Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones and expressing gratitude. It is also a time for feasting on delicious food. If you are hosting Thanksgiving dinner this year, it is important to plan ahead and prioritize your cooking tasks. By deciding what to cook first, you can ensure that everything is ready in time and you can relax and enjoy the festivities.

One dish that you should consider making first is the turkey. The turkey is the centerpiece of any Thanksgiving meal, and it can take several hours to cook. By starting the turkey early in the day, you can ensure that it has enough time to cook thoroughly and rest before serving. Whether you choose to roast, brine, or deep-fry your turkey, it is essential to give it the attention it deserves.

Another dish that you may want to prioritize is the cranberry sauce. Cranberry sauce is a classic Thanksgiving staple, and it can be made in advance and refrigerated for up to a week. By making the cranberry sauce early, you can free up valuable stove space and focus on other dishes. Plus, letting the flavors meld in the fridge will only enhance the taste.

Start your Thanksgiving feast with these delicious dishes

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. One of the highlights of this special day is the festive feast that brings everyone together. If you’re wondering what to cook first for Thanksgiving dinner, we’ve got you covered with some mouthwatering options. Kick off your Thanksgiving celebration with these delicious dishes.

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1. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup

Warm up your guests with a comforting bowl of roasted butternut squash soup. This velvety soup is the perfect way to start your Thanksgiving meal. The rich flavors of roasted butternut squash, onions, and garlic will tantalize your taste buds and set the tone for the rest of the feast.

2. Cranberry Pecan Salad

Add a refreshing touch to your Thanksgiving spread with a cranberry pecan salad. The combination of tart cranberries, crunchy pecans, and crisp lettuce creates a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Drizzle some tangy vinaigrette over the salad for an extra burst of taste.

3. Classic Herb-Roasted Turkey

No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a succulent turkey as the centerpiece. Prepare a classic herb-roasted turkey that will impress your guests with its crispy golden skin and juicy meat. Infused with herbs and spices, this traditional main dish is a true crowd pleaser.

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4. Savory Stuffing

A Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be the same without a side of savory stuffing. Whether you prefer cornbread stuffing, sausage stuffing, or a herb-infused version, this classic dish adds depth and flavor to your meal. Don’t forget to drizzle some turkey gravy over the top for a truly satisfying bite.

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5. Maple-Glazed Roasted Carrots

Upgrade your Thanksgiving vegetable game with maple-glazed roasted carrots. These tender carrots are roasted to perfection and coated in a sweet and sticky maple glaze. The touch of sweetness pairs perfectly with the natural earthy flavors of the carrots.

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Starting your Thanksgiving feast with these delicious dishes is sure to impress your guests and set the stage for a memorable celebration. From the comforting butternut squash soup to the flavorful turkey and savory stuffing, each dish contributes to the overall culinary experience. So gather your loved ones, give thanks, and enjoy the feast!

Classic Roasted Turkey

Thanksgiving dinner wouldn’t be complete without a classic roasted turkey. This traditional dish is the centerpiece of the holiday meal and is sure to impress your guests.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole turkey, approximately 12-14 pounds

– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 onion, quartered

– 2 carrots, chopped

– 2 stalks of celery, chopped

– 4 cloves of garlic, minced

– 1 lemon, halved

– Fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, and sage)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C).

2. Remove the turkey from its packaging and remove the neck and giblets from the cavity.

3. Rinse the turkey inside and out with cold water, and pat dry with paper towels.

4. Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.

5. Rub melted butter all over the turkey, and season generously with salt and pepper.

6. Stuff the cavity of the turkey with onion, carrots, celery, garlic, lemon halves, and a handful of fresh herbs.

7. Tie the turkey’s legs together with kitchen twine to hold its shape.

8. Place the turkey in the preheated oven and roast for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

9. Baste the turkey with the pan drippings every 30 minutes while it cooks.

10. Once the turkey is fully cooked, remove it from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.

11. Carve the turkey and serve it with your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes.

Enjoy your classic roasted turkey and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Mouthwatering mashed potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic and essential dish for any Thanksgiving dinner. They are creamy, buttery, and oh-so-comforting. Whether you prefer them smooth and velvety or with a hint of texture, this recipe will surely satisfy everyone’s taste buds.

