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Thanksgiving Recipes for a Delicious Holiday Feast

ByDiane Gail November 11, 2025October 12, 2026 Updated onOctober 12, 2026

This Thanksgiving recipes collection brings everything you need for a handmade celebration together in one place — cozy starters, a from-scratch feast, sweet endings, creative leftover dishes, and even breakfast ideas for the long holiday weekend ahead.

A collage shows mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, applesauce, and stuffing, with a brown banner across the center reading “27 From-Scratch Thanksgiving Recipes” in white text.

Thanksgiving main dishes that steal the show

The main dish is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinner, and there’s more than one delicious way to bring it to the table. Explore homemade recipes featuring traditional turkey favorites and flavorful alternatives for your holiday feast.

Roasted turkey thighs with golden skin nestled among cider-roasted carrots, celery, and onions in a serving bowl.

Roasted Turkey Thighs with Apple Cider Brine

These roasted turkey thighs with apple cider brine have juicy, tender meat, golden skin, and rich, savory flavor. They're a delicious way to enjoy a flavorful turkey dinner without cooking a whole bird.

Cooked, seasoned turkey tips, with a sprig of fresh basil on top, in a round glass dish.

Marinated Turkey Tips

Tender turkey tips marinated in a homemade honey garlic herb marinade, then cooked until juicy and lightly caramelized for a flavorful, satisfying main dish.

Cajun turkey breast with browned skin and a dark Cajun spice crust.

Cajun Turkey Breast

This Cajun turkey breast is roasted with Cajun seasoned butter for bold, savory flavor and a juicy, tender bite. Ready in about 1½ hours with just 15 minutes of hands-on time, it’s an easy way to serve an impressive turkey dinner without roasting a whole bird.

Homemade turkey meatballs nestled among flat noodles covered in Alfredo sauce.

Turkey Meatball Alfredo

Tender homemade turkey meatballs are coated in a rich, velvety Alfredo sauce made from scratch for a satisfying main dish that's perfect served with your favorite pasta.

Oven roasted turkey breast with golden, buttery skin speckled with fresh herbs and dark roasted bits.

Roasted Turkey Breast

This roasted turkey breast is seasoned with butter, garlic, and fresh herbs, then oven-roasted until golden brown, tender, and juicy. An easy, flavorful main dish for holiday dinners or Sunday suppers.

Mini turkey meatballs with golden-brown, pan-fried edges piled in a bowl.

Mini Turkey Meatballs

Mini turkey meatballs are tender, juicy, and full of savory Italian-inspired flavor. Made with simple ingredients, these bite-sized meatballs can be pan-fried or baked and freeze well for easy meals later.

Apple and pork tenderloin with cooked apple slices and maple Dijon sauce on a serving platter.

Apple and Pork Tenderloin

This apple and pork tenderloin recipe features juicy roasted pork tenderloin, tender cooked apples, and a rich maple Dijon sauce. It's an easy from-scratch dinner that's perfect for weeknights, Sunday suppers, or holiday meals.

Thanksgiving sides that deserve a spot on the table

No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a generous selection of homemade side dishes. From comforting holiday classics to fresh seasonal favorites, these recipes bring variety, flavor, and tradition to your Thanksgiving table.

Cranberry compote with whole cranberries in a thick, glossy, deep red sauce.

Cranberry Compote

This easy homemade cranberry compote takes just 4 ingredients and 10 minutes to make. Serve it warm or cold with breakfast favorites, desserts, or savory dishes.

Black cast iron skillet filled with green beans, chunks of tomato, and onion pieces in a red tomato sauce on a wooden table.

Old-Fashioned Stewed Green Bean

Fresh green beans slowly simmered with onions, garlic, and fire-roasted tomatoes until tender and full of flavor.

Creamy mashed potatoes from scratch topped with melted butter and freshly ground black pepper.

Mashed Potatoes From Scratch

Mashed potatoes from scratch are light, fluffy, and creamy with plenty of rich, buttery flavor. Made with russet potatoes and a hint of garlic, this classic homemade side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and holiday meals.

Square baking dish of carrots and red onions topped with chopped scallions sitting on a wooden surface.

Honey Balsamic Carrots Recipe

This honey balsamic carrots recipe is a simple, elegant side dish that turns fresh carrots into something truly special. The natural sweetness of the carrots meets a tangy balsamic glaze for a rich, caramelized flavor that works just as well for weeknight dinners as it does for holiday tables.

