87 Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas Your Friends & Family Will LOVE

Thanksgiving dinner ideas are what turn a simple meal into a memory your family talks about all year.

When I hosted my very first Thanksgiving, I remember frantically flipping through cookbooks and calling my mom every hour to make sure I wasn’t forgetting something important.

Turkey? Check.

Mashed potatoes? Check.

Something green so my aunt wouldn’t comment? Check.

Over the years, I’ve learned that the best holiday spreads combine those nostalgic classics with one or two new dishes that surprise everyone in the best way.

In this post, I’ve gathered some of my favorite Thanksgiving dinner ideas and recipes. You’ll find everything from traditional mains and comforting side dishes to fresh salads, creative charcuterie boards, and even cocktails to toast with. My goal is to help you plan a menu that feels special without making you feel chained to the kitchen.

Whether you stick to the classics or try something unexpected this year, these ideas will make your table shine.

Why Curating Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas Ahead Of Time Is So Important

Planning Thanksgiving dinner can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re cooking for a crowd. There’s the turkey to roast, side dishes to prep, desserts to bake, and drinks to keep chilled. Juggling all of that while making sure everyone’s favorites are represented can turn a joyful holiday into a stressful one.

That’s why having a curated list of ideas makes such a big difference. Instead of scrambling at the last minute, you can mix and match recipes that work well together and cover every part of the meal. Traditional dishes like turkey and mashed potatoes are always welcome, but it’s also fun to add a few creative twists that make your table stand out. A colorful charcuterie board or a refreshing seasonal salad can be just as memorable as the pie at the end of the night.

With everything organized into categories, you’ll be able to plan a menu that feels balanced and inviting. This approach saves time, reduces stress, and lets you focus on what really matters: enjoying the holiday with your favorite people.

36 Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas

Traditional Thanksgiving foods have a way of making a holiday table feel warm and familiar. These are the dishes most of us grew up with, the ones that bring back memories of family gatherings and cozy kitchens.

If you want to stick to the classics this year, here’s a guide to the most iconic traditional Thanksgiving recipes, along with tips for serving them beautifully.

The 3 Traditional Thanksgiving Main Dish Recipes

Main dishes set the tone for Thanksgiving dinner. The turkey is the centerpiece, but there are other hearty options that bring comfort to the table.

• Oven Roast Turkey: Juicy and golden-brown, seasoned with herbs and butter for a classic holiday centerpiece.
• Baked Ham Glazed with Brown Sugar or Honey: A sweet and salty option that complements traditional sides and offers variety beyond turkey.
• Oven Roasted Chicken: A flavorful and tender staple that is easy to cook (or buy) and even picky eaters will enjoy. 

These mains provide the backbone of a traditional menu, pairing perfectly with every side dish and dessert on the table.

11 Traditional Thanksgiving Side Dish Ideas

Side dishes are where the meal truly shines. These classics balance comfort and flavor, giving guests plenty to choose from.

• Mashed Potatoes With Butter and Cream: Fluffy, creamy potatoes perfect for soaking up gravy.
• Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Topping: A cozy blend of sweet and nutty flavors that doubles as a side and a dessert-like treat.
• Scalloped Potatoes or Gratin: Thinly sliced potatoes layered with cream and cheese for a rich, indulgent side.
• Easy Green Bean Casserole: A staple on many holiday tables, offering creamy texture and a crunchy topping.
• Baked Four Cheese Macaroni & Cheese: A creamy, indulgent mac & cheese your most basic guests will gush over.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon: Caramelized and crispy, adding a touch of bitterness that balances heavier dishes.
• Roasted Rainbow Carrots: Sweet and earthy vegetables that add color and variety to the plate.
• Oven Roasted Corn On The Cob: Delicious corn soaked in butter and roasted to perfection.
• Fluffy Whole Wheat Dinner Rolls: Light and fluffy rolls perfect for soaking up sauces.
• Cornbread: Slightly sweet and crumbly, a nod to Southern holiday traditions.
• Biscuits: Buttery and soft, ideal for pairing with gravy or cranberry sauce.

Combining a few of these sides ensures your table feels abundant and satisfies every guest’s craving for comfort food.

6 Traditional Thanksgiving Specialty Dishes: Gravy, Stuffings, Dressings & Cranberries

Specialty dishes bring the meal together, adding layers of flavor and texture. Stuffing and cranberries are especially iconic at Thanksgiving.

