Thanksgiving is a holiday that celebrates food, family, and gratitude. While turkey is often the star, there are so many other dishes that can make your dinner table shine.
From hearty roasts to cheesy casseroles and fresh seasonal salads, the options are endless. A good Thanksgiving spread balances rich comfort foods with lighter, colorful choices.
The best part is that many recipes are simple to prepare and can be made ahead, reducing stress on the big day. Whether you love sticking with classics or want to try something creative, this list of 33 recipes has something for everyone.
Each dish is tasty, festive, and perfect for sharing with loved ones. These recipes will help you create a dinner that feels special, warm, and unforgettable.
1. Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
Roast turkey with herb butter is the classic Thanksgiving centerpiece. Butter mixed with garlic and herbs is spread under the skin, keeping the meat juicy and flavorful. Roasted until golden brown, it’s simple yet impressive.
This dish pairs beautifully with stuffing, potatoes, and gravy. A true holiday staple that brings family and friends together around the table for a comforting meal.
2. Beef Tenderloin Roast
Beef tenderloin roast is elegant, juicy, and flavorful. Seasoned with herbs and seared before roasting, it’s cooked until tender and melt-in-your-mouth. This dish is perfect for families who want something different from turkey.
It pairs well with roasted vegetables and potatoes, adding variety to the Thanksgiving table. A rich and satisfying main course that feels festive and indulgent.
3. Cheesy Broccoli Casserole
Cheesy broccoli casserole is creamy, comforting, and full of flavor. Broccoli florets are baked with a cheesy sauce and topped with crunchy breadcrumbs. It’s simple to prepare and always a crowd favorite.
This casserole adds a warm and hearty side to the Thanksgiving table, balancing out the meats. A cozy dish that kids and adults enjoy equally during the holidays.
4. Honey Glazed Ham
Honey glazed ham is sweet, savory, and festive. Coated in a glaze made with honey, brown sugar, and spices, it’s baked until golden and caramelized. This dish makes a wonderful alternative or addition to turkey at Thanksgiving.
Juicy and flavorful, ham slices perfectly alongside casseroles and salads. A timeless holiday favorite that looks beautiful on the table and tastes delicious.
5. Wild Rice Salad with Cranberries
Wild rice salad with cranberries is colorful, fresh, and filling. The nutty rice pairs with dried cranberries, pecans, and herbs for a hearty dish. Tossed in a light dressing, it balances the richness of roasts and casseroles.
This salad adds freshness and texture to the holiday spread. A great option for guests who enjoy lighter but still flavorful dishes.
6. Roast Duck with Orange Glaze
Roast duck with orange glaze is bold, rich, and elegant. The meat is roasted until crispy on the outside and tender inside, then brushed with a citrusy glaze. This dish is perfect for smaller gatherings or those wanting something special.
It pairs beautifully with seasonal vegetables. A unique centerpiece that makes Thanksgiving dinner feel extra memorable and festive.
7. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is creamy, sweet, and topped with marshmallows or crunchy pecans. The mashed sweet potatoes are seasoned with spices, making the dish flavorful and comforting.
This casserole feels almost like dessert but is served as a main side dish. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it adds color, sweetness, and tradition to the table. A favorite that guests always look forward to.
8. Roast Chicken with Lemon and Garlic
Roast chicken with lemon and garlic is simple, juicy, and flavorful. The citrus and garlic add brightness while the skin roasts to a crisp golden finish. This dish is perfect for smaller gatherings or as an extra option alongside turkey.
It pairs well with roasted vegetables and casseroles. A classic main dish that feels homely yet festive for Thanksgiving dinner.
9. Butternut Squash and Kale Salad
Butternut squash and kale salad is hearty, colorful, and seasonal. Roasted squash adds sweetness, while kale gives a fresh crunch. Tossed with cranberries, nuts, and a light dressing, it’s festive and healthy.
This salad is a perfect way to balance out richer Thanksgiving dishes. Simple to prepare yet full of flavor, it’s a refreshing addition to the holiday table.