Sweet potato casserole topped with crunchy pecans and a golden brown sugar crumble.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Creamy sweet potato casserole topped with a crunchy brown sugar pecan topping. A delicious from-scratch side dish for holidays and Sunday dinners.

Cranberry orange relish with finely chopped cranberries and pecans in a white serving bowl.

Cranberry Orange Relish

This homemade cranberry orange relish combines fresh cranberries, orange, pecans, and honey in a sweet-tart, crunchy holiday condiment. Easy to make with no cooking required, it's a delicious alternative to traditional cranberry sauce.

Blue baking dish full of mashed potatoes topped with melted white cheese, paprika, and chopped scallions on top.

Easy Cheesy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

These easy cheesy garlic mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort side dish — rich, creamy, and loaded with flavor. They’re perfect for holidays, family dinners, or anytime you want a hearty, crowd-pleasing side you can prepare ahead and bake when guests arrive.

Homemade applesauce with a chunky texture in a brown bowl sitting on a wooden surface.

Caramel Applesauce Recipe

This caramel applesauce recipe turns simple ingredients into something special — rich, buttery, and delicious. It’s quick to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and far more flavorful than anything you’ll ever buy in a jar. Serve it warm for a cozy fall treat or chilled alongside your favorite comfort meals.

Turkey dressing with sausage, pecans, dried cherries, and celery baked in a cast iron skillet.

Homemade Turkey Dressing

This homemade turkey dressing recipe combines sweet Italian sausage, sage, pecans, and tart cherries in a rich, savory, moist bread dressing. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it can be baked separately or prepared as traditional turkey stuffing.

Finely grated cabbage and carrot coleslaw in a large bowl.

Old-Fashioned Farmhouse Coleslaw

This simple coleslaw recipe combines finely grated cabbage and carrots with a smooth, from-scratch mayonnaise dressing. Perfect for potlucks, picnics, and everyday dinners alike.

White dish with chopped zucchini and tomatoes topped with shredded cheese in it.

Garden Fresh Side Dish

This garden fresh side dish is a simple way to celebrate the season’s best produce. Made with tender zucchini, juicy tomatoes, and a generous handful of shredded mozzarella, it comes together quickly and pairs beautifully with just about any summer meal.

A baked potato with cheese, bacon, and scallions on top of it sitting on a slate board.

Classic Twice Baked Potato

Classic twice-baked potatoes feature a crispy, salty skin and a creamy, cheesy filling that makes for the perfect comfort food. These potatoes are a great addition to any meal, combining the best of savory flavors with a satisfying texture. Whether you're serving them for a family dinner or as a side for a special occasion, these twice-baked potatoes are sure to impress.

Braised red cabbage with pieces of cooked apple and onion served in a wooden bowl.

Braised Red Cabbage

This braised red cabbage recipe slowly simmers red cabbage with apples, onions, balsamic vinegar, and warm spice for a tender, sweet and tangy side dish.

Freshly baked breads for your table

No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without homemade bread on the table. These Thanksgiving bread recipes are delicious additions to your holiday menu and pair beautifully with all your favorite Thanksgiving dishes.

Golden brown savory pumpkin dinner rolls with scored tops arranged on a black cooling rack.

Savory Pumpkin Dinner Rolls

A warm, golden brown savory pumpkin roll with Italian cheeses, rubbed sage, and a soft, buttery interior perfect for serving with dinner.

Homemade dinner rolls with browned tops baked together in a cast iron skillet.

Farmhouse Yeast Rolls From Scratch

Farmhouse yeast rolls from scratch baked in a cast iron skillet until golden brown. These soft, buttery pull-apart dinner rolls have a light, tender crumb and classic homemade flavor that pairs perfectly with soups, stews, pasta dishes, and hearty family meals.

Buttermilk dinner rolls cooling on a wire rack.

Buttermilk Dinner Rolls From Scratch

Soft, hearty buttermilk dinner rolls from scratch with a tender interior, a golden-brown crust, and a buttery finish, perfect for everyday meals and holiday tables alike.

Square pieces of orange quick bread sitting on a black surface.

Savory Pumpkin Spice Cornbread Recipe

This savory pumpkin spice cornbread recipe brings cozy fall flavor to the table in the best way possible. It’s rich, moist, and filled with the subtle warmth that pumpkin and spice bring to a dish — a perfect side for soups, stews, and seasonal gatherings. With just 10 minutes of hands-on time, it’s an easy, satisfying bake that feels right at home in any fall kitchen.