• Turkey Gravy (Made from Pan Drippings): Rich and savory gravy that ties every element of the meal together.
• Bread Stuffing (Classic with Celery, Onion, and Herbs): Savory, aromatic stuffing that soaks up turkey drippings beautifully.
• Cornbread Stuffing or Dressing: A Southern twist with a slightly sweet flavor and crumbly texture.
• Oyster Stuffing: A coastal tradition with briny oysters that add depth and richness.
• Apple Cider Cranberry Sauce: Tangy and sweet, offering a bright contrast to savory mains.
• Cranberry Relish (Fresh Cranberries with Citrus or Nuts): A fresh, textured option that adds brightness and crunch to the plate.

These specialties balance the richness of turkey and potatoes, offering both nostalgia and vibrant flavors.

4 Traditional Thanksgiving Salad Ideas

Even with hearty dishes, salads add freshness and crunch to the holiday spread. They lighten the meal without feeling out of place.

• Waldorf Salad With Apples, Walnuts & Yogurt: Crisp and sweet, this classic salad is creamy yet refreshing.
• Ambrosia Salad With Citrus, Coconut & Marshmallows: A retro favorite that blends fruit and fluff for a nostalgic side.
• Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad: Tender chicken tossed with cranberries and pecans for a hearty salad that can double as a side or main dish.
• Healthy Farro Salad with Kale, Cranberries & Goat Cheese: Nutty farro, hearty kale, tart cranberries and creamy goat cheese.

Including at least one salad ensures variety and gives guests something fresh to enjoy alongside richer dishes.

5 Traditional Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

Desserts are the grand finale of Thanksgiving, and pies are the stars of the show. These classics evoke fall flavors and sweeten the holiday table.

• Pumpkin Pie: A spiced custard pie that defines Thanksgiving dessert tradition.
• Classic Pecan Pie Tart: Nutty pecan filling in a tart shell for a rich yet elegant twist on traditional pecan pie.
• Apple Pie: Sweet-tart apples encased in flaky crust for a comforting finish to the meal.
• Sweet Potato Pie: A Southern specialty with a smooth, spiced filling similar to pumpkin pie.
• Mince Pie: A historic dessert featuring spiced dried fruits, less common today but deeply traditional.

Offering a mix of pies ensures there’s something for everyone, from nut lovers to fruit fans.

7 Thanksgiving Drink Ideas

Drinks add warmth and festivity to Thanksgiving celebrations. From cozy sippers to sparkling cocktails, these pair perfectly with the meal.

• Spiked Apple Cider: Warm, spiced cider with a splash of bourbon or rum for holiday cheer.
• Mulled Wine or Spiced Wine: Aromatic red wine simmered with spices, perfect for sipping by the fire.
• Eggnog: Rich, creamy, and lightly spiced… a holiday favorite for generations.
• Pear and Ginger Martini: A crisp cocktail with sweet pear and warming ginger.
• Cranberry Margarita: A tart and refreshing twist on a classic margarita.
• Espresso Martini: Coffee plus alcohol… who’s complaining?
• Maple Old Fashioned: A fall-inspired take on the classic cocktail with maple syrup sweetness.

Most folks prefer alcohol in their holiday drinks, but I’ve included a full non-alcoholic list in the second half of this guide.

Part 2: 51 Alternative & Non-Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to stick to the classics to feel festive. If you want to surprise your guests with bold flavors, global twists, or lighter options, these alternative ideas bring fresh energy to the holiday table while still keeping the cozy fall vibe.

6 Alternative Thanksgiving Main Dish Ideas

Seafood

For mains that go beyond turkey, these dishes offer rich flavors and variety.

• Roast Duck with Orange Glaze: Crispy-skinned duck paired with a citrusy glaze for a sophisticated centerpiece.
• Herb-Crusted Prime Rib: Tender beef roast coated with fresh herbs and garlic, perfect for meat lovers.
• Teriyaki Salmon with Sesame Asparagus: Tender salmon fillets glazed in sweet-savory teriyaki sauce, paired with crisp asparagus.
• Barbecue Brisket or Smoked Pork Shoulder: Slow-cooked and smoky, ideal for a casual yet flavorful feast.
• Stuffed Acorn Squash (Vegetarian or Vegan): Colorful squash halves filled with grains, nuts, and herbs for a plant-based main.
• Twenty-Minute Tortellini Bake: This easy, indulgent dish will satisfy your pasta lovers while providing a more indulgent vegetarian option.

