Mom’s 17 Thanksgiving recipes that finally beat Pinterest

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Forget scrolling Pinterest for hours only to end up with dishes that look like a “nailed it” meme. Mom’s 17 Thanksgiving recipes are here to save the day with reliable options that keep everyone happy. From crowd-pleasers to those “why didn’t I think of that?” moments, these recipes make holiday prep easy. One bite, and the room’s too busy eating to judge!

A closeup of a bowl of Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup.
Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Au Gratin Potato Stacks on a white plate.
Au Gratin Potato Stacks. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Getting everyone around the table is easy when you whip up a batch of Au Gratin Potato Stacks. They slide right off the plate and into conversation starters with their crisp edges and creamy centers. You won’t have leftovers because people will keep coming back until they’re all gone. They’re not just a treat, they’re a highlight of Thanksgiving tables.
Get the Recipe: Au Gratin Potato Stacks

Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

A bowl of red pepper and tomato soup next to a plate of bread and a spoon.
Red Pepper & Tomato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

If you want a cozy starter, opt for Red Pepper & Tomato Soup. This soup brings a gentle, comforting warmth perfect for the chill that Thanksgiving can sometimes bring. It’s a blend of simplicity and tradition that never fails to gather people together. Plus, it’s a reliable crowd-pleaser, perfect before the main feast.
Get the Recipe: Red Pepper & Tomato Soup

Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

A white bowl filled with seasoned roasted sweet potato cubes, garnished with chopped herbs, with a metal serving spoon on the side and a printed napkin partially visible.
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Shake things up at Thanksgiving with Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes; they add a pop of color and crispness that contrast the usual rich, soft sides. They’re done quick in the air fryer, letting you focus on other parts of the meal. Truly, these cubes are a nifty little addition to the feast, offering something a bit different. And they’re especially good for grabbing and dipping.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes

Turkey Brownie Cupcakes

Pieces of Turkey brownies served on a white plate beside a bowl of M&Ms.
Turkey Brownie Cupcakes. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Who says only mains get to steal the spotlight at Thanksgiving? Turkey Brownie Cupcakes are here to bring joy right through dessert. This playful twist brings together a favorite holiday bird and sweet chocolatey goodness in one fun package. Perfect for both kids and adults, these cupcakes are prove that you can have a bit of fun with tradition!
Get the Recipe: Turkey Brownie Cupcakes

Greek Green Beans

Greek Green Beans served on a white rectangular plate.
Greek Green Beans. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Keeping things light and bright on the side, we have Greek Green Beans. They’re a fantastic addition for those seeking something a bit lighter among the hearty spread. These green beans offer a touch of the Mediterranean flair without overpowering the traditional Thanksgiving elements. What a fresh way to balance out the richness of other dishes!
Get the Recipe: Greek Green Beans

Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

A glass of Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned garnished with sliced apples on a skewer.
Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Toast the festive season with a Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned, a nostalgic twist on a classic cocktail. Its subtle hints of apple pie infuse seamlessly with the robust old fashioned, capturing the essence of Thanksgiving in a glass. It’s the perfect companion for winding down after a fulfilling meal. This cocktail doesn’t just warm the body; it warms the spirit.
Get the Recipe: Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Sauteed Beet Greens with Pancetta on a white plate.
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta brings an unexpected burst of color and texture to your Thanksgiving table. This dish pairs the earthiness of beet greens with the savory crispness of pancetta, balancing the richness of your holiday spread. It’s a welcome change for those looking for something different yet still fitting for the occasion. This dish is all about enhancing what’s often overlooked.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta

Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour

A glass of Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour.
Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

After the turkey and before the pies, why not refresh the palate with Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour? This cocktail mixes the deep flavors of smoked whiskey with the sweet touch of maple, creating a memorable drink that’s ideal for autumn celebrations. It’s both a conversation starter and a soothing sipper. Enjoy it as you transition from dinner to dessert, setting the mood with its smoky sweetness.
Get the Recipe: Grant’s Smoky Maple Sour

Sunshine Salad

Sunshine salad with slices of oranges in the center served on a white plate.
Sunshine Salad. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

For a salad that’s as vibrant as it is tasty, try adding Sunshine Salad to your Thanksgiving menu. Its lively colors and fresh textures offer a crisp counterpoint to heavier traditional dishes. This salad not only brightens the table but also offers a refreshing taste. It’s like a burst of sunshine on a plate, exactly what you need amidst the hearty fare.
Get the Recipe: Sunshine Salad

Traeger Smoked Turkey

A smoked turkey on a wooden cutting board.
Traeger Smoked Turkey. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Want to showcase your smoking skills this Thanksgiving? Traeger Smoked Turkey is the way to go. Smoking the turkey infuses it with incredible depth of flavor that oven roasting just can’t match. This centerpiece is bound to impress your guests with its juicy interior and flavorful crust. It’s not just a meal; it’s a showstopper.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Beef Wellington Bites

Beef Wellington Bites on a white plate with sauce in the middle.
Beef Wellington Bites. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Beef Wellington Bites are a classy way to start your Thanksgiving meal. They pack all the flavors of the traditional dish into a one-bite wonder that’s perfect for appetizers. No fork or knife needed here – just pop them in and enjoy the richness. It’s an elegant addition that brings a touch of fancy to your holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington Bites

Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce

Two bowls of cranberry sauce on a wooden cutting board.
Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

For those looking to cut down on sugar without sacrificing tradition, Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce is the answer. This version keeps all the tangy, fruity goodness of classic cranberry sauce, just without the sugar. It complements the turkey and sides just as well as its sugared counterpart. Plus, it’s a considerate option for guests who are watching their sugar intake.
Get the Recipe: Sugar-Free Cranberry Sauce

Wild Rice Salad

Wild rice salad served on a white rectangular plate.
Wild Rice Salad. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Wild Rice Salad is a hearty, flavorful addition that goes beyond the typical Thanksgiving fare. Its nutty base paired with a medley of mixed greens offers something both rewarding and nourishing. This salad can stand alone as a powerful side or work alongside other dishes without fading into the background. It’s robust, it’s rustic, and it rounds out the meal beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad

Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies

Three pieces of pumpkin brownies on a slate plate.
Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Treat your guests to Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies for a dessert that marries fall flavors with rich chocolate. This two-layer treat features a perfect balance of spiced pumpkin and decadent brownie. It’s a real crowd-pleaser that combines two favorites into one exciting dessert. Why pick between pumpkin and chocolate when you can have the best of both?
Get the Recipe: Two-layer Pumpkin Brownies

Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Two bowls of Turkey Pot Pie Soup with crackers and spoons.
Turkey Pot Pie Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

There’s comfort in every spoonful of Turkey Pot Pie Soup, a rich blend of Thanksgiving flavors in a bowl. This soup turns leftover turkey into something truly special. It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish and comforting enough to warm you from the inside out. A perfect choice for a relaxed post-Thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie Soup

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds in a shallow yellow bowl.
Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds offer a crispy, nutty twist to your Thanksgiving sides. The Brussels sprouts get beautifully caramelized, the brown butter adds a deep, nutty aroma, and the almonds provide a rewarding crunch. This combination not only tastes great but also brings a variety of textures to the table. It’s a dish that even Brussels sprouts skeptics will love.
Get the Recipe: Brussels Sprouts with Brown Butter & Almonds

Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

A closeup of a bowl of Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup.
Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Who knew that a simple blend could taste so comforting? Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup is all about bringing warmth and comfort to your Thanksgiving celebration. With its smooth texture and soothing taste, it’s an ideal starter or side that complements any main dish. It’s also a fantastic option for guests who prefer vegetarian options.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup

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