Sweet endings for your feast

End your Thanksgiving feast on a delicious note with homemade desserts that celebrate the flavors of the season. From traditional holiday favorites to creative twists on classic recipes, these Thanksgiving desserts are a sweet way to finish your holiday meal.

Cranberry cheesecake bars arranged on a dark surface, showing marbled cranberry topping and graham cracker crust.

Cranberry Cheesecake Bars

Cranberry cheesecake bars combine creamy orange-infused cheesecake, a buttery graham cracker crust, and swirls of homemade cranberry compote. An easy make-ahead dessert for the holidays.

Slice of pumpkin galette being held above a dark brown surface with a serving utensil with more slices in the background.

Sweet Pumpkin Maple Galette

A sweet pumpkin maple galette is a must-have fall dessert. With its rustic, free-form crust and rich, maple-sweetened pumpkin filling, this galette is as easy to make as it is delicious.

The top of a cake with a slice taken out of it with white frosting and chopped walnuts on it.

Moist Sweet Potato Cake Recipe

This homemade sweet potato cake is the perfect fall dessert—moist, flavorful, and packed with warm spices like cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. The shredded sweet potatoes add natural sweetness and a tender texture, while a rich cream cheese frosting brings just the right amount of tangy sweetness. Topped with chopped walnuts for a bit of crunch, this easy-to-make cake is perfect for holiday gatherings, family dinners, or cozy autumn afternoons.

Pear upside down cake with eight golden pear slices arranged in a circular pattern over a glossy, caramelized brown sugar topping.

Pear Upside Down Cake

This homemade pear upside down cake features tender, juicy pears baked in a buttery brown sugar and cinnamon topping over a tender, moist vanilla cake. An easy, elegant dessert for any occasion.

Apple custard pie with a golden crust, creamy custard filling, and visible pieces of apple.

Apple Custard Pie

This apple custard pie features tender cinnamon-spiced apples topped with a smooth vanilla custard and baked in a flaky pie crust. It’s a from-scratch twist on classic apple pie that brings together warm apple flavor and creamy homemade custard in every slice.

Cast iron skillet filled with apple pan dowdy topped with golden brown pastry squares over bubbling filling.

Apple Pan Dowdy

A warm, old-fashioned apple dessert featuring a rich, buttery brown sugar filling with a pudding-like texture, topped with a hearty sour cream pastry that's broken into the filling the traditional dowdy way.

Vanilla caramel cake frosted with homemade caramel frosting on a white cake plate.

Vanilla Caramel Cake

Tender vanilla cake layers with a moist crumb, generously frosted with rich homemade caramel frosting.

Apple pie quesadilla wedges with whipped cream on a brown plate.

Apple Pie Quesadilla

Apple pie quesadillas with a crispy, buttery tortilla, warm homemade cinnamon apple filling, and a light sprinkling of brown sugar. A quick, comforting dessert served warm with all the flavors of classic homemade apple pie.

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Crackers for your snack board

Add a homemade touch to your Thanksgiving snack board with these delicious cracker recipes. They’re perfect for serving with your favorite accompaniments and giving guests something to nibble on before dinner.

Light orange, flower shaped crackers with sugar topping piled high on a brown plate sitting on a wooden surface.

Sweet Potato Crackers Recipe

These sweet potato crackers are naturally sweetened with real sweet potatoes and just a touch of brown sugar. They’re simple to make, beautifully rustic, and full of cozy fall flavor. Perfect for snacking, pairing with soft cheeses, or adding to your autumn spreads, they bring a warm sweetness that feels satisfying without being heavy.

Rustic cheese covered rectangular crackers in a black bowl sitting on a table.

Rosemary Parmesan Recipe

These rosemary parmesan crackers are crisp, flavorful, and downright hard to stop eating. With just a handful of ingredients and very little hands-on time, they bake up into a rustic, from-scratch snack that hits the spot every time.

Round, glossy finished, brown crackers in a white bowl sitting on a wooden surface.

Simple Pumpkin Cracker Recipe

This simple pumpkin cracker recipe packs real pumpkin spice flavor into a homemade snack that feels right at home in the fall season. They’re quick to pull together, lightly sweet, and just the thing to set out with cheese, jam, or even a cozy bowl of soup.

Bowl of square golden colored crackers on a wooden surface.

