So, I know my image is not Instagram beautiful, but it is real. It’s from one of my recent Thanksgiving dinners, which turned out fairly well…if I must say so myself.
If you’re not meeting up with family because of the pandemic, I thought it might be helpful to have some recipes on hand for traditional Thanksgiving favorites, as well as some new dishes to add to your menu.
Here’s my list of dishes and links to some tasty recipes that piqued my interest:
01 | TRADITIONAL DISHES
- Roasted Turkey – I saved this recipe because it just looks so perfect. My family has a recipe that we have used for decades, but I’m definitely going to give this one a go.
- Stuffing – I have been eating this stuffing since I was a kid, and it is truly divine! Moist – check! Savory – check, check!!
- Giblet Gravy – In my humble opinion, no stuffing or turkey is ready until you add giblet gravy.
- Southern Style Green Beans – This recipe calls for adding ham hocks to the dish. I’ve never tried this style of green beans, but I think I may add some form of smoked turkey parts. I’m sure the meaty flavor will elevate the taste of the dish.
- Cranberry Sauce – This recipe allows you to make your own cranberry sauce. I’ve tried it a few times and was amazed at the ease of making my own dish from scratch.
- Sweet Potato Casserole – This dish is EVERYTHING for me at Thanksgiving. I can almost guarantee that if you try it, you’ll love it.
02 | SIDES
- Pumpkin Dinner Rolls – This side will add flair (and flavor) to your dinner spread.
- Small Bacon + Mac and Cheese Cups – I’m always game for a good mac and cheese recipe, and this one looks good and can help with portion sizes if you’re preparing a smaller dinner.
03 | DESSERTS
- Bourbon Pie – Pecan pie with the added flavors of chocolate and bourbon. Yes, yes, yes!
- Cranberry Bake – If you like warm desserts with a subtle crisp. This is your dish.
- Puff pastry Turkeys – This is one that I’d like to prepare with my younger cousins. I think they would really enjoy creating such a cute treat.
If you have a Thanksgiving recipe or idea on how to make our pandemic Thanksgiving more enjoyable, please feel free to share.