Thanksgiving has always been one of my favorite holidays. For me, it’s less about what’s on the table and more about who’s gathered around it. Although, of course, the food is a pretty big part of it too!
For as long as I can remember, Thanksgiving has meant getting together with my extended family. My parents, brother, aunts, uncles, cousins, and now all of their little ones. It’s always been a big, loud gathering with plenty of food and everyone catching up.
Last Thanksgiving looked a little different. With two new babies in the family, everyone kind of did their own thing. After more than a decade of celebrating together, having such a quiet holiday felt strange.
I was also in the thick of new motherhood, navigating sleep regressions, sleepless nights, and figuring out life with a baby. Honestly, I didn’t participate in many of our usual traditions last year.
But this year, we’re getting back together, and I’m really looking forward to it!
Growing up with 16 cousins, some of my favorite memories are from our big family gatherings. Now, watching those same cousins raise their own children and knowing they’re still part of my life, and now my son’s life, makes those traditions even more special.
And naturally, I’m excited for the food! My family requests my baked mac and cheese every Thanksgiving, so you can bet I’ll be bringing that along.
With Thanksgiving around the corner, I thought I’d round up a few recipes I’ve shared on Dishing Up Chic over the years that would make great additions to your holiday spread. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, there’s a mix of family favorites, easy appetizers, sides, and a few sweet treats to try.
Easy Thanksgiving Appetizers
Goat Cheese and Apple Crostini
If you’re looking for something simple to serve before the big meal, these goat cheese and apple crostini are a great option.
Toasted baguette slices topped with creamy goat cheese, crisp apples, pomegranate seeds, and a drizzle of honey make a sweet and savory appetizer that looks impressive without requiring much work.
Get the Goat Cheese and Apple Crostini Recipe
Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Baked Mac and Cheese
This might be my favorite recipe on the entire list!
My family requests my baked mac and cheese every Thanksgiving, and over the years, I’ve had to make about three pounds just to keep everyone happy.
It’s creamy, cheesy, topped with crispy breadcrumbs, and always one of the first dishes I look forward to putting on my plate.
This year, I’m especially excited for Bub to try it. Last Thanksgiving, he wasn’t eating solids yet, so this will be his first time enjoying all the food with us.
Get My Baked Mac and Cheese Recipe
Mom’s Sausage Stuffing
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without my mom’s stuffing.
Her sausage stuffing is one of those recipes that proves holiday cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to taste homemade.
The secret? She starts with boxed stuffing and dresses it up with sausage, peppers, onions, and a few other ingredients.
It’s hearty, flavorful, and a great shortcut when you’re preparing a big holiday meal.
Get Mom’s Sausage Stuffing Recipe
Brussels Sprouts with a Twist
Every Thanksgiving table needs a vegetable or two, and these Brussels sprouts are anything but boring.
Inspired by a Chrissy Teigen recipe, they’re loaded with flavor from bacon, cranberries, walnuts, blue cheese, and balsamic glaze.
They’re a nice change from traditional vegetable sides and add some color to the holiday table.
Get the Brussels Sprouts Recipe
Something Sweet for Thanksgiving
Apple Pie Crescent Rolls
I love a homemade dessert, but when there’s already so much cooking happening, I’m all for keeping things simple.
These apple pie crescent rolls are an easy alternative to traditional apple pie. They’re warm, sweet, and perfect when you want something homemade without spending hours baking.
Get the Apple Pie Crescent Rolls Recipe
Banana Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread
If you’re looking for something to enjoy on Thanksgiving morning, this banana pumpkin chocolate chip bread is one of my favorite seasonal bakes.
It’s soft, full of pumpkin flavor, and makes two loaves, so there’s plenty to share.
I’d serve it with coffee while everyone is getting ready for the day. It’s also a great recipe to make ahead.
Get the Banana Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Bread Recipe
Bonus: Make Your Home Smell Like Thanksgiving
One of my favorite ways to make our home feel cozy during the fall is with a stovetop simmer pot.
A few simple ingredients simmering on the stove can make your kitchen smell amazing while you’re preparing for guests.
If you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year, check out my autumn simmer pot ideas for a little extra seasonal inspiration.
Making New Traditions Alongside the Old
One thing I’d really like to add to our Thanksgiving table this year is sweet potato casserole. It’s something my family doesn’t traditionally make, but I feel like we’re missing out!
Do you make sweet potato casserole for Thanksgiving? And if so, are you team marshmallows or pecan topping?
Whether you’re hosting a big family gathering or keeping things small, I hope these recipes give you a little inspiration for your holiday spread.
I’m just looking forward to being back around the table with family, enjoying the traditions I grew up with, and watching my son become part of them.
Happy Thanksgiving!
XO, Sam