Cornbread Crackers

These easy cornbread crackers are tender, flavorful, and made from scratch with simple ingredients. Perfect for pairing with soups, salads, dips, or adding to a holiday charcuterie board, they bring classic cornbread flavor to bite-sized form you can enjoy year-round.

White oval dish full of brown cinnamon sugar coated crackers sitting on a wooden surface.

Cinnamon Sugar Crackers

Sweet, crisp, and coated edge to edge in cinnamon sugar, these crackers bake up in under 45 minutes with just 10 minutes of hands-on time. A homemade treat that turns a few pantry staples into a sweet snack everyone will love.

Square crackers in a brown bowl on a wooden table.

Roasted Garlic Crackers Recipe

These roasted garlic crackers are everything a from-scratch snack should be — crisp, flavorful, and packed with that irresistible roasted garlic taste. The dough chills overnight to build depth and texture, making it both easy to work with and full of rich, savory flavor. Perfect for snacking, adding to a fall spread, or pairing with soups, these crackers are simple to make and impossible to stop eating.

Rectangular crackers with seeds visible in them in a purple bowl with handles sitting on a wooden table.

Homemade Everything Crackers

This easy homemade everything crackers recipe uses just a handful of pantry staples and everything bagel seasoning to bake up thin, crisp crackers packed full of flavor. They’re quick to make, ready in under 30 minutes, and perfect for pairing with cheese, dips, or a cozy bowl of soup.

Dark colored oval dish full of small square crackers sitting on a wooden surface.

Pepper Jack Crackers

These homemade pepper jack crackers are rich, cheesy, and full of flavor with just the right amount of buttery bite. They’re easy to make from scratch, perfect for snacking, and pair beautifully with soups, salads, or your favorite dip.

White bowl full of round golden brown crackers sitting on a wooden table.

Butter Crackers Recipe

This easy butter crackers recipe makes rich, hearty crackers with a deep buttery flavor. Perfect for charcuterie boards, dips, or a simple snack, they’re ready in just 30 minutes and are endlessly versatile.

Homemade crackers laid out in two rows on a slate board with a dish of cream cheese sprinkled with paprika visible to the side.

Savory Homemade Crackers

These crisp, golden homemade crackers are a delicious alternative to store-bought. Made with pantry staples and no special equipment, they bake up beautifully with minimal hands-on time. Perfect for snacking, dipping, or serving alongside soups and cheese boards.

Dips keep everyone happy until dinner

Homemade dips are a delicious way to welcome guests and give them something to enjoy before Thanksgiving dinner. These flavorful Thanksgiving dip recipes are perfect for adding variety to your holiday appetizer spread.

Pumpkin cheese ball shaped like a pumpkin with a green stem and crackers on a serving plate.

Pumpkin Cheese Ball

This pumpkin cheese ball is a rich, savory cream cheese and cheddar spread seasoned with herbs and shaped like a pumpkin. A rustic orange coating makes it a festive appetizer for Halloween, Thanksgiving, and fall gatherings.

Small blue crock full of white dip topped with bacon pieces and scallions.

Bacon Blue Cheese Dip

This baked bacon blue cheese dip is all ooey-gooey and delicious. The pungency of the blue cheese blends incredibly well with the savory elements of heavy cream, sour cream, bacon, and scallions. It's a real crowd pleaser!

Baked buffalo chicken dip in square glass pan with melted top, blue cheese crumbles, and green onions.

Savory Buffalo Chicken Dip

Savory buffalo chicken dip is a warm, oven-baked appetizer made with shredded chicken, Frank’s RedHot sauce, ranch dressing, and blue cheese. Baked until hot and bubbling, it has a thick, creamy texture and classic Buffalo flavor in a scoopable dip format ideal for serving with crackers, bread, or fresh vegetables.

Brown oval dish of sausage dip topped with diced tomatoes with a wooden spoon in it.

Sweet Italian Sausage Dip

This hearty sausage dip is full of rich flavor and satisfying texture, making it perfect for gatherings or cozy nights at home. Sweet Italian sausage pairs with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic, then simmers with tomatoes, cream, and cheese for a thick, scoopable dip that’s packed with depth. Chill it for a thicker texture or serve it warm and melty — either way, it’s a hit.

Golden baked chicken dip with herbs in cast iron skillet.

Marry Me Chicken Dip

Warm, creamy, and packed with the signature flavors of Marry Me Chicken, this baked dip is a rich, cheesy appetizer that's perfect for scooping with crackers, toasted bread, or fresh vegetables.

