What are you having for Thanksgiving Dinner? Still looking for meal inspiration? Look no further! Here is what we are having in our home with some helpful tips sprinkled in! Just excuse the bad pictures, they are a lesson to me to take better pictures this year!
Turkey-licious
This year we will be having a traditional roast turkey instead of fried turkey.
My husband is the family turkey fryer…
and the US Army has decided he must work this Thanksgiving. So sadly no fried turkey here. Boo!
I start my turkey off with a turkey “bath” or brine. Brining helps allow for a super juicy and flavorful turkey!
I like Alton Brown’s explanation… I’m a’ll about the science and cooking.
Just note that he does not include a recipe. But I have one right HERE.
For the turkey I rub 2 sticks of margarine and generously sprinkle with poultry seasoning.
I also stuff the cavity and add aromatics like onion, celery and fresh sprigs of thyme. Cover with foil and roast based on size.
As I mention I stuff my bird. Yes, I know this is controversial. I also make a pan of stuffing.
I make Bread and Celery Stuffing. This is the same stuffing I ate growing up and I can remember my dad making. I have converted my husband who grew up on the stuff from a box.
You can use any type of bread, store-bought, homemade, white or whole wheat. I do love to load this up with fresh thyme leaves.
The Side Dishes!
Mashed Potatoes are up next on the menu!
While I do have a basic recipe I have never taken the time to write it up. It is simple… red potatoes, garlic, butter, sour cream and season salt. I eyeball it and mash them by hand.
Mashed Potatoes can be problematic for some so Allrecipes.com has made some videos with helpful how to save your spuds and be a Thanksgiving Hero tips.
How to fix Lumpy Mashed Potatoes
How to fix Gluey Mashed Potatoes
Corn Casserole is another side my family loves and I make every year.The cheese on top really puts this dish over the top!
Then there are the Sweet Potatoes
I add oatmeal to the topping and marshmallows, just because I can.
Mac and Cheese will be part of the line up.
I use a recipe using a béchamel sauce/white sauce and a variety of cheeses and a few spices and baked.
We will have homemade Creamed Corn. I made it for the first time last year and it was a huge hit!
Finally I will also be making some steamed green beens.
My Mom will also be bringing Baked Butter Beans , Collard Greens and Marshmallow Salad.
All of the little extras that round out the meal!
Do you like gravy? Have you perfected the perfect mashed potato and gravy volcano? Here is a collection from Allrecipes.com some great gravy recipes. I make a classic simple gravy from the pan drippings. Although I have to say the make ahead gravy recipes look tempting!
Do you have problems making gravy and skip it and buy the jar stuff? Never fear Allrecipes can make you a gravy making guru! Gravy too thin or does it turn out lumpy? Check out these helpful hints-
I will also be making Cranberry Sauce. Say so long to the stuff in the can. Once you try this there will be no going back.
Deviled Eggs will be part of our Thanksgiving day feast.
Rolls and biscuits will be part of the day as well. The biscuit recipe I use can be found HERE.
To round out the extras we will also have some relish trays.
Give Me Dessert!
Our family keeps our desserts pretty classic.
Pumpkin Pie will be topping our dessert list.
Apple Pie will be making an appearance as well.
Cherry too!
I follow this recipe for my pie crust but I use half shortening/half butter and add sugar. About a tablespoon for a double crust recipe. I also cover the edges of my pie crust to help keep them from getting too dark.
If your crust gets too dark never fear as Allrecipe’s has some helpful tips of how to save your pies!
I hope I was able to help you with some Thanksgiving menu inspiration! Now, what is on your menu?