The Thanksgiving table is often filled with dishes that have been passed down through generations, while some favorites have evolved to suit modern tastes. Among the many options, certain recipes stand out as the most iconic and beloved. In this article, we’ll explore the 10 most popular Thanksgiving dishes of all time, from the star of the meal to classic desserts that finish the feast on a sweet note.
1. Roasted Turkey
When people think of Thanksgiving, the roasted turkey is likely the first dish that comes to mind. As the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal, turkey has become synonymous with the holiday itself. Historically, turkey was chosen for its size, making it suitable for feeding large groups of people. Over time, roasting a turkey has become a well-practiced art, with families developing their own special methods for seasoning, brining, and cooking.
A perfectly roasted turkey features crispy, golden-brown skin and tender, juicy meat. Many cooks opt to brine the bird for several hours or even overnight to ensure that the meat remains moist and flavorful. Popular flavorings for the brine and rub include herbs like rosemary, thyme, and sage, along with garlic and butter. Some even stuff the turkey with aromatics like onions, celery, and citrus to enhance the flavor from the inside out.
Traditionally, the turkey is served with gravy made from the drippings, which adds richness and depth to the meal. Whether it’s a large gathering or a smaller family affair, the roasted turkey remains a must-have at any Thanksgiving table.
2. Mashed Potatoes
Next to the turkey, mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that no Thanksgiving meal would feel complete without. Fluffy, creamy, and rich, mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, providing a starchy, buttery base to complement the other dishes. The beauty of mashed potatoes lies in their simplicity, though variations abound based on personal preference.
To make perfect mashed potatoes, most cooks start by boiling Yukon Gold or Russet potatoes until they are soft and tender. The potatoes are then mashed and mixed with butter, cream, or milk to create a smooth and luxurious texture. Some prefer to leave their mashed potatoes slightly chunky for a more rustic feel, while others whip them until they are silky smooth.
Garlic mashed potatoes are another popular variation, where roasted or sautéed garlic is blended into the potatoes for added flavor. Some people also incorporate cream cheese, sour cream, or Parmesan for extra richness. Served with turkey gravy or on their own, mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving essential.
3. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For a vegetable side that balances out the richness of the Thanksgiving feast, roasted Brussels sprouts are a popular go-to. Brussels sprouts have experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years, evolving from a vegetable many people avoided to a beloved dish that graces holiday tables across the country.
When prepared properly, roasted Brussels sprouts become caramelized and crispy on the outside while maintaining a tender interior. The key to perfect roasted Brussels sprouts lies in high heat and a generous coating of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Some cooks enhance the flavor further by adding ingredients like balsamic vinegar, maple syrup, or bacon.
Brussels sprouts pair well with many other Thanksgiving dishes, offering a savory contrast to the sweeter options on the table. Their slightly bitter taste and crispy texture provide a refreshing balance to the mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravies that dominate the meal.
4. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is one of the most iconic Thanksgiving dishes and has been a staple at holiday tables since its creation in the 1950s. Originally developed by Dorcas Reilly at Campbell’s Soup Company, this dish was designed to be simple, affordable, and delicious. It quickly became a beloved classic, known for its creamy base and crunchy top.
The traditional green bean casserole features canned green beans mixed with cream of mushroom soup and topped with crispy fried onions. The dish is baked until it’s bubbling and golden brown, with the fried onions adding a satisfying crunch to each bite. Some modern variations use fresh or frozen green beans instead of canned, and others add ingredients like cheddar cheese or bacon for extra richness.
Despite its humble beginnings, green bean casserole has become a Thanksgiving classic, loved for its creamy texture and savory flavor. It offers a perfect contrast to the more decadent side dishes, providing a vegetable-based option with a touch of nostalgia.
5. Cranberry Sauce
A Thanksgiving meal wouldn’t be complete without cranberry sauce, which brings a burst of tartness and color to the table. Cranberries, native to North America, have long been associated with Thanksgiving, and their bright, tangy flavor complements the rich and savory dishes served at the feast.
Cranberry sauce is incredibly simple to make but packs a punch of flavor. Fresh or frozen cranberries are simmered with sugar and water until they break down into a thick, jam-like consistency. Some recipes add orange zest, cinnamon, or even a splash of bourbon to enhance the flavor. For those who prefer a smoother texture, the sauce can be strained to remove the skins.
While some people enjoy making homemade cranberry sauce, others are loyal to the canned version, which has a uniquely smooth, gelatinous texture that’s become a classic in its own right. Whatever form it takes, cranberry sauce provides a refreshing contrast to the savory turkey and stuffing, cutting through the richness with its tart-sweet flavor.
