Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition filled with gratitude, family, and of course, incredible food.
While it’s fun to experiment with modern twists and trendy recipes, there’s something truly special about sticking to the classics—the dishes that generations have shared around the table.
From golden-roasted turkey to creamy mashed potatoes and sweet, spiced pumpkin pie, these timeless recipes embody the spirit of Thanksgiving.
Classic Thanksgiving menus are all about balance: hearty mains, comforting sides, and decadent desserts that leave everyone feeling full and happy.
These dishes aren’t just delicious—they’re steeped in nostalgia, creating a feast that feels like home.
In this blog post, we’ll share 22 classic Thanksgiving menu ideas that will take you back to the heart of the holiday.
Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or an intimate dinner, these recipes will help you create a meal that’s as memorable as it is delicious.
22 Classic Thanksgiving Menu Ideas
Main Course
1-Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
The star of the table—golden, juicy, and perfectly seasoned with fresh herbs and butter.
2-Honey-Glazed Ham
A sweet and savory alternative to turkey, with a caramelized crust.
Stuffing and Dressings
3-Traditional Bread Stuffing
Cubed bread, celery, onions, and sage baked to golden perfection.
4-Cornbread Dressing
A Southern favorite with a rich, crumbly texture and bold flavors.
Potatoes
5-Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Smooth and buttery, these mashed potatoes are a must-have on every Thanksgiving table.
6-Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
A sweet and creamy side topped with gooey marshmallows.
7-Scalloped Potatoes
Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream and cheese, then baked until golden.
Vegetables
8-Green Bean Casserole
A creamy dish topped with crispy fried onions for the perfect crunch.
9-Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roasted until crispy and caramelized.
10-Honey-Glazed Carrots
Tender carrots coated in a buttery honey glaze.
11-Creamed Corn
A rich, velvety side dish that adds sweetness to the plate.
Cranberry Sauce
12-Classic Cranberry Sauce
Fresh cranberries simmered with sugar and orange zest for a tangy, sweet complement to turkey.
13-Jellied Cranberry Sauce
A nostalgic canned option that’s beloved for its simplicity.
Breads
14-Buttermilk Biscuits
Soft and flaky, perfect for sopping up gravy.
15-Classic Dinner Rolls
Light, fluffy rolls that are a staple at every holiday meal.
15-Classic Dinner Rolls
Light, fluffy rolls that are a staple at every holiday meal.
Gravy
16-Homemade Turkey Gravy
Rich, savory gravy made from turkey drippings.
Desserts
17-Pumpkin Pie
The quintessential Thanksgiving dessert with a spiced pumpkin filling and flaky crust.
18-Pecan Pie
A Southern classic with a gooey, nutty filling.
19-Apple Pie
Sweet, spiced apples nestled in a golden, buttery crust.
20-Sweet Potato Pie
Similar to pumpkin pie but with the distinct flavor of sweet potatoes.
Extras
21-Deviled Eggs
A classic appetizer that’s creamy and tangy with a hint of paprika.
22-Relish Tray
An assortment of pickles, olives, and veggies for a nostalgic pre-dinner snack.
FAQs
What makes a Thanksgiving menu “classic”?
A classic Thanksgiving menu includes time-honored dishes that have been staples for generations, like roast turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. These recipes are comforting, familiar, and steeped in tradition.
Can I make these dishes ahead of time?
Absolutely! Many classics, like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pies, can be made a day or two in advance, saving time and stress on Thanksgiving Day.
How do I balance a Thanksgiving menu?
Include a mix of rich dishes (like mashed potatoes and stuffing) with lighter options (like roasted vegetables) to ensure variety. Adding sweet and savory elements also keeps the meal interesting.
What if I have dietary restrictions to consider?
Many classic dishes can be adapted to accommodate dietary needs. For example, use gluten-free bread in stuffing or dairy-free butter in mashed potatoes.
What’s the best way to serve these dishes?
Serve family-style, with all the dishes placed on the table for everyone to pass and share. It’s a wonderful way to foster connection and create a warm, communal atmosphere.
Bottom Line
There’s a reason classic Thanksgiving dishes have stood the test of time—they’re comforting, delicious, and bring people together.
With these 22 ideas, you can create a holiday feast that honors tradition while celebrating the joy of gathering with loved ones.
Whether it’s the perfectly roasted turkey or the sweet slice of pie that brings a smile, these recipes are sure to make your Thanksgiving memorable.
Here’s to a holiday filled with gratitude, love, and incredible food. Happy Thanksgiving!