Savory honey BBQ chicken dip in glass dish topped with cheddar and chives.

Savory Honey BBQ Chicken Dip

Savory honey BBQ chicken dip is a warm, oven-baked appetizer made by mixing shredded chicken with a rich barbecue base and baking until hot and bubbly. The result is a thick, scoopable dip with balanced smoky-sweet flavor that’s perfect for serving with sturdy crackers.

A cast iron pan filled with a crumbly, golden-orange dish sits on a wooden table.

Oven Baked Crab Cake Dip

This oven baked crab cake dip comes together quickly and delivers all the rich, familiar flavor of classic crab cakes in a simple, shareable form. Baked in a cast iron skillet with a crisp, seasoned topping, it makes an impressive appetizer for holidays, gatherings, or cozy evenings at home.

Breakfasts for the long holiday weekend

Make the most of Thanksgiving morning and the long holiday weekend with homemade breakfast recipes everyone can enjoy. From leisurely mornings to busy days filled with holiday preparations, these recipes make it easy to start the day with a delicious meal.

Denver breakfast mess in a skillet with eggs, potatoes, ham, and melted cheddar cheese.

Denver Breakfast Mess in a Skillet

A Denver breakfast mess in a skillet with ham, peppers, onions, tender potatoes, scrambled eggs, and melted cheddar cheese, all brought together for a fully loaded breakfast.

Stack of pumpkin spice pancakes topped with butter and syrup on a brown plate.

Pumpkin Spice Pancakes

These pumpkin spice pancakes are thick, fluffy, and made from scratch with real pumpkin puree and warm fall spices. They're an easy homemade breakfast that tastes delicious with butter, maple syrup, or your favorite toppings.

Croque madame with melted cheese and a sunny side up egg on top.

Croque Madame Sandwich

A classic croque madame sandwich made with ham, béchamel, and melted cheese, baked until hot and golden, then finished with a sunny side up egg on top.

Double chocolate pancakes topped with whipped cream and milk chocolate chips on a brown plate.

Double Chocolate Pancakes

These fluffy double chocolate pancakes are made from scratch with cocoa powder and milk chocolate chips for rich chocolate flavor in every bite. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a sweet treat.

Western egg casserole with green peppers, onions, and browned melted cheese fresh from the oven.

Western Egg Casserole

This Western egg casserole is a baked omelet filled with savory ham, peppers, onions, and cheddar cheese for a tender, flavorful breakfast that’s easy to make and serve.

Eggs Benedict topped with hollandaise sauce and seasoning on a brown plate.

Eggs Benedict with From Scratch Hollandaise

A classic eggs benedict built on a toasted English muffin with warm Canadian bacon, softly poached eggs, and a rich, from scratch hollandaise sauce spooned over the top.

Open-faced ham breakfast sandwich topped with basted eggs on a brown plate.

Open-Faced Ham Breakfast Sandwich

This open-faced ham breakfast sandwich layers grilled bread with melted Monterey Jack cheese and warm deli ham, finished with a basted egg perfectly cooked and ready to run into every bite.

Homemade apple pork sausage patties served on a brown plate.

Apple Pork Sausage

Ground pork blended with fresh apples, onions, and crushed fennel, pan-seared until tender and perfectly browned.

Baked apple cider donuts with cinnamon sugar coating cooling on a wire rack.

Baked Apple Cider Donuts

Soft, moist baked apple cider donuts with warm fall spices and a buttery cinnamon sugar coating. These cake-style donuts deliver classic cider donut flavor without frying.

Pecan rolls topped with sticky maple brown sugar glaze and chopped pecans.

Pecan Rolls

These pecan rolls are soft, pillowy sticky buns filled with cinnamon and topped with a gooey maple-brown sugar pecan topping.

Oblong golden brown twisted donut covered in cinnamon sugar sitting on a white plate.

Cinnamon Twist Donuts

Cinnamon twist donuts are soft, buttery, and coated in a perfectly sweet cinnamon-sugar topping. Their twisted shape gives them a light, fluffy texture with crispy edges, making them an irresistible treat. Serve them warm for the best flavor and texture!

Cinnamon roll topped with white icing sitting on a small brown and white dish.

Cast Iron Skillet Cinnamon Rolls

These homemade cast iron skillet cinnamon rolls are soft and fluffy with a rich, gooey cinnamon sugar filling and beautifully golden edges. Finished with creamy cream cheese icing, they're perfect for weekend mornings and holiday breakfasts.

