Thanksgiving Menu Ideas For The Best Holiday Celebration

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Need some inspiration for your Thanksgiving menu? At the heart of every Thanksgiving celebration is, of course, the dinner—a time for cozy celebrations and catching up with loved ones over the best and most delicious meal!

Knowing this importance, I’ve prepared this list of Thanksgiving menu ideas, from appetizers to main dishes and desserts, to ensure your holiday feast is nothing short of spectacular!

Thanksgiving Menu Ideas For The Best Holiday CelebrationPin

Thanksgiving Appetizer Ideas

Let’s set the stage with these appetizer recipes—they’re not just for setting your appetite but also for those moments when you’re waiting for someone to arrive before serving the main dish (just kidding)! 

Cranberry, Pecan, Goat Cheese, Sweet Potato Bites

My favorite part about this appetizer is the incredible flavor! It’s the perfect way to start your Thanksgiving dinner before the main dish, with roasted sweet potato slices topped with goat cheese (yum!!!), crunchy pecans, and tart cranberries! 

Cranberry, Pecan, Goat Cheese, Sweet Potato Bites
Skip the bread and use sweet potatoes instead! These Cranberry, Pecan, Goat Cheese, Sweet Potato Bites are sweet, savory and a wonderful holiday appetizer!
Check out this recipe
Cranberry, Pecan, Goat Cheese, Sweet Potato BitesPin

Salmon Bites

These Smoked Salmon Cucumber Appetizers are a brilliant choice for a Thanksgiving menu, offering a light, refreshing start that balances the typically hearty holiday fare. Their elegant appearance and delightful combination of flavors from the creamy cheese and savory smoked salmon make them perfect for setting a sophisticated tone at your Thanksgiving gathering.

Smoked Salmon Cucumber Appetizer
These smoked salmon cucumber appetizers are not only tasty but also visually appealing, making them a perfect choice for parties, celebrations, or as a light and refreshing snack. Enjoy!
Check out this recipe
Smoked Salmon Cucumber AppetizerPin

Pumpkin Soup With Coconut Milk

This Easy Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk is ideal for a Thanksgiving appetizer because it’s warming, inviting, and has a creamy texture that’s both comforting and luxurious. The subtle sweetness of the pumpkin combined with the rich coconut milk offers a lovely introduction to the feast, warming guests up for the celebratory meal ahead.

Creamy Pumpkin Soup With Coconut Milk
This was my first time making pumpkin soup with coconut milk, and I was not disappointed. It is sweeter than pumpkin soup with heavy cream (as I usually make it), but that's actually a good thing. Enjoy!
Check out this recipe
Easy Pumpkin Soup with Coconut Milk 3Pin

Sweet Corn Risotto

I’ve always loved risotto! I’m in love with its creamy texture, and using corn in risotto is such a great idea. The corn-infused vegetable stock makes the arborio rice perfectly creamy, while a touch of butter and parmesan cheese adds that extra bit of indulgence.

Sweet Corn Risotto with Crispy Pancetta
Make Sweet Corn Risotto by simmering arborio rice in corn-infused stock with aromatic vegetables & summer sweet corn. Summer comfort food!
Check out this recipe
Sweet Corn Risotto with Crispy PancettaPin

A Bread + Oil Appetizer Dipping Station

If there’s one appetizer that’s universally loved, it’s the classic combination of bread and flavored oils! I’m convinced it’s foolproof—everyone adores it (especially me!). Just slice up some baguettes, gather some olive oil, and mix in delicious flavors like lemon zest, red pepper flakes, and minced garlic to get that experience similar to your favorite restaurant appetizers.

A Bread + Oil Appetizer Dipping Station
Vist The Sweetest Occasion for loads of delicious party appetizer recipes, including this fun bread and oil dipping station!
Check out this recipe
A Bread + Oil Appetizer Dipping StationPin

Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board

Yes, here’s another classic appetizer you can’t miss—the Thanksgiving charcuterie board! It’s not just beautiful; it’s a perfect way to keep everyone happily snacking while dinner is being prepared. 

Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board
Build a gorgeous Thanksgiving charcuterie board this holiday season that will keep your hungry guests at bay in this easy to follow tutorial.
Check out this recipe
Thanksgiving Charcuterie BoardPin

Thanksgiving Main Dishes

Let’s move on to the star of the night—the main dishes! From whole roasted chicken to a mouth-watering honey mustard glazed ham, these recipes are just chef’s kiss! 

Whole Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Bacon and Celery Stuffing

Starting off with my whole roasted chicken recipe! My favorite! For this, I used bacon and celery stuffing. But this recipe has variations you can try—experiment with different herbs, nuts, or even fruits like apples for a touch of sweetness. If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some chili flakes or extra cayenne pepper to spice things up!

Whole Roasted Chicken Stuffed with Bacon and Celery
This delicious stuffed roast chicken with its crispy skin and flavorful, moist interior paired with hearty vegetables makes for a delightful meal that brings comfort and joy to any table. Enjoy the process and the feast!
Check out this recipe
recipe for stuffed chickenPin

Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham

Wow, just look at that yummy ham glazing! I love how the sweet honey mustard glaze perfectly matches the juicy ham, balancing savory and sweet flavors. I find myself craving more with every bite! 

Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham
This Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed Ham recipe is packed with flavor and is a must for the holidays! Easy to make with a few ingredients.
Check out this recipe
Crockpot Honey Mustard Glazed HamPin

Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin

You might notice I’m a little biased towards glazed recipes—I just can’t get enough of them! The blend of apricot and bacon here is the perfect mix of salty and sweet, with a tangy hint from the mustard and a spicy kick from the Cajun seasoning. Absolutely irresistible!

Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin
Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork Tenderloin Recipe : A moist and juicy cajun seasoned pork tenderloin wrapped in crispy bacon and glazed in an apricot dijon sauce! Sweet and salty pork perfection!
Check out this recipe
Apricot Glazed Bacon Wrapped Cajun Pork TenderloinPin

Holiday Baked Salmon

I know ham and turkey are the usual Thanksgiving main dishes, but check out this baked salmon recipe! It’s extremely delicious and mouth-watering. The flipping technique used ensures the salmon stays tender, juicy, and packed with flavor every time.

Holiday Baked Salmon
This holiday baked salmon is juicy, tender, baked in an incredible pomegranate sauce, and topped with pomegranate seeds, pecans, and fresh rosemary.
Check out this recipe
Holiday Baked SalmonPin

Thanksgiving Side Dishes 

I’ll not forget about our side dishes! These are essential complements to our Thanksgiving meals! 

Pumpkin Chipotle Roasting Sauce Recipe & Uses

Yes, you’ve read that right! Here’s my pumpkin chipotle roasting sauce recipe. I’m obsessed with the mix of flavors—sweet, tangy, caramelly, spicy, smoky, nutty, and savory all in one. Trust me, it’s a unique relish that’s absolutely worth trying!

Pumpkin Chipotle Roasting Sauce
This is a copycat of the famous Trader Joe's Pumpkin Chipotle Roasting Sauce. It is so flavorful – spicy, savory, sweet, smoky, tangy, and nutty! It sounds a lot, but it's amazing!
Check out this recipe
Pumpkin Chipotle Roasting Sauce RecipePin

Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi

Shake up your Thanksgiving side dishes with crispy gnocchi. These golden bites are quick to prepare and offer a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with traditional soft holiday foods.

Air Fryer Crispy Gnocchi Recipe
Enjoy the crispy goodness! Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner option or something new to impress guests, this recipe for air fryer crispy gnocchi is sure to be a hit.
Check out this recipe
air fryer crispy gnocchiPin

Caramelized Onion and Mushrooms

Caramelized Onion and Mushroom sauce is an excellent Thanksgiving side dish choice as it adds a rich, savory complement to traditional meats like turkey and ham. Its combination of sweet caramelized onions and earthy mushrooms enhances the flavors of main dishes, providing a delicious and easy-to-make addition to your holiday feast.

Caramelized Onion and Mushroom
Caramelized onion and mushroom is a top-tier choice for addition to almost every meal, especially meats. This time I served it with rib-eye steak and turkey burgers for a real gourmet feast. It is actually nothing special, but pairs with many dishes enhancing the flavors. Here is the recipe for this simple, but effective side dish!
Check out this recipe
Caramelized Onion and MushroomPin

Roasted Garlic Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes

Of course, potatoes should never be missed when it comes to side dishes! They’re just heaven-sent. You won’t be able to resist the rich, roasted garlic flavor and crave-worthy creaminess of these mashed potatoes—perfect for holiday dinners! 

