Typical Thanksgiving Dinner List: 7 Essential Dishes

19 listopada, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year when families gather around the table, share stories, and create memories over a feast that’s steeped in tradition. I absolutely love this holiday! The aroma of roasted turkey wafting through the house, the laughter of loved ones, and that warm feeling of gratitude—it all comes together beautifully. A typical Thanksgiving dinner list showcases all the beloved dishes that make this day special, from the juicy turkey to the creamy mashed potatoes, and, of course, the iconic pumpkin pie. Trust me, having a solid plan for your Thanksgiving spread makes all the difference, and I can’t wait to share my favorite recipes with you!

Ingredients List

1 whole turkey (12-15 lbs)
1 box stuffing mix
5 lbs of mashed potatoes
2 cups of gravy
1 can of cranberry sauce
4 cups of green bean casserole
3 lbs of sweet potatoes
1 whole pumpkin pie
1 dozen dinner rolls
1 stick of unsalted butter

How to Prepare Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). This is crucial to ensure your turkey cooks evenly and thoroughly.
While the oven is heating up, let’s get that turkey ready! Remove the giblets from the cavity, then rinse the turkey under cool water and pat it dry with paper towels. Season it generously with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs. Place it breast-side up in a large roasting pan.
Next, it’s time to cook the turkey. You’ll want to roast it for about 13-15 minutes per pound. For a 12-15 lb turkey, this typically means around 3 to 4 hours. You can baste it with its own juices every 30-45 minutes for that golden, crispy skin. Just remember: don’t open the oven door too often!
While the turkey is roasting, prepare the stuffing according to the package instructions. You can add sautéed onions, celery, or even some chopped apples for a twist!
Now, let’s tackle those mashed potatoes! Peel and chop the potatoes, then boil them in salted water until they’re fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain them, then mash with a stick of butter, a splash of milk, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Yum!
For the green bean casserole, combine cooked green beans with cream of mushroom soup and crispy fried onions in a baking dish. Bake it according to the instructions on the soup can, usually about 25-30 minutes at 350°F (175°C).
Don’t forget about those sweet potatoes! Peel and cut them into chunks, then boil until soft. Mash them with a little butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon for a sweet side that steals the show!
In the last half-hour of cooking, heat up your gravy and cranberry sauce in separate pots on the stove. This way, they’re warm and ready to serve when the turkey is done.
When the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C), take it out, let it rest for at least 20-30 minutes before carving. This will keep all those delicious juices in!
Finally, serve up that glorious turkey alongside all the sides, and don’t forget to finish with a slice of pumpkin pie for dessert. Enjoy the feast and the company!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It captures the essence of tradition, reminding us all why we gather around the table each year.
Preparing a typical Thanksgiving dinner is surprisingly straightforward, even for those new to cooking!
Each dish complements the others beautifully, creating a harmonious feast that everyone will enjoy.
It’s a fantastic way to bring family and friends together, sharing laughter and making memories over delicious food.
You’ll have the chance to personalize your menu with family favorites, making each Thanksgiving unique.
And let’s not forget the leftovers—who doesn’t love a turkey sandwich the next day?

Tips for Success

To truly nail your typical Thanksgiving dinner, I’ve got a few pro tips that’ll make your life easier and your meal more delicious! First, prep as much as you can the day before—peel and chop your veggies, and even make the stuffing. This way, you won’t be scrambling on the big day.

Also, don’t forget to let your turkey rest after roasting; this is key for juicy meat! Basting is great, but if you’re short on time, just rub the skin with butter before roasting for that lovely golden color. Finally, taste as you go—this ensures every dish is seasoned just right. Trust me, your guests will appreciate it!

Nutritional Information

When savoring a plate of this typical Thanksgiving dinner, you can expect some hearty numbers! Each serving is estimated to contain around 1,500 calories, with 70g of fat, 80g of protein, and 200g of carbohydrates. You’ll also find about 25g of sugar and 15g of fiber in there. Keep in mind, these values are based on typical ingredient brands, so they might vary a bit depending on what you use. Enjoy every bite!

FAQ Section

What’s the best way to thaw a frozen turkey?
The safest way to thaw a frozen turkey is in the refrigerator. Plan for about 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey. So, if you have a 12-pound turkey, give yourself at least three days! This method keeps the turkey at a safe temperature and ensures juicy meat.

Can I prepare side dishes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many sides, like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole, can be made a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge and reheat them before serving. This will save you time on the day of your typical Thanksgiving dinner!

How do I know when the turkey is done?
The best way to check is with a meat thermometer. Insert it into the thickest part of the thigh; it should read at least 165°F (74°C). This ensures your turkey is safely cooked but still juicy and delicious.

What should I do with leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to four days. I love making turkey sandwiches or turkey soup with mine! Get creative and enjoy those holiday flavors a little longer.

Can I make my own gravy?
Yes! Making gravy from your turkey drippings is easier than you might think. Just save the drippings after roasting, combine them with a little flour or cornstarch, and whisk until smooth. The flavor is unbeatable!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After your incredible Thanksgiving feast, you’ll likely have some delicious leftovers! To store them properly, let everything cool down to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. This helps maintain flavor and prevents sogginess. I recommend dividing the turkey, sides, and desserts into separate containers for easy access later.

Leftovers can be kept in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheating is key! For the turkey, slice what you need and warm it in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. The sides can usually be reheated in the microwave or on the stovetop. Just add a splash of water or broth to keep things moist. Enjoy those tasty flavors all over again!

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to a typical Thanksgiving dinner, the right accompaniments can elevate your feast to new heights! For beverages, I highly recommend serving a crisp white wine, like a Chardonnay, or a fruity red, such as Pinot Noir, to complement the rich flavors of turkey and sides. If you’re looking for a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider is a festive choice that everyone will love!

As for additional side dishes, consider a fresh salad with mixed greens, cranberries, and walnuts for a refreshing crunch. Maybe some roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze for a touch of sweetness? And, of course, don’t forget about the classic cornbread or a savory butternut squash soup to warm up those chilly fall evenings. Trust me, these additions will make your Thanksgiving spread even more memorable!

Z nadrukami

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O mnie

Cześć, nazywam się Julia, jestem sercem Vihaad Rrzepisy i pasjonatką dobrej kuchni. Moja miłość do gotowania zaczęła się w dzieciństwie, inspirowana pysznymi posiłkami mojej babci. Dziś dzielę się smacznymi przepisami, które łączą ludzi poprzez wspólne delektowanie się jedzeniem.