Three muffins sitting in a triangle on a wooden surface with a green and white cloth next to them.

Guilt Free Carrot Muffins

These wholesome carrot muffins are naturally sweetened, packed with warm spices, and perfect for a nourishing snack. Made with a mix of all-purpose and oat flour, plus flax meal for added nutrition, they’re a guilt-free treat you can enjoy any time of day.

Gluten free pancakes served with sliced bananas, whipped cream, and scattered chocolate and peanut butter chips.

Gluten Free Farmhouse Pancakes

This gluten free pancake recipe makes soft, fluffy pancakes with golden edges and a tender texture. Made from scratch with almond flour and coconut flour, they're perfect for a homemade breakfast.

Pumpkin crumb muffin with cinnamon streusel topping and vanilla icing on a cooling rack.

Pumpkin Crumb Muffins

Pumpkin crumb muffins are soft, moist muffins made with real pumpkin and topped with a buttery cinnamon crumb topping and sweet vanilla icing. They're easy to make and perfect for fall baking.

Three slices of amish zucchini bread on a slate board with the tip of a bread knife visible in front of them.

Amish Zucchini Bread

This Amish zucchini bread is quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. It’s moist with a perfect balance of spices, making it a delicious treat for fall or any time of year. The rich, cinnamon-nutmeg flavor combined with the freshness of zucchini makes it an irresistible addition to your baking repertoire.

Orange colored bagels sitting in a pile on a wooden surface.

Pumpkin Bagel Recipe

This pumpkin bagel recipe brings cozy fall flavor to a breakfast classic. These homemade bagels are hearty, chewy, and perfectly seasoned with warm pumpkin spice. They’re easy to make and freeze beautifully, so you can enjoy a little taste of autumn any time of year.

Stacked pieces of french toast pastries with blueberries and almonds visible in them.

Blueberry Bostock

Blueberry bostock is a sweet, buttery breakfast delight that combines tender brioche, rich frangipane, and juicy blueberries. Perfectly balanced with hints of almond and honey, this French-inspired treat is simple to make and guaranteed to impress at brunch or as a cozy afternoon snack.

Pumpkin smoothie in a ball flute mason jar topped with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon with a black straw in it.

Pumpkin Spice Smoothie Recipe

This pumpkin spice smoothie recipe blends real pumpkin, warm spices, and natural sweetness into a creamy drink. It’s a quick, easy way to enjoy your favorite fall flavors — perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a midday treat.

Maple walnut scones topped with maple icing arranged on a black serving board.

Maple Walnut Scones

Buttery maple walnut scones packed with chopped walnuts and topped with a rich maple icing.

Cinnamon roll scones drizzled with vanilla glaze on a black slate board.

Cinnamon Roll Scones

Tender, buttery cinnamon scones topped with a crisp cinnamon-sugar crust and a sweet vanilla glaze finish.

Eight pumpkin cranberry scones cooling on a black wire rack.

Pumpkin Cranberry Scones

Tender pumpkin scones with tart dried cranberries, served with homemade cranberry honey butter.

Peanut butter scones with chocolate chips arranged on a round brown plate.

Peanut Butter Scones

These peanut butter scones are rich, tender homemade scones filled with peanut butter flavor, chocolate chips, and peanut butter chips with lightly crisp golden edges.

Apple Cheddar Scones on a black slate board.

Apple Cheddar Scones

Tender apple cheddar scones filled with tender apples and extra sharp cheddar cheese, baked until golden brown with a crisp exterior and a buttery, tender crumb.

Warm Up Your Menu With Homemade Soups

Homemade soups are a delicious way to start Thanksgiving dinner or enjoy a comforting meal throughout the holiday weekend. These Thanksgiving soup recipes bring seasonal flavor and homemade goodness to your holiday menu.

Turkey rice soup with chunks of tender turkey, wild rice, carrots, and celery in a black cast iron Dutch oven.

Turkey Rice Soup

This homemade turkey rice soup combines tender turkey, wild rice, and vegetables in a rich, savory broth. Easy to make in one pot, it's a hearty, comforting meal and a delicious way to use leftover Thanksgiving turkey.

Creamy, light green soup in a white bowl with swirls of cream and olive oil and chopped fresh dill on top.