10. Roast Pork Loin with Herbs
Roast pork loin with herbs is tender, juicy, and flavorful. Seasoned with rosemary, thyme, and garlic, it’s roasted until perfectly golden. This dish is a hearty alternative to turkey, offering variety for your guests.
It pairs beautifully with casseroles, potatoes, and seasonal vegetables. A satisfying and simple main dish that makes your Thanksgiving dinner table feel complete and festive.
11. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is creamy, savory, and topped with crispy fried onions. It’s a Thanksgiving classic that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table. The beans are baked in a creamy mushroom sauce, creating a rich side dish.
Loved for its familiar taste, this casserole is a must-have for many families. A warm, simple dish that fits perfectly with holiday roasts.
12. Roast Lamb with Garlic and Rosemary
Roast lamb with garlic and rosemary is flavorful, juicy, and tender. The herbs create a savory crust, while the meat cooks to perfection. This dish is ideal for families who want something different from turkey or ham.
Served with potatoes and greens, lamb makes a rich and satisfying main course. A festive option that feels both elegant and comforting.
13. Spinach and Strawberry Salad
Spinach and strawberry salad is fresh, colorful, and light. Baby spinach leaves are topped with sliced strawberries, nuts, and a tangy vinaigrette. This salad adds brightness and balance to the Thanksgiving table, contrasting with heavier roasts and casseroles.
Simple to prepare, it’s a refreshing option for guests who enjoy something lighter. A cheerful, vibrant dish that feels festive and delicious.
14. Roast Goose with Apple Stuffing
Roast goose with apple stuffing is rich, traditional, and festive. The goose is roasted until golden and crispy, while the apple stuffing adds sweetness and aroma. This dish makes a beautiful centerpiece for Thanksgiving, offering something unique and hearty.
Perfect for families who want to explore classic recipes with a twist. A flavorful and elegant addition to the holiday meal.
15. Cheesy Potato Gratin
Cheesy potato gratin is creamy, rich, and indulgent. Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with cheese and cream, then baked until golden and bubbling.
This casserole is comforting and perfect for Thanksgiving dinners. It pairs well with roasts and brings variety to the table. A hearty side dish that looks impressive but is simple to prepare, making it a holiday favorite.
16. Roast Venison with Red Wine Sauce
Roast venison with red wine sauce is lean, flavorful, and bold. The meat is roasted to perfection, then served with a rich, savory sauce. This dish is ideal for adventurous families looking for something different at Thanksgiving.
Paired with root vegetables and potatoes, venison adds variety to the holiday spread. A festive and elegant dish that feels truly special.
17. Broccoli Salad with Cranberries
Broccoli salad with cranberries is crunchy, sweet, and tangy. Fresh broccoli is combined with dried cranberries, nuts, and a creamy dressing. This salad adds freshness and a pop of color to the Thanksgiving table.
It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and balances out heavier casseroles and meats. A flavorful and festive dish that both kids and adults enjoy.
18. Roast Prime Rib
Roast prime rib is juicy, tender, and luxurious. Seasoned with garlic, salt, and herbs, it’s roasted until perfectly cooked and full of flavor. This dish is a showstopper at the Thanksgiving table, perfect for larger gatherings.
It pairs beautifully with potatoes, casseroles, or salads. A rich and satisfying main dish that makes the holiday meal feel extra special.
19. Cornbread Casserole
Cornbread casserole is soft, buttery, and slightly sweet. Made with corn, cheese, and a fluffy base, it’s baked until golden. This dish is simple yet hearty, making it a perfect addition to Thanksgiving dinner.
It pairs well with turkey, ham, or chicken, adding comfort and rustic charm to the spread. A classic Southern-inspired side that guests will love.
20. Roast Salmon with Dill Sauce
Roast salmon with dill sauce is light, flaky, and delicious. The fish is seasoned and roasted until tender, then topped with a creamy dill sauce. Perfect for guests who prefer seafood, this dish adds variety to the Thanksgiving menu.
It’s quick to cook and pairs well with fresh salads and casseroles. A festive main dish that feels elegant and special.