These options let you customize your menu for different tastes or dietary needs while keeping it celebratory.

15 Alternative Thanksgiving Side Dish Ideas

Switch up the sides with bold flavors and creative ingredients that still complement the main event.

• Garlic and Parmesan Roasted Fingerling Potatoes: Crispy and savory potatoes with a cheesy finish.
• Mashed Cauliflower Mini Casseroles: A lighter, low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes that still delivers creamy comfort.
• Sweet Potato Ham Swiss Tart: A savory tart that layers sweet potato with ham and Swiss cheese for a rich, satisfying bite.
• Potato Gratin with Gruyère and Caramelized Onions: Thinly sliced potatoes baked with nutty Gruyère and sweet caramelized onions.
• Hasselback Sweet Potatoes with Brown Butter: Thinly sliced sweet potatoes roasted until crispy and drizzled with brown butter.
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts Quinoa with Pomegranate: A nutrient-packed dish with nutty quinoa, roasted sprouts, and pomegranate.
• Spicy Maple-Glazed Delicata Squash Rings: Sweet heat and tender texture in every bite.
• Sweet & Spicy Pineapple Coleslaw: Pineapple, Serrano Chilis and pineapple juice set this apart from your basic, everyday coleslaw.
• Grilled Asparagus with Lemon and Parmesan: Bright and fresh, balancing heavier dishes on the table.
• Charred Broccolini with Garlic Oil: Smoky greens with a fragrant garlic finish.
• Savory Pumpkin Focaccia: Soft bread infused with pumpkin for a seasonal twist.
• Cheddar and Chive Biscuits: Flaky biscuits with cheesy, herby flavor.
• Skillet Blueberry Cornbread: Delicious, moist cornbread made with coconut milk, fresh blueberries and brown sugar
• Cranberry Pear Flatbread Recipe: A festive flatbread topped with sweet pears and tangy cranberries for a colorful side or appetizer.
• Sweet Potato Rolls: Soft rolls with natural sweetness and a warm hue.

These sides balance creativity and comfort, adding surprise to the table without overwhelming traditional flavors.

9 Alternative Thanksgiving Specialty Ideas: Gravy, Stuffings, Dressings & Cranberries

Give classic sides new life with modern flavors and ingredients.

• Delicious Au Jus Gravy: This easy-to-make sauce is wildly underrated for pairing with Thanksgiving staples.
• Easy Sausage Gravy: So easy to make and such an indulgent addition to every savory dish.
• Wild Rice Stuffing with Mushrooms and Cranberries: Nutty rice combined with earthy mushrooms and tart cranberries.
• Quinoa Stuffing with Roasted Vegetables: A lighter, gluten-free option packed with flavor and texture.
• Apple and Sausage Stuffing with Fennel: Sweet apples and savory sausage make a hearty, aromatic combination.
• Chestnut and Leek Dressing: Buttery chestnuts and mild leeks for a rich yet delicate side.
• Cranberry Chutney with Ginger and Orange: Tangy-sweet chutney with a zesty, spiced finish.
• Cranberry Pear Compote: Sweet and slightly tart compote perfect for spooning over meats or desserts.
• Cranberry Orange Apple Sauce: Rich, fruity sauce you can eat by itself or pair with other dishes.

These specialties give your table unexpected flavor combinations while honoring classic holiday ingredients.

5 Alternative Thanksgiving Salad Ideas

Fresh salads with creative ingredients can balance out rich main courses and sides.

• Super Fruit and Walnut Quinoa Salad: A simple, fruity salad stacked with super fruits, nuts, and protein-rich quinoa for freshness and crunch.
• Baby Greens Salad with Quinoa & Honey Balsamic Vinaigrette: Tender greens tossed with quinoa and a sweet-tangy vinaigrette that feels light yet satisfying.
• Harvest Wild Rice Salad with Pumpkin Vinaigrette: Hearty wild rice paired with fall vegetables and a seasonal pumpkin dressing.
• Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad with Creamy Cilantro Dressing: Crunchy Brussels sprouts tossed with a bright, herb-forward creamy dressing.
• Farro Salad with Sun Dried Tomatoes & Artichokes: Nutty farro balanced with tangy sun-dried tomatoes and tender artichokes for bold flavor.

These salads add vibrant color and texture, helping round out heavier dishes on the menu.

6 Alternative Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

Alternative desserts bring fresh inspiration to the holiday dessert table without losing the cozy factor.