French Celery Soup Recipe

This French celery soup recipe centers on celeriac, using a small number of well-chosen ingredients and gentle technique to build a smooth, savory soup with depth and balance. Apples quietly round out the flavor, while a restrained finish keeps the soup clean and rooted in traditional cooking. It’s a from-scratch winter soup that relies on careful handling rather than extra ingredients.

Creamy bowl of soup with peppers and sausage visible in it sitting on a striped cutting board with a spoon.

Creamy Sausage and Pepper Soup

This creamy sausage and pepper soup is a quick, flavorful dish that's perfect for busy nights. With its rich combination of sausage, bell peppers, and a creamy broth, it’s ready in just 30 minutes and made in one pot. Whether you're serving it for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this soup is sure to satisfy.

A bowl of soup that has red cabbage, carrots, and potatoes in it, topped with a dollop of sour cream and chopped fresh dill.

Polish Red Cabbage Soup Recipe

This Polish red cabbage soup recipe is a traditional sour-sweet winter soup built on balance, not excess. Careful timing, restrained acidity, and a single potato working quietly in the broth create a soup with depth, clarity, and purpose — exactly the way this style of soup is meant to be made.

Bowl of broccoli soup on a striped cutting board with a spoon, red cloth, and dish if shredded cheese next to it.

Traditional Italian Broccoli Soup

Italian broccoli soup is rustic and comforting with fresh broccoli, garlic, herbs, and just a touch of heat. Blended until smooth with tender pieces left throughout, it’s finished with rice and parmesan for a hearty bowl that's as cozy as it is satisfying.

Vegetable soup topped with shredded parmesan cheese in a white bowl.

Traditional Italian Zucchini Soup Recipe

This traditional Italian zucchini soup recipe is built the way simple vegetable soups have been made for generations — with a clean broth, restrained seasoning, and vegetables that are allowed to do the work. Celery seed quietly defines the flavor, giving the soup its distinctive character without overpowering the pot. It’s a practical, from-scratch way to turn everyday vegetables into a deeply satisfying meal.

A bowl of green soup on a stone slab with autumn leaves next to it.

Creamy Acorn Squash Soup Recipe

This cozy fall soup brings out the deep, nutty flavor of roasted acorn squash with warm spices and a velvety finish. It’s a simple recipe that makes the most of seasonal produce and is easy to blend smooth for a comforting bowlful on chilly days.

Creamy soup topped with mushroom and scallion slices in a white bowl with a spoon in it.

Traditional Ukrainian Mushroom Soup

A hearty, creamy Ukrainian mushroom soup with a deep, rich umami flavor. This simple, comforting soup is easy to make and filled with wholesome ingredients like mushrooms, potatoes, and thyme.

Spoon scooping yellow split pea soup with visible carrots from blue ceramic bowl.

Savory Yellow Split Pea Soup

Yellow split pea soup simmered in chicken broth until the peas break down into a thick, smooth texture. This hearty stovetop soup cooks into a savory, spoonable bowl that highlights the natural body of split peas and the depth of a well-made broth.

Bring something saucy to the table

Explore homemade pasta and sauce recipes that bring rich flavor and variety to your Thanksgiving menu. These from-scratch recipes are perfect for creating delicious dishes to serve during the holiday celebration.

Baked pumpkin pasta with ziti, melted cheese, ricotta, fresh herbs, and smoked paprika.

Baked Pumpkin Pasta

This baked pumpkin pasta combines tender ziti with a creamy pumpkin sauce, fresh herbs, and five cheeses, then bakes until hot and melted for a hearty fall main dish or side.

Linguine pasta topped with orange sauce and three fresh sage leaves on a black plate.

Pumpkin Alfredo Sauce

This rich and flavorful pumpkin alfredo sauce blends warm fall notes with the savory depth of garlic, sage, and asiago. It’s an easy way to bring a touch of autumn comfort to pasta, gnocchi, or roasted vegetables — all in just minutes.

Creamy mushroom macaroni and cheese with cavatappi pasta in a black cast iron skillet.

Mushroom Macaroni and Cheese

Mushroom macaroni and cheese combines tender pasta and savory sautéed mushrooms with a rich, creamy three-cheese sauce. Baked in a cast iron skillet, it's a hearty homemade side dish or satisfying meatless meal.

Creamy white sauce with mushrooms visible in it in a white bowl on a wooden surface.

Brandy Cream Sauce Recipe

This brandy cream sauce brings a touch of elegance to the table with very little effort. It comes together quickly, delivers deep flavor from simple ingredients, and works beautifully with chicken, pork, beef, seafood, or a bowl of pasta. A dependable, versatile sauce you'll reach for often.