Roasted Garlic Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes
Roasted Garlic Mascarpone Mashed Potatoes take the classic side dish to new heights. Perfect for holiday dinners or paired with your favorite protein.
Check out this recipe
Roasted Garlic Mascarpone Mashed PotatoesPin

Dauphinoise potatoes With Ham Hock And Mustard

Another potato dish to elevate your Thanksgiving table! This time, creamy Dauphinoise potatoes meet the rich flavors of ham hock and a touch of mustard. It’s a comforting and hearty side that perfectly matches any holiday meal (I can attest to this!), adding a savory twist to the traditional potato dish.

Dauphinoise potatoes with ham hock and mustard recipe
Creamy, cheesy and utterly gorgeous – this gratin recipe is the ultimate comfort dish.
Check out this recipe
Dauphinoise potatoes with ham hock and mustard recipePin

Harvest Salad With Quinoa And Butternut Squash

I always try to include a salad on my Thanksgiving menu, and this one is packed with seasonal goodness! Featuring roasted butternut squash, quinoa, pumpkin seeds, pecans, apple, celery, kale, pomegranate seeds, and savory feta cheese, it’s the perfect mix of flavors and textures. Such perfect addition to fall or winter meals! 

Harvest Salad with Quinoa and Butternut Squash
Harvest Salad with Quinoa is tossed in Apple Cider Vinaigrette. It’s perfect for fall and winter and a great addition to your Holiday table.
Check out this recipe
Harvest Salad with Quinoa and Butternut SquashPin

Thanksgiving Desserts

What’s a dinner without desserts? Here are some Thanksgiving desserts that will sweetly conclude your Thanksgiving celebration, satisfying everyone’s sweet tooth!

Sweet Cornbread with Fruit

Let’s kick off dessert with a sweet cornbread featuring juicy fruits! The colors itself will bring the holiday vibes to the table. This dessert is perfect for those looking for a delightful change from traditional pies and cakes!

Cornbread with Berries
Enjoy this delightful Cornbread with Berries as a special treat that’s sure to bring smiles and a bit of sweetness to your table! A wonderful addition to your holiday celebrations that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat.
Check out this recipe
cornbread with berriesPin

Orange Cheesecake

Orange Cheesecake is my favorite Thanksgiving dessert because its refreshing citrus flavor offers a delightful contrast to the rich and savory elements of the holiday meal.

Orange Cheesecake Recipe
Dive into this luscious Orange Cheesecake for your next gathering or as a special weekend treat. Its unique citrus flavor and creamy texture make it a crowd-pleaser for any occasion!
Check out this recipe
orange cheesecake the best cheesecakePin

No-Bake Pistachio Cheesecake

No-Bake Pistachio Cheesecake is an ideal choice for Thanksgiving dessert right after orange cheesecake because its rich, nutty flavor and creamy texture provide a luxurious and effortless complement, diversifying the dessert table without requiring additional oven space.

No Bake Pistachio Cheesecake
Enjoy this luxurious no-bake pistachio cheesecake as a special treat that’s sure to impress with its ease and elegance!
Check out this recipe
no bake pistachio cheesecakePin

Caramel Pecan Cheesecake

The tempting appearance alone makes me want to try this caramel pecan cheesecake! It offers all the rich, nutty flavors of a pecan pie but in a no-bake, egg-free vegan cheesecake form, which makes it simple yet perfect dessert choice.

Caramel Pecan Cheesecake (Vegan, No Bake)
Easy no bake vegan caramel pecan cheesecake with a cookie crust, creamy vanilla cheesecake, and bourbon caramel pecan topping.
Check out this recipe
Caramel Pecan Cheesecake (Vegan, No Bake)Pin

Delicious Apple Pie Cupcakes

These apple pie cupcakes are my absolute favorite, especially for Thanksgiving—they capture the flavor of apple pie in a delightful cupcake form! The moist, spongy batter combined with a simple apple and cinnamon filling, topped with fluffy cinnamon-spiced buttercream—just absolutely delicious! 