6. Pecan Pie
When it comes to Thanksgiving desserts, pecan pie is one of the most beloved. This Southern classic is known for its rich, gooey filling made from pecans, butter, sugar, and corn syrup, all baked in a flaky pie crust. The combination of crunchy pecans and smooth, sweet filling makes pecan pie an irresistible treat for any holiday gathering.
Pecan pie is often served warm, sometimes with a dollop of whipped cream or a scoop of vanilla ice cream. The contrast between the crispy pecans and the soft, syrupy filling is what gives this pie its signature appeal. While the recipe is fairly simple, some variations add ingredients like chocolate, bourbon, or maple syrup for a slightly different flavor profile.
Because of its indulgent sweetness and rich texture, pecan pie is a perfect way to end a Thanksgiving meal on a high note. It’s a crowd-pleaser that often competes with pumpkin pie for the title of the best Thanksgiving dessert.
7. Pumpkin Pie
No Thanksgiving is complete without pumpkin pie, arguably the most iconic Thanksgiving dessert. With its smooth, spiced filling and flaky crust, pumpkin pie is a time-honored tradition that has graced holiday tables for generations. Made from pumpkin puree (often canned, but sometimes fresh), the filling is flavored with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
Pumpkin pie is typically served with a generous dollop of whipped cream, and its creamy texture and subtle sweetness make it the perfect end to a hearty Thanksgiving meal. The pie can be prepared a day or two in advance, making it an ideal dessert for those who want to reduce stress on the day of the feast.
While classic pumpkin pie remains a favorite, some variations incorporate additional flavors like maple syrup or cream cheese to add richness. Regardless of the recipe, pumpkin pie continues to be a Thanksgiving staple that embodies the flavors of fall.
8. Sweet Potato Casserole
For those who prefer a sweeter side dish, sweet potato casserole is a perennial favorite. This dish combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a variety of toppings, ranging from toasted marshmallows to pecan streusel.
The base of sweet potato casserole is made by mashing cooked sweet potatoes and mixing them with butter, sugar, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg. The mixture is then baked until warm and bubbly, with the topping providing a delightful contrast in texture. The marshmallow-topped version is especially popular, as it adds a gooey, caramelized layer that pairs perfectly with the creamy sweet potatoes.
Sweet potato casserole blurs the line between side dish and dessert, but its inclusion in the main meal is non-negotiable for many families. Its sweet, buttery flavor complements the savory elements of the Thanksgiving spread, making it one of the most beloved dishes of the holiday.
9. Apple Pie
While pumpkin pie may get most of the attention during Thanksgiving, apple pie is another classic dessert that has earned its place at the table. Known as a symbol of American tradition, apple pie features a filling made from tart apples, sugar, and spices, encased in a buttery, flaky crust.
Apple pie can be served warm or at room temperature, often with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a slice of cheddar cheese (a New England tradition). The combination of tender apples and the crisp crust makes for a comforting and satisfying dessert that’s hard to resist.
Some variations of apple pie include additions like caramel or nuts, while others use a lattice crust or crumb topping for extra texture. Regardless of the version, apple pie remains a favorite on Thanksgiving, offering a sweet and spiced end to the meal.
10. Classic Sausage Stuffing
Last but certainly not least, classic sausage stuffing is a must-have side dish for many Thanksgiving dinners. Stuffing, also known as dressing in some regions, is a savory mixture of bread cubes, sausage, onions, celery, and herbs like sage and thyme. This flavorful dish is often baked outside of the turkey but can also be used to stuff the bird, adding extra moisture and flavor.
The sausage adds a hearty, savory element to the stuffing, while the bread absorbs the juices from the turkey and broth, creating a tender, flavorful dish. Some variations of stuffing include ingredients like apples, cranberries, or nuts to add a touch of sweetness or crunch.
Stuffing is one of the most versatile dishes on the Thanksgiving table, with endless possibilities for customization. Whether it’s prepared with traditional ingredients or given a modern twist, classic sausage stuffing is a beloved part of the Thanksgiving meal that brings all the flavors of the holiday together.
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate family, friends, and the bounty of the season, and the dishes served at the holiday feast reflect that spirit. From the iconic roasted turkey to the indulgent pecan pie, these 10 most popular Thanksgiving dishes have stood the test of time, creating cherished memories for generations. Each dish carries with it a sense of tradition and comfort, making Thanksgiving one of the most anticipated meals of the year.