To start, gather the following ingredients:

– 5 pounds of russet potatoes

– 1 cup of milk

– 1/2 cup of unsalted butter

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– Salt and pepper to taste

– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, chopped chives

To prepare the mashed potatoes, follow these simple steps:

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into cubes. Rinse them under cold water to remove any excess starch.

2. Place the potato cubes in a large pot and fill it with enough cold water to cover the potatoes. Add a pinch of salt and bring the water to a boil over high heat.

3. Reduce the heat to medium-high and let the potatoes cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.

4. In a separate saucepan, heat the milk and butter over low heat until the butter melts. Pour the mixture over the potatoes.

5. Using a potato masher or a handheld mixer, mash the potatoes until they reach your desired consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste and mix well.

6. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese and chopped chives on top for added flavor and presentation.

These mouthwatering mashed potatoes are ready to be served alongside your Thanksgiving turkey and other delicious dishes. Your guests will surely be impressed by their creamy and irresistible texture. Enjoy!

Flavorful stuffing

Thanksgiving is not complete without a delicious stuffing to accompany the turkey. This flavorful stuffing recipe will definitely impress your guests!

  • Ingredients:
  • 2 cups diced bread
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 1/2 cup diced celery
  • 1/2 cup diced carrots
  • 1/4 cup diced mushrooms
  • 2 cloves of garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 cup chicken broth
  • 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the onions, celery, carrots, mushrooms, and garlic. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. In a large bowl, combine the diced bread, cooked vegetables, parsley, sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Add the chicken broth to the bread mixture and stir until all the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil.
  6. Bake for 30 minutes covered, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to allow the top to brown.
  7. Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.

This flavorful stuffing is the perfect side dish to complement your Thanksgiving turkey. Enjoy!

Savory Gravy

Thanksgiving dinner just wouldn’t be the same without a rich and savory gravy to accompany the turkey and mashed potatoes. This classic sauce is the perfect finishing touch to bring all the flavors together. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for homemade savory gravy that will impress your guests:

  1. Start by making a roux. In a saucepan, melt 1/2 cup of unsalted butter over medium heat. Gradually whisk in 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour until smooth and golden brown.
  2. Slowly pour in 4 cups of chicken or turkey broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 5 minutes, or until the gravy thickens.
  3. Add flavor to the gravy by stirring in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon of dried sage, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, and salt and pepper to taste. Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your preference.
  4. If desired, you can enhance the flavor by adding 1/4 cup of dry white wine or a splash of Worcestershire sauce.
  5. For a smooth consistency, strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve into a serving pitcher or gravy boat. This step is optional but will remove any lumps and result in a silky texture.
  6. Keep the gravy warm until ready to serve. If it thickens too much, you can thin it out with a little more broth or water.
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This savory gravy will complement your Thanksgiving feast and take it to the next level. It’s the perfect accompaniment to roast turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and all your favorite holiday dishes. Enjoy!

Q&A

What is a traditional dish for Thanksgiving dinner?

A traditional dish for Thanksgiving dinner is roast turkey.

What are some popular side dishes for Thanksgiving dinner?

Some popular side dishes for Thanksgiving dinner include mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and sweet potatoes.

Can you suggest some vegetarian options for a Thanksgiving dinner?

Yes, there are many vegetarian options for a Thanksgiving dinner. Some ideas include a vegetarian roast, stuffed acorn squash, roasted vegetables, or a vegetarian shepherd’s pie.

What is a good dessert to serve for Thanksgiving dinner?

A traditional dessert to serve for Thanksgiving dinner is pumpkin pie. Other popular options include apple pie, pecan pie, or a cranberry tart.

Is it necessary to brine a turkey before cooking?

Brining a turkey can help to make it more juicy and flavorful. While it is not necessary, many people find that brining enhances the taste of the turkey.

What is a traditional dish to cook first for Thanksgiving dinner?

A traditional dish to cook first for Thanksgiving dinner is the roasted turkey. It is the centerpiece of the meal and typically takes the longest to cook.

Do you have any suggestions for a vegetarian dish to cook first for Thanksgiving dinner?

Yes, if you’re looking for a vegetarian dish to cook first for Thanksgiving dinner, you could consider making a roasted vegetable platter. It’s a colourful and delicious option that everyone can enjoy.