• Best Ever Fresh Peach Buckle: A tender, buttery cake layered with fresh peaches and crumb topping for a rustic fall dessert.
• Blackberry Crisp in a Jar: Individual berry crisps with a rustic presentation and sweet-tart flavor.
• Cookies & Cream Chocolate Pudding Pie: A creamy pudding pie layered with chocolate cookies for a playful, indulgent dessert.
• Best Ever Banana Pudding Pie: A Southern classic turned showstopper with layers of bananas, pudding, and whipped cream.
• Pumpkin Pie Cheesecake: Silky cheesecake swirled with pumpkin spice for the best of both desserts.
• German Chocolate Cheesecake: Decadent chocolate cheesecake topped with coconut-pecan frosting for a crowd-pleasing finale.

These treats put a fun spin on fall flavors, offering something new alongside or instead of pie.

5 Thanksgiving Non-Alcoholic Drink Ideas

Festive drinks without alcohol can still feel special and seasonal.

• Sparkling Cider (Martinelli’s): A bubbly, family-friendly classic for toasts.
• Hot Apple Cider: Warm and spiced, ideal for chilly evenings.
• Spiced Chai Latte (Hot or Iced): Cozy chai with warming spices and creamy milk.
• Café de Olla: Mexican spiced coffee with cinnamon and piloncillo for a rich, aromatic sip.
• Coffee with Vegan Pumpkin Spice Coffee Creamer: Smooth coffee sweetened with homemade pumpkin spice creamer for a dairy-free fall treat.

Including these beverages ensures everyone at the table can join in the holiday cheer.

5 Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board Ideas

Charcuterie boards are a playful way to welcome guests or fill gaps in the menu. Here are some combinations to inspire you:

• Fall Harvest Board: A mix of aged cheddar, brie, sliced apples, pears, and spiced nuts, finished with cranberry jam.
• Rustic Meat & Cheese Board: Cured meats like prosciutto and salami paired with creamy goat cheese, olives, and artisan crackers.
• Sweet & Savory Pumpkin Board: Pumpkin hummus, candied pecans, dried cranberries, and sharp white cheddar for seasonal flair.
• Southern-Inspired Board: Pimento cheese, smoked sausage, pickled okra, and cornbread crisps for a regional twist.
• Mediterranean Autumn Board: Marinated feta, roasted red peppers, figs, and herbed flatbreads for a vibrant spread.

Arrange ingredients by color and texture for a stunning centerpiece that doubles as an appetizer. These boards are easy to customize and add instant charm to your holiday table.

Tips for Pulling It All Together

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner is as much about timing and organization as it is about cooking. With a little planning, you can enjoy the day just as much as your guests instead of feeling stuck in the kitchen. These tips cover oven space, make-ahead prep, serving style, and a reminder that you don’t need to make everything from scratch to have a beautiful holiday meal.

First, plan out your oven space:

• Map out your menu: Write down every dish and note which ones need the oven and their cooking temperatures.
• Group similar dishes: Bake casseroles with similar temps together to save time and energy.
• Use resting time wisely: When the turkey comes out to rest, use that window to roast vegetables or reheat sides.

Second, make as much as you can ahead of time:

• Prep early favorites: Cranberry sauce, pies, and stuffing can be made 1–2 days in advance.
• Get vegetables ready the night before: Wash, peel, and chop so they’re ready to cook the next day.
• Partially prep mashed potatoes: Boil and mash them ahead, then finish with butter and cream when reheating for a fresh taste.

Third, choose a serving style and stick to it:

• Family-style: Dishes on the table encourage passing plates and casual conversation.
• Plated service: Best for small groups or when presentation is important.
• Pick what works for you: Either style can feel special if it fits your space and your guests.

And finally, give yourself permission to mix and match in whatever way will minimize stress and maximize your enjoyment of the holiday:

• Combine homemade with store-bought: Make the recipes that matter most to your family, but lean on shortcuts for things like rolls, pie crusts, or even dessert if it keeps you sane.
• Blend classics with new flavors: Anchor your menu with traditional favorites, then add one or two creative twists for fun and variety.

Thoughtful planning and realistic expectations let you create a menu that feels abundant yet manageable and help you actually enjoy the holiday alongside your guests.

FAQs About Hosting Thanksgiving Dinner

Here are some straightforward answers to the most common questions I receive about Thanksgiving dinner planning.