Apple Pie Cupcakes That Will Thrill
These cupcakes have only the best from the baking world – rich, aromatic filling, spongy, airy cake, and creamy frosting. What more to ask for, right? They are ready in a swift and even better the next day! 10/10 recommendation for all my fellow apple pie lovers!
Check out this recipe
Apple pie cupcakes recipePin

Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies

Just take a look at these adorable bear-shaped cookies! I’m sure kids (and adults!) will adore them. Made with brown butter and maple syrup, they’re not overly sweet but packed with delicious flavor, making them perfect for any occasion! 

Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear Cookies
These bear-shaped shortbread cookies are flavored with brown butter and maple syrup.
Check out this recipe
Brown Butter-Maple Shortbread Bear CookiesPin

Mexican Apple Pie Recipe

One of my go-to pie recipes is this Mexican apple pie! What sets it apart is its cake-like texture and the clever arrangement of apples, which makes every slice looks picture-perfect! I especially enjoy serving it with a scoop of bourbon vanilla ice cream for a refreshing contrast.

Mexican Apple Pie
This is something between coffee cake and pie, plus it looks divine! The caramelly layer of apples on top is my favorite thing. Enjoy this moist, spongy, autumn recipe.
Check out this recipe
Mexican apple pie recipePin

Sticky Lemon Ginger Cake

I mentioned that I love glazed recipes, so here’s one of my favorites—my own recipe for sticky lemon ginger cake! It’s perfect for tea-time indulgence, with a good balance of lemon and spicy ginger flavors. This cake always brings back memories of experimenting with fresh ginger in the kitchen last fall! 

Sticky Ginger Lemon Cake
This is the best tea cake you'll ever serve! It's perfect for cozy nights at home with its rich flavors and interesting texture. Plus, it looks magazine-worthy!
Check out this recipe
Sticky Ginger Lemon CakePin

Thanksgiving Snack Ideas

Last but not least, let’s talk snacks!  Whether you’re waiting for the main course or just want a little something extra, we all need those munchies to keep us going! 

Cinnamon Rolls With Apple Pie Filling

The best snack for Thanksgiving has to be these cinnamon rolls with apple pie filling! Imagine biting into fluffy homemade rolls bursting with warm, spiced apples and topped with powdered sugar on top!

Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie Filling
Since I tried these apple-filled cinnamon rolls, I never returned to the regular ones. Hope you will enjoy them, too! 🙂
Check out this recipe
Cinnamon Rolls with Apple Pie FillingPin

Parmesan Puff Stars

These Parmesan puff stars are destined to be a crowd-pleaser—I can already picture everyone reaching for more! These cute-shaped snacks are not only deliciously cheesy but also add a delightful crunch to any holiday meal. 

Parmesan Puff Pastry Stars
You only need 2 ingredients – Parmesan cheese and puff pastry – for these adorable Parmesan puff pastry stars that taste great with wine.
Check out this recipe
Parmesan Puff Pastry StarsPin

Pumpkin Pie Tacos

Pumpkin Pie Tacos are a fantastic Thanksgiving snack idea because they combine the classic flavors of pumpkin pie in a fun, handheld format, making them a delightful and easy-to-eat treat that guests can enjoy amidst the festivities.

Pumpkin Pie Tacos
Pumpkin Pie Tacos have a warm, comforting taste, just as fall should be. Imagine a crispy taco filled with caramelly pumpkin, loaded with cinnamon and ginger. Sounds amazing, right?!
Check out this recipe
Pumpkin Pie Tacos served on a white plate with mascarponePin

Savory Pumpkin Bread

Savory Pumpkin Bread is perfect for sandwiches and serves as a delicious snack or side dish any time of day. Its versatile flavor pairs beautifully with a variety of toppings, making it a wonderful addition to any meal.

Savory Pumpkin Bread for Sandwich
Since it is pumpkin season, I wanted to surprise you with a recipe for savory pumpkin bread. Cottage cheese in the dough makes this bread high in protein, and pumpkin makes it sweet. Hope you will enjoy it!
Check out this recipe
Savory Pumpkin BreadPin

A big thank you to the creators of these recipes for Thanksgiving menu ideas. With your creativity, we have these delicious recipes that will ensure our holiday celebration is a success!

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