-Ingredient Brownies
These rich, dense brownies deliver a deep chocolate flavor with a soft, gooey center and a delicate crackled top.
Check out this recipe

27. Mini Pumpkin Pies

Mini pumpkin pies bring one of the most-loved fall flavors to the Thanksgiving table in a fun individual format. They’re easy to serve and make a great addition to a dessert spread.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving desserts and individual treats.

27
Mini Pumpkin Pies
These bite-sized pumpkin pies deliver all the classic fall flavor you love in a perfectly portable dessert. Baked in a standard muffin pan, they're simple to make and ideal for holiday gatherings, dessert platters, or anytime you want individual servings of pumpkin pie. A dollop of whipped cream on top makes them even more irresistible.
Check out this recipe

28. Pumpkin Roll

A soft pumpkin cake rolled around a creamy filling makes this pumpkin roll a beautiful centerpiece for your dessert table. It has all those cozy fall flavors everyone looks forward to this time of year.

Perfect for: A Thanksgiving dessert table.

28
Pumpkin Roll
This classic Pumpkin Roll features a light, tender pumpkin sponge wrapped around a rich and creamy cream cheese filling. With a simple rolling technique and plenty of warm fall flavor, it's an elegant dessert that's surprisingly easy to prepare.
Check out this recipe

29. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Soft pumpkin cookies with chocolate chips are an easy treat to make ahead for the holiday. They’re perfect for guests who want a small sweet bite after a big Thanksgiving dinner.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving treats and cookie platters.

29
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies, Best Fall Cookies
Soft, cake-like pumpkin cookies loaded with warm fall spices and plenty of rich semi-sweet chocolate chips. These easy cookies come together quickly and bake into tender treats that are perfect for autumn gatherings, holiday dessert trays, or an afternoon snack.
Check out this recipe

30. Pumpkin Bundt Cake

This pumpkin Bundt cake brings classic fall flavor in a beautiful, shareable cake. It’s a great alternative if you want something festive without making another pie.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving cakes and fall dessert tables.

30
Pumpkin Bundt Cake
Check out this recipe

31. Crock Pot Apple Crisp

Warm apples and a cozy crisp topping make this Crock Pot apple crisp an easy fall dessert for a crowd. Let the slow cooker do the work while you focus on the rest of Thanksgiving dinner.

Perfect for: Easy Thanksgiving desserts.

31
Crock Pot Apple Crisp
This Slow Cooker Apple Crisp is an easy dessert that fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of cinnamon and baked apples. Tender apple slices cook gently beneath a buttery oat crumble, creating a warm, cozy treat that's perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or whenever you're craving a simple homemade dessert. Add a scoop of vanilla ice cream for an extra-special finishing touch.
Check out this recipe

32. Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs

These little apple pie-inspired treats pack all the cozy flavors of apple pie into a fun, bite-sized dessert. They’re especially good when you want something easy to grab and enjoy.

Perfect for: Thanksgiving finger-food desserts.

32
Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs
These Air Fryer Apple Pie Bombs are bite-sized apple-filled treats with a crisp golden exterior and a warm, cinnamon-spiced center. They're quick to make and taste best served fresh while still warm, with a buttery cinnamon-sugar coating on every bite.
Check out this recipe

33. Apple Cinnamon Bread

Warm apple and cinnamon flavors make this bread a cozy addition to any fall dessert table. Slice it up and serve it as a simple after-dinner treat with coffee or tea.

Perfect for: Fall baking and Thanksgiving brunch.

33
Apple Cinnamon Bread
Packed with tender apple pieces and warm baking spices, this Apple Cinnamon Quick Bread is soft, rich, and wonderfully moist with a texture that's somewhere between a loaf cake and classic quick bread. Every slice features a delicious cinnamon apple layer swirled through the center. Both tart and sweet apples work well, but choose varieties that stay firm while baking. You can also use the same batter to make muffins or mini loaves—see the notes for details.
Check out this recipe

34. Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding

Creamy old-fashioned rice pudding is a comforting dessert that feels nostalgic and homemade. It’s a lovely option when you want to finish the Thanksgiving meal with something simple rather than another rich pie.

Perfect for: A cozy, old-fashioned Thanksgiving dessert.

34
Old-Fashioned Rice Pudding
This simple, comforting dessert comes together on the stove using already-cooked rice. Whole milk, a touch of sugar, and a beaten egg create a silky base, while butter and vanilla added at the end bring everything together with a warm, cozy flavor.
Check out this recipe

Your Thanksgiving Table Starts Here

From Thanksgiving side dishes and sweet potato recipes to easy appetizers, comforting casseroles, turkey-inspired mains, pumpkin desserts, and apple treats, this list gives you plenty of ways to build a holiday menu around the recipes already on Savor & Nest.

 

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