Savor Thanksgiving Without the Stress with These Simple 17 Recipes
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Thanksgiving can feel like a lot, but it doesn’t have to be complicated. With these easy recipes, you’ll get all the classic flavors without the usual kitchen chaos. Relax, enjoy your holiday, and let these dishes take the stress out of your celebration.
Roasted Turkey
A perfectly roasted turkey doesn’t have to be a Thanksgiving headache. This simple recipe walks you through how to get crispy skin and juicy meat without any stress. With classic flavors like butter, garlic, and herbs, you’ll have a centerpiece that’s both foolproof and totally impressive—perfect for making Thanksgiving feel special without the hassle.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey
Broccoli Rice Casserole
This broccoli rice casserole is the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish—creamy, cheesy, and packed with comfort. The combination of tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and melty cheddar cheese feels indulgent but is so easy to whip up. Whether it’s your star side or a cozy weeknight leftover, it’s guaranteed to make everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Rice Casserole
Pepper Gravy
Pepper gravy is a Thanksgiving essential that takes your meal to the next level. Whether you pour it over mashed potatoes, turkey, or biscuits, its creamy texture and bold pepper flavor tie everything together. With just five ingredients, it’s a no-stress addition to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Pepper Gravy
Pumpkin Pasta
Pumpkin pasta is the dish that brings Thanksgiving comfort with half the effort. The creamy pumpkin and cheese sauce gives you all the cozy fall vibes in a meal that’s as simple as stirring and serving. It’s perfect for adding some seasonal flair to your table without spending hours in the kitchen.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pasta
Apple Cinnamon Cake
End Thanksgiving on a sweet note with this apple cinnamon cake. It’s fluffy, spiced just right, and topped with a crunchy crumble that tastes like autumn in every bite. This easy dessert is perfect for impressing your guests without stressing over a pie crust.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cinnamon Cake
Copycat Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
Want Thanksgiving comfort food with a touch of fancy? This stuffed chicken is creamy, cheesy, and golden-baked perfection. It’s simple to make but feels like a restaurant-quality dish that’s perfect for holiday celebrations or the weekend after.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Ruth’s Chris Stuffed Chicken
Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries are the side dish you didn’t know your Thanksgiving needed. Tossed in olive oil and savory spices, they’re crispy, fluffy, and ready in minutes. They’re a guilt-free, crowd-pleasing option that’s great for snacking while the turkey finishes roasting.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Fries
Holiday Charcuterie Board
A holiday charcuterie board is the easiest way to wow your Thanksgiving crowd with minimal effort. Fill it with cured meats, cheeses, and seasonal fruits to create a centerpiece that’s both delicious and beautiful. It’s perfect for grazing while the main meal is still in the works.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Charcuterie Board
Potato Skins
These loaded potato skins are a Thanksgiving appetizer that everyone will devour. Crispy, buttery potato halves topped with bacon, cheese, and green onions are simple to make and even easier to love. They’re the perfect bite to keep your guests happy while you finish the main course.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins
Bruschetta Al Pomodoro
Fresh and light, bruschetta al pomodoro is a no-fuss starter that balances out the richness of Thanksgiving dinner. Juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crusty bread come together in a simple dish that’s big on flavor. It’s a refreshing way to kick off your holiday meal without adding extra stress.
Get the Recipe: Bruschetta Al Pomodoro
Pumpkin Pancakes with Pancake Mix (IHOP Copycat)
Start your Thanksgiving morning right with these fluffy pumpkin pancakes. They’re loaded with warm spices and made extra easy thanks to pancake mix. Your house will smell amazing, and breakfast will be on the table in no time—leaving you more energy for the big meal later.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pancakes with Pancake Mix (IHOP Copycat)
Baked Potato Soup
This baked potato soup is like wrapping yourself in a cozy Thanksgiving hug. Creamy, hearty, and topped with crispy bacon and melty cheese, it’s perfect for a holiday starter or an easy meal during Thanksgiving week. It’s simple to make and packed with comforting flavors.
Get the Recipe: Baked Potato Soup
Cinnamon Rolls
What better way to kick off Thanksgiving morning than with warm, gooey cinnamon rolls? These soft, pillowy treats are swirled with cinnamon sugar and topped with a sweet glaze that feels like dessert for breakfast. With a quick and easy recipe, you can enjoy homemade goodness without the holiday stress.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Rolls
Bread Machine Pumpkin Bread
Let your bread machine do the work this Thanksgiving with this pumpkin bread recipe. It’s sweet, spiced, and perfect for snacking, breakfast, or even pairing with your turkey dinner. Add nuts or chocolate chips for an extra treat, and let the warm aroma fill your home.
Get the Recipe: Bread Machine Pumpkin Bread
Lobster
Who says Thanksgiving can’t be a little fancy? Learn how to cook lobster perfectly for a show-stopping addition to your holiday spread. Whether it’s a luxurious side or a seafood twist on the main course, this recipe keeps it easy while delivering big-time flavor.
Get the Recipe: Lobster
Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Muffins
These pumpkin and cream cheese muffins are the perfect grab-and-go Thanksgiving treat. Soft, spiced muffins filled with velvety cream cheese and topped with a crunchy praline make every bite feel festive. Skip the Starbucks line and enjoy a lighter, homemade version of your favorite seasonal indulgence.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin and Cream Cheese Muffins
Starbucks Copycat Chai Syrup
This homemade chai syrup brings all the cozy Thanksgiving spices to your drinks and desserts. Use it to make lattes, iced teas, or even drizzle it over pancakes or waffles for a seasonal twist. Made in just 15 minutes, it’s a simple way to infuse your holiday with warm, spiced flavor.
Get the Recipe: Starbucks Copycat Chai Syrup