Make the most of leftovers

Turn your Thanksgiving leftovers into delicious homemade meals that are every bit as satisfying as the holiday feast. These leftover Thanksgiving recipes make it easy to enjoy the flavors of the holiday in entirely new ways.

Grilled leftover turkey sandwich cut in half, showing layers of roasted turkey, savory stuffing, cranberry relish, and cheddar cheese.

Grilled Leftover Turkey Sandwich

This grilled leftover turkey sandwich combines roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry relish, and melted cheddar cheese on golden, buttery toasted bread. An easy, delicious way to enjoy Thanksgiving leftovers.

Crispy mashed potato patties with browned edges and visible pieces of green scallion.

Mashed Potato Patties

This mashed potato patty recipe turns leftover mashed potatoes into tender potato cakes with a crispy, golden outside and soft center. These easy leftover mashed potato patties are delicious for breakfast, served as a simple lunch, or paired with your favorite main dish for dinner.

Shredded turkey coated in a reddish brown sauce in a cast iron skillet with a wooden spoon resting on the edge of it.

Pulled Turkey BBQ Recipe

This pulled turkey bbq recipe turns leftover turkey into a rich, flavorful meal that tastes completely fresh again. The quick homemade sauce blends sweet and tangy notes perfectly, making it an easy, comforting dish to enjoy after the holidays or anytime you’ve got turkey on hand.

Turkey risotto with shredded turkey, broccoli, and creamy Arborio rice filling a black cast iron skillet.

Turkey Risotto

Creamy turkey risotto with leftover turkey, tender broccoli, and Parmesan cheese. An easy, flavorful Italian-inspired dinner made from scratch.

Handheld meat pies baked until golden brown and arranged on a serving plate.

Handheld Meat Pies

These handheld meat pies feature a flaky homemade lard crust filled with savory turkey, potatoes, vegetables, and rich gravy. A hearty, old fashioned way to turn leftover turkey into a satisfying meal.

From-scratch basics behind the feast

A great Thanksgiving dinner starts with the basics, and making your own kitchen staples adds fresh, homemade flavor to your holiday recipes. Explore these from-scratch essentials to use as ingredients while preparing your Thanksgiving feast.

Bowl of homemade pumpkin puree with a thick, smooth orange texture.

Homemade Pumpkin Puree

Pie Crust From Scratch

This pie crust from scratch is made with just four simple ingredients for a tender, flaky homemade crust. The recipe makes enough dough for a double-crust pie and works beautifully for both sweet and savory fillings.

White bowl filled with homemade whipped cream.

Small Batch Whipped Cream

This small batch whipped cream is light, smooth, and lightly sweetened, making it the perfect topping for pies, cakes, fresh fruit, hot chocolate, and other favorite desserts.

Homemade brown sugar with a soft, moist texture in a dark brown bowl.

Homemade Brown Sugar

This homemade brown sugar recipe turns just two ingredients into soft, fresh brown sugar in minutes. Make exactly what you need for any recipe that calls for brown sugar.

three different butter logs sitting on a table with slices cut off at the end of them.

Butter Garlic Medallions

These creamy, flavorful garlic butter medallions are a game-changer for home cooking. Made with roasted garlic and rich butter, they melt beautifully over meats, vegetables, and fresh bread. Keep a batch in the freezer to enhance your meals with a quick, effortless burst of flavor whenever you need it.

Spicy cranberry mustard in a small glass bowl with fresh cranberries and jalapeño peppers surrounding it.

Homemade Spicy Cranberry Mustard

This homemade cranberry mustard recipe combines tart fresh cranberries, honey, Dijon mustard, and jalapeño for a sweet, tangy condiment with a vibrant spicy kick.

Two hands shaping a chunk of homemade butter into a rectangle, one with a wooden paddle in it.

Farmhouse Style Homemade Butter

Farmhouse style homemade butter is one of the most direct and traditional ways to work with cream in the kitchen. Using nothing more than heavy cream and a simple technique, cream turns into fresh butter and buttermilk. It’s a practical, repeatable skill that works whether you’re using raw cream or store-bought cream.

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Diane Gail says:

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I had so much fun putting this collection together — it’s filled with recipes that make the holiday feel a little more handmade and a lot less hectic. I’d love to hear which one you’re planning to try first, or what dish always finds its way onto your Thanksgiving table.
~ Diane Gail

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