21. Wild Mushroom Risotto
Wild mushroom risotto is creamy, rich, and earthy. Arborio rice is cooked slowly with broth, wine, and mushrooms, creating a comforting main dish. Perfect for vegetarians or as an alternative to meat, risotto feels indulgent and satisfying.
It pairs beautifully with fresh salads or roasted vegetables. A flavorful option that adds depth and variety to your Thanksgiving dinner spread.
22. Brussels Sprout Salad with Pecans
Brussels sprout salad with pecans is crunchy, nutty, and refreshing. Shredded Brussels sprouts are tossed with pecans, cranberries, and a tangy dressing. This salad is festive and colorful, balancing the heavier casseroles and meats.
It’s easy to prepare ahead of time and makes a healthy, flavorful addition to the holiday meal. A fresh, seasonal dish that brightens the Thanksgiving table.
23. Roast Duck with Cherry Sauce
Roast duck with cherry sauce is rich, elegant, and flavorful. The crispy duck pairs perfectly with the sweet-tart cherry sauce, creating a festive balance. This dish is great for smaller gatherings where you want a memorable centerpiece.
It pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or simple casseroles. A gourmet option that makes Thanksgiving feel extra special and indulgent.
24. Cheesy Cauliflower Bake
Cheesy cauliflower bake is creamy, golden, and hearty. Fresh cauliflower is baked with cheese and cream, topped with breadcrumbs for crunch. This dish is comforting and adds a unique twist to the Thanksgiving spread.
It’s perfect for guests who enjoy cheesy casseroles but want something a little lighter than potatoes. A simple, tasty recipe that fits the holiday mood.
25. Roast Lamb Shank
Roast lamb shank is tender, flavorful, and comforting. Slow-roasted with herbs and spices, the meat falls off the bone. This dish is perfect for Thanksgiving when you want something rustic yet festive.
It pairs well with creamy casseroles and fresh salads, adding variety to the table. A hearty, warming option that makes the holiday meal feel rich and satisfying.
26. Harvest Salad with Apples and Walnuts
Harvest salad with apples and walnuts is crisp, sweet, and seasonal. Fresh greens are topped with apple slices, crunchy walnuts, and a light vinaigrette. This salad adds balance to the Thanksgiving table, offering freshness among heavier dishes.
Easy to prepare and full of flavor, it’s a colorful addition to the holiday spread. A cheerful, healthy option that guests will love.
27. Roast Turkey Breast
Roast turkey breast is juicy, tender, and perfect for smaller gatherings. It’s seasoned with herbs and roasted until golden, offering all the flavor of a whole turkey but with less effort.
This dish is simple, quick, and pairs with all the classic sides. A great option for families who want a traditional Thanksgiving meal without cooking an entire bird.
28. Eggplant Parmesan Casserole
Eggplant parmesan casserole is hearty, cheesy, and flavorful. Layers of breaded eggplant, marinara, and cheese are baked until golden. This dish is perfect for vegetarians or as an extra option at Thanksgiving.
It’s filling, festive, and loved by everyone. A warm and comforting casserole that brings variety to the table and ensures there’s something for every guest to enjoy.
29. Roast Beef with Red Wine Jus
Roast beef with red wine jus is savory, tender, and elegant. The beef is roasted to perfection and served with a rich sauce that enhances the flavor. This dish is a great alternative to turkey, offering depth and variety for the holiday meal.
It pairs beautifully with casseroles or roasted vegetables. A satisfying centerpiece for Thanksgiving dinner celebrations.
30. Spinach Artichoke Casserole
Spinach artichoke casserole is creamy, cheesy, and flavorful. Made with spinach, artichokes, and a rich sauce, it’s baked until bubbly and golden. This dish is a twist on the classic dip but in casserole form.
Perfect for Thanksgiving, it’s hearty, festive, and a great option for vegetarians. A warm, comforting recipe that fits beautifully into the holiday spread.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving dinner is about more than just turkey — it’s a mix of flavors, textures, and traditions. These 33 recipes include hearty roasts, cheesy casseroles, and fresh salads, giving you plenty of ideas to create a memorable spread. Each dish is simple, festive, and made for sharing. With this variety, your holiday meal will feel complete, comforting, and truly special.
