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I don’t know about you, but I haven’t had much time to think about my Thanksgiving menu yet. Like almost every year, it somehow snuck up on me again. My mom called me in mid-October to ask what I was having for Thanksgiving, and I said, “I have no idea! I haven’t even thought about Halloween yet!” If you need some ideas, this list has main courses (turkey and some non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes), cranberry sauce and gravy recipes, sides, and desserts. Bonus: If you’re looking for a full menu or a simple sheet pan thanksgiving dinner, jump to this section. State of Dinner has the ultimate Thanksgiving hack with this One Pan Thanksgiving Dinner!
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be an intense cooking experience. I love being in the kitchen all day and preparing a feast, but I know that’s not everyone’s cup of tea. This list highlights simple menu options, many of which seem like they would be intense to prepare, but aren’t! Confession: I don’t own an Instant Pot. I have several friends who love theirs, but I haven’t made the leap yet. Some of the recipes on this list might just have me looking for a deal on Black Friday. Instant Pot mashed potatoes in 15 minutes?? Yes Please!
Oh, and if you want a unique breakfast idea for Thanksgiving morning, try these Gluten Free Pumpkin Belgian Waffles (by Mountain Berry Eats).
Thanksgiving Mains: Turkey & More
If you’re cooking for a small group, consider a turkey breast instead of a whole turkey. It’s nice to have leftovers, but turkey breasts will cook a lot faster than a whole turkey. You can also go nontraditional with a pot pie or vegan mushroom Wellington. If you don’t want to fool with roasting in the oven, I have you covered with Instant Pot and slow cooker turkey breast recipes.
Make your main course and a side dish at the same time! This Sheet Pan Turkey and Potatoes is perfect for a one pan meal that is still completely festive and delicious. Recipe by My Kitchen Love.
Gravy & Cranberry Sauce
Sides
If you’re cooking for 2 people, I recommend two sides (OK, maybe two and a stuffing!) If you’re cooking for 4 to 6 people, I don’t recommend adding too many more sides. If you do, adjust the servings downward if you don’t want to end up with a ton of leftovers. Many website, including mine, have a feature in the recipe card portion of the post where you can adjust the servings.
These Savory Baked Pears with Gorgonzola, Walnuts, and Cranberries are incredibly easy and fast to make with delicious flavors. They bring a lot of class and allure with minimal effort! Vegan and gluten free. Recipe by Three Olives Branch.

Stuffing/Dressing
What’s the difference between stuffing and dressing? Stuffing goes inside the turkey, whereas dressing is made on its own. Confession: I still call all of it stuffing!
Dessert
Full Thanksgiving Menus


Thank you for including my Pecan Pie recipe!❤️❤️