After many requests, here is my yearly Thanksgiving Day menu. Please note that Thanksgiving is one of those days that I don’t do solely “lightened-up” recipes, nor do I stick to only my recipes. I like to indulge a little and since I’m feeding a big crowd, it’s easier to make and serve a more traditional Thanksgiving menu incorporating recipes from other creators.
However, all of these recipes are packed with flavor but made with simple, real ingredients. This menu has everything covered: tasty side dishes, my favorite turkey recipe, and appetizers! Plus, I’m including my go-to signature cocktail and free printables for the kids.
Download The Menu
Appetizers
Sausage Pinwheels (non-recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 bell pepper
- 1 onion
- 5 links sweet Italian sausage (casings removed) I used Premio
- Pinch garlic powder, dried parsley, dried oregano and kosher salt
- 8 oz cream cheese
- Crescent dough
Directions
- Mince the pepper and onion into small pieces and add to a frying pan with the sausage meat and some olive oil, sauté over medium heat until the sausage is no longer pink and the pepper and onion is soft
- Season with a pinch of garlic powder, dried parsley, dried oregano and kosher salt. Stir in 8 oz cream cheese.
- Layer on top of two sheets of crescent and roll up. Lay the crescent dough on parchment paper when you roll it up, then roll it up in the parchment paper nice and tightly.
- Pop in the freezer for a little to harden up a bit before cutting into slices. Bake at 375 until golden brown or put back in the freezer and pull them out when ready to bake.
Baked Brie (non-recipe)
Directions
- Put a wheel of Brie in the center of a sheet of crescent dough.
- Top with preserves of your choosing (I do fig) then close it up.
- Add a little olive oil spray and some flaky sea salt.
- Bake at 375 until golden brown.
First Course
Butternut Squash Ravioli in Butter Sauce
I love having a precursor to the main feast for sit down dinners like this. I use store bought butternut squash ravioli by the Rana and make a simple butter sauce to coat it. It’s delicious!
Main Dish
Turkey
The Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe
I’ve been using this recipe by Dward Cooks for years now. It’s easy and full of flavor. I love that it doesn’t overcomplicate things or call for any fancy equipment. This recipe uses a dry brine that allows the turkey to get that crispy outside skin.
Side Dishes
Lightened-Up Green Bean Casserole
Get all the delicious flavors and vibes of this ultimate comfort food without the guilt or unnecessary calories. The best part about this healthy green bean casserole is that it’s made without any heavy, canned cream soups. Instead, this dish is made creamy with the addition of cream cheese to the homemade pan sauce. One bite of this lightened-up variation, and you won’t miss your old green bean casserole!
Tomato and Cheese Stuffed Artichokes
No fancy dinner of mine would be complete without something Italian-inspired! My tomato and cheese stuffed artichokes are stuffed with a mixture of breadcrumbs, fresh herbs, cheese, and cooked cherry tomatoes and onion; they are steamed in a Dutch Oven filled with flavorful broth for the perfect, tender bite.
Other Sweet Savory & Steph Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Ruth Chris Sweet Potato Casserole
This fakeout takeout recipe is an indulgent, must-make for Thanksgiving. Christy from the blog “The Girl Who Ate Everything” nailed this creasy and crispy perfect side dish.
Southern Corn Casserole
The queen of southern cooking nails this delicious recipe. This is truly the easiest yet delicious side dish recipe for Thanksgiving. It takes a classic vegetable and transforms it into a decadent, creamy dish.
Signature Drink
Apple Cider Mimosas
- 1 part champagne or Prosecco
- 1 part apple cider
- Rim glass with cinnamon sugar & serve!
Desserts
BONUS: Free Kid Color Sheets
Print these out to keep the kids/grandkids/nieces/nephews…occupied.
Thanksgiving Day is a day to feel thankful not stressful. By watching your portions, these recipes let you enjoy all the holiday goodness without overdoing it. Follow this simple menu for a delicious and traditional Turkey Day feast!
Download The Menu
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