1. What are the most popular traditional Thanksgiving dinner dishes?

The most popular dishes you’ll see on a traditional Thanksgiving menu include roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. These classics are beloved because they balance savory and sweet flavors, and they’ve been passed down through generations. Including at least a few of these dishes ensures your table feels familiar and comforting to guests who look forward to them every year.

2. How do I plan a Thanksgiving dinner menu for a crowd?

Planning for a crowd starts with knowing your guest count and building your menu around a mix of mains, sides, and desserts. A good rule of thumb is one main protein, three to five side dishes, a fresh salad, and at least two dessert options. Consider dietary preferences, portion sizes (about 1 to 1 ½ pounds of food per person), and serving logistics, like what can be made ahead or held at room temperature. Mapping out what goes in the oven versus what can stay on the stove helps prevent bottlenecks on the big day.

3. What are some make-ahead Thanksgiving dishes?

Many Thanksgiving favorites are perfect for prepping ahead, which can save you hours of stress on the holiday itself. Stuffing, cranberry sauce, pies, and casseroles like sweet potato or green bean can all be made one to two days early and reheated before serving. Even mashed potatoes can be partially prepped by boiling and mashing them the day before, then adding butter and cream when reheating. Planning a menu with a few make-ahead options gives you more time to enjoy guests instead of being stuck in the kitchen.

4. How can I make Thanksgiving dinner on a budget?

To keep costs down, focus on seasonal ingredients like squash, sweet potatoes, and cranberries, which are often cheaper in November. Buying a whole turkey instead of parts and using simple homemade sides (mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables) can also help stretch your budget. Potluck-style dinners, where guests bring a side or dessert, are another great way to create a full spread without taking on the entire financial burden yourself.

5. What are good alternatives to turkey for Thanksgiving dinner?

Not every family wants turkey at the center of the table. Alternatives include glazed ham, roasted chicken, prime rib, salmon, or even plant-based mains like stuffed acorn squash or lentil loaves. These dishes can still feel festive and pair beautifully with traditional sides. Choosing an alternative protein can also simplify cooking if you’re hosting a smaller group or prefer something that cooks more quickly than a whole turkey.

6. What are unique or creative Thanksgiving dinner ideas?

If you want to break from tradition, consider adding global flavors or unexpected ingredients to your menu. A harissa-roasted carrot side, pumpkin tiramisu for dessert, or a cranberry jalapeño salsa can surprise and delight guests. Another creative approach is building a themed menu, like a Southern-inspired spread with pimento cheese biscuits and pecan pie bars or an Italian twist with lasagna and tiramisu. These unique touches make the holiday feel personal and memorable.

7. How do I accommodate dietary restrictions at Thanksgiving?

The key to accommodating dietary needs is variety. Offer at least one vegetarian main or hearty side, such as roasted vegetable quinoa salad, and label dishes clearly for guests with allergies or sensitivities. Many traditional recipes can easily be adapted — gluten-free stuffing, dairy-free mashed potatoes, or vegan gravy are simple swaps that still taste great. Planning ahead and asking guests about their needs helps everyone feel welcome and cared for.

8. What are easy Thanksgiving dinner ideas for beginners?

First-time hosts should stick to simple, reliable recipes that don’t require special equipment or hours of prep. A bone-in turkey breast roasts faster and is easier to handle than a whole bird, and classic sides like roasted carrots, mashed potatoes, and green beans can be made with minimal fuss. Store-bought pies or rolls can round out the menu without sacrificing the holiday feel. Focus on a few well-executed dishes rather than trying to tackle everything at once.

9. What sides or desserts can I bring to a Thanksgiving potluck?

Portable dishes that don’t need last-minute assembly or reheating are best for potlucks. Casseroles like sweet potato or green bean, cranberry relish, pies, or bar desserts travel well and can be served at room temperature. Salads made with grains like farro or quinoa are also sturdy and hold up beautifully during transport. Always confirm with the host what’s needed so you can bring something that complements the rest of the menu.

10. How can I organize cooking so everything is ready on time?

Creating a prep schedule is the secret to stress-free Thanksgiving cooking. Start by writing out your full menu, noting which dishes can be made ahead. Assign cooking times and oven temperatures for each recipe, then work backward to plan your day. Prep vegetables and assemble casseroles the day before, roast the turkey early so it can rest while sides finish, and keep warm dishes in a low oven until serving. A detailed timeline helps you stay on track and enjoy the holiday with your guests.