Hey, hey! We're closing in on the big bird day!
I love coming up with new twists on traditional recipes! But then again, there’s something oh-so comforting about making the recipes I grew up with.
That's why it seems like most Thanksgivings, I go back to the same core recipes I’ve made so many times I could probably stir, whisk, and baste them in my sleep.
These are 17 basic classics I rely on year after year. In my humble opinion, they're the turkey day recipes every hostess or cook should master, then build upon later with your own twists.
Or, you can just keep the same old classics, classics as they should be!
17 classics every Thanksgiving cook should master
- How to Cook a Turkey
Your no-panic guide to the juiciest bird on the block.
- My Favorite Turkey Brine (Wet & Dry Options)
Because a brined bird is basically a guaranteed win.
- The BEST Turkey Stock
The secret weapon that makes gravy, leftover turkey noodle soup, and turkey pot pie legendary.
- Turkey Gravy from Drippings
Liquid gold that saves dry turkey … and your cooking rep.
- Cranberry Sauce (Ready in 5 Minutes!)
A tart, sparkly little sidekick that brightens everything it's spooned upon.
- Classic Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy, silky, and built to hold heroic amounts of gravy.
- Easy Classic Stuffing
Bread, butter, herbs — the holy trinity of Thanksgiving comfort.
- Brown Sugar Glazed Carrots
Sweet, shiny carrots that trick you into feeling like you're eating healthy.
- Green Bean Casserole
Crunchy topping + creamy beans = a holiday essential.
- 5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Creamed Corn
The easiest side dish ever — toss in, turn her on, and make extra room in the oven.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Crispy, caramelized sprouts that convert even the skeptics — aka ME!
- Candied Sweet Potatoes
Buttery, caramel-sauced sweet potato rounds that may require a nap afterwards.
- Homemade Mac and Cheese
The creamy, baked, crispy-topped mac everyone “just takes a little” of. Oh, sure.
- No-Knead Dinner Rolls
My grandma's soft, fluffy rolls that basically serve as gravy shovels.
- The Best All-Butter Pie Crust
Flaky and buttery, and so easy to make.
- The BEST Pecan Pie (No Corn Syrup!)
Nutty, gooey, and my husband's favorite.
- Easiest Pumpkin Pie
Smooth, spiced perfection — my favorite Thanksgiving mic-drop.
I'm sure there are more to add, but this list will definitely get you cooking.
Is there something you'd like to see or share a recipe with me? Send it along! Just hit REPLY to this email and it will come to me.
Here's to more classics. And even some twists on them, too.
Enjoy!
Heidi
P.S. Feel free to share this email with anyone you feel like could use it.
P.P.S. If you need help with recipe ideas or a Thanksgiving timeline, be sure to check out my Thanksgiving Prep Guide!
