Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. I love hearing about the different traditions that everyone has, as well as all the different dishes that make it to the table. And I’m always looking for easy Thanksgiving recipes!
Coming from a Croatian family, we always have a few more traditional Croatian dishes that make it to the table. The day always starts with a fun family walk with our two dogs, and then I find myself in the kitchen, helping my mom with our Thanksgiving recipes. Then, after we have an earlier dinner, we pick a movie to go see! It is one of my favorite traditions.
While I love tradition, sometimes it is fun to shake things up a bit. I try to bring a new recipe or dish to the Thanksgiving table each year. Some things get switched out each year, but some recipes have earned a permanent spot at the table!
I went around the office and I asked our dietitians, what their favorite dishes are to make for Thanksgiving, and let me tell you, I am going to have a hard time picking which new recipe I am going to try this year. So, whether you like to keep it traditional or want a twist on a classic, you have to try these easy thanksgiving recipes out!
If you or a loved one is struggling with eating during the holiday while also managing a chronic condition, check out our other Thanksgiving blogs!
8 Easy Thanksgiving Recipes
1. Roasted Turkey Breast
Photo credit Kaitlin Eckstein
I know that most people will go for the whole bird on Thanksgiving, but turkey breast might be the way to go if you aren’t cooking for a large crowd. Hear me out! You still get turkey, you don’t have to deal with too many leftovers (because who wants to eat turkey for a straight week?) and it is SO easy. You can see how I made this turkey breast step by step by clicking here.
2. Low Carb Stuffing
Photo credit Kaitlin Eckstein
Thanksgiving is traditionally a card-heavy holiday. So finding recipes that can be lower in carbohydrate without sacrificing flavor can help balance out your plate! Try this homemade low carb stuffing with pine nuts and turkey sausage for your Thanksgiving table this year, it is a staple at Rebecca’s house.
3. Roasted Green Beans with Crunchy Almond Topping
Photo by Kaitlin Eckstein
This is a twist on the traditional (and delicious) green bean casserole. Instead of baking the beans in the traditional mushroom soup mixture, you roast the beans and top them with a delicious crunchy almond topping. Kaitlin’s family raves about this dish at Thanksgiving, and so will yours! Find the recipe here.
4. Roasted Brussel Sprouts
Photo credit Kaitlin Eckstein
Veggies are important, especially at the Thanksgiving table! Dana makes this delicious Roasted Brussel Sprout with Pistachios and Pomegranate, where you peel the sprouts so they leaves are separated and then roast them! So crispy and so delicious!
5. Twice Baked Sweet Potato
Photo by Kaitlin Eckstein
What I love most about this Twice Baked Sweet Potato recipe is that each little potato is portioned out! They are basically individual sweet potato casseroles. Sweet potatoes are an excellent source of Vitamin A and fiber, and a delicious starch option for your Thanksgiving table.
6. Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Photo by Kaitlin Eckstein
Thanksgiving can be hectic if you’re trying to cook 8 different dishes in a single oven. I like to clear up some oven or stove space by using different cooking methods like the slow cooker! Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes are a delicious and easy side dish to include on your Thanksgiving table!
7. Cranberry Gimlet
Photo credit Kaitlin Eckstein
What is the holidays without a fun cocktail or mocktail? Kaitlin makes these delicious cranberry gimlets when it is time for the festivities to really begin. It is easy, delicious and only requires a few ingredients: 2 oz vodka, 1 oz cranberry juice, 1 oz lime juice, and 1/2 oz simple syrup. You can make this into a mocktail by leaving out the vodka and adding apple cider vinegar instead.
8. Cranberry Orange Cheesecake Cups
Photo by Kaitlin Eckstein
As you can tell, I am all about the individual portions. This is a twist on my favorite Cranberry Orange Cheesecake. I make it every year! These are great because they are small, and easy to make! The cranberry sauce is a breeze too! No canned stuff over here.
What are your favorite Thanksgiving Recipes?
What are your favorite dishes to make for Thanksgiving? Let us know if the comments below! If you would like helping navigating the holidays from one of our nutrition professionals, please click here or call 301-474-2499.
Blog reviewed and updated December 2019
Klara Knezevic is a registered dietitian nutritionist based in Maryland. She has over a decade of experience in the nutrition field and currently serves as the CEO and co-owner of Rebecca Bitzer and Associates, one of the largest nutrition private practices in the country. Klara is passionate about sharing practical nutrition tips to help you feel confident in the choices that you make. Coauthor ofCooking with Food Sensitivities Survival GuideandNourished: 10 Ingredients to Happy, Healthy Eating.
