As the holiday season approaches, many of us are gearing up to host our closest friends and loved ones for a special celebration. What’s more iconic than gathering around the table with your favorite people to share a delicious meal? This year, why not take your Friendsgiving feast to the next level with these 20 cozy recipes that will impress your guests and satisfy their cravings?
From classic Thanksgiving staples like roasted turkey and mashed potatoes, to creative twists on old favorites like sweet potato casserole and cranberry sauce, our recipe roundup has something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration, we’ve got you covered with these mouth-watering dishes that are sure to become new traditions at your Friendsgiving table.
Herb-Roasted Turkey with Garlic Butter
Elevate your holiday gathering with this mouth-watering herb-roasted turkey recipe, infused with the rich flavor of garlic butter.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. Rinse turkey and pat dry with paper towels.
3. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, butter, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Rub the mixture all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
5. Place turkey in a roasting pan and put it in the oven.
6. Roast for about 3-3 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: approximately 3-3 1/2 hours
Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Caramelized Onions
Elevate your mashed potatoes game with the sweet and savory combination of caramelized onions. This recipe is a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large pot, boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Meanwhile, caramelize the onions by heating the butter in a skillet over medium-low heat. Cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and caramelized.
4. Drain the cooked potatoes and add the heavy cream, cheddar cheese (if using), salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.
5. Serve the mashed potatoes topped with the caramelized onions.
Cooking Time: About 45-50 minutes
Classic Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Onions
This beloved side dish is a staple of many holiday gatherings and family dinners. With its creamy sauce, tender green beans, and crunchy onions, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. In a separate pan, sauté chopped onion over medium heat until caramelized and crispy.
4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
5. Pour the green bean mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top, followed by crispy onions.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel: A classic Southern side dish gets a crunchy, nutty twist!
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Streusel topping (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, sugar, flour, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. Stir in heavy cream, beaten eggs, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
5. Sprinkle streusel topping evenly over the casserole.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until golden brown.
Streusel Topping:
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup chopped pecans
Combine dry ingredients in a bowl. Add cold butter and use a pastry blender or fingers to work into crumbs. Stir in chopped pecans.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
This recipe combines the classic flavors of cranberries and orange zest to create a tangy and sweet sauce perfect for holiday meals. With just a few simple ingredients, you can make a delicious homemade cranberry sauce in no time!
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup orange juice
– 2 tbsp grated orange zest
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
4. Reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened.
5. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Buttery Dinner Rolls with Honey Glaze
Elevate your dinner table with these soft, buttery rolls smothered in a sweet and sticky honey glaze.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 1 packet active dry yeast
– 1 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey glaze ingredients (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, salt, sugar, and yeast.
3. Add warm water and mix until a sticky dough forms.
4. Knead the dough for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and let rise in a warm place for 1 hour.
6. Punch down the dough and roll into 8-10 equal pieces.
7. Roll each piece into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
8. Place the rolls on the prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Glaze:
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
Combine honey and melted butter in a small bowl. Drizzle over warm rolls before serving.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe
Brussels sprouts are a staple of fall and winter, and when roasted to perfection, they’re a delicious side dish that pairs well with many main courses. This recipe takes it up a notch by adding a tangy balsamic glaze.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized.
4. In a small saucepan, reduce balsamic vinegar over medium heat until thickened and syrupy (about 5-7 minutes).
5. Stir in garlic.
6. Toss roasted Brussels sprouts with balsamic glaze and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Savory Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
This savory stuffing is perfect for fall gatherings, combining the flavors of sausage, apples, and herbs. It’s an easy and crowd-pleasing side dish that pairs well with roasted meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large apple, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking up with spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add onions, garlic, and apple to the skillet; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. In a large bowl, combine cooked sausage mixture, bread, chicken broth, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Transfer stuffing mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream Topping
A classic Thanksgiving dessert, this pumpkin pie recipe is a must-have for the holiday season. With a flaky crust and creamy filling, it’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
Ingredients:
For the Crust:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice-cold water
For the Filling:
– 1 cup cooked, mashed pumpkin
– 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 2 large eggs
For the Whipped Cream Topping:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. Make the crust: Combine flour, salt, and butter in a bowl; add water until dough forms. Roll out and place in pie dish.
3. Fill the pie: Mix pumpkin, heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg in a bowl. Beat in eggs. Pour into crust-lined pie dish.
4. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes or until filling is set.
5. Top with whipped cream: Whip heavy cream and sugar together until stiff peaks form. Spread over cooled pie.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Maple-Glazed Carrots with Thyme
Elevate your side dish game with this sweet and savory recipe featuring maple-glazed carrots infused with the earthy flavor of thyme. Perfect for accompanying roasted meats or as a standalone veggie delight.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tablespoons pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together maple syrup, olive oil, thyme sprigs, salt, and pepper.
3. Add carrot slices to the bowl and toss until they’re evenly coated with the glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the carrots in a single layer.
5. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Mac and Cheese with Breadcrumb Crust
Elevate your comfort food game with this rich and satisfying baked macaroni and cheese recipe, topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente.
3. In a large saucepan, combine cheddar and mozzarella cheese with milk and melted butter. Stir over medium heat until smooth and creamy.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the cheese mixture and stir until coated.
5. Transfer the mac and cheese mixture to a baking dish.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spiced Mulled Cider for a Warm Sip
Cozy up with a warm and spicy mug of Spiced Mulled Cider!
Ingredients:
– 2 liters apple cider
– 1 orange, sliced
– 1 lemon, sliced
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine apple cider, orange and lemon slices, cinnamon sticks, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
3. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together and the spices have infused into the cider.
4. Strain the cider into mugs or a serving pitcher to remove the solids.
5. Add honey or maple syrup to taste, if desired.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Elevate your side dish game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic and herbs with the natural sweetness of roasted potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss potatoes with olive oil, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. Spread the potato mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown and tender, flipping them halfway through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow-Cooker Turkey Gravy
Elevate your turkey-based dishes with this easy-to-make slow-cooker gravy, perfect for holiday meals or everyday use. This recipe requires minimal effort and yields a rich, flavorful sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup turkey broth (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from roasted or cooked turkey)
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, melt butter and whisk in flour to make a roux.
2. Gradually add broth, cream, mustard, salt, and pepper, whisking until smooth.
3. Add turkey drippings and stir well.
4. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Strain the gravy through a fine-mesh sieve before serving.
Cook Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pecan Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust
These bite-sized bars combine the rich flavors of pecans, caramel, and shortbread crust for a delightful dessert perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
For the Shortbread Crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
For the Pecan Filling:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. Prepare the Shortbread Crust: In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly mixture forms. Press into prepared baking dish.
3. Bake crust for 20 minutes or until lightly golden.
4. Prepare the Pecan Filling: In a large bowl, whisk together pecans, corn syrup, granulated sugar, eggs, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour filling over baked crust and smooth top.
6. Bake for an additional 25-30 minutes or until filling is set and slightly caramelized.
7. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45-50 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
This recipe yields a creamy and comforting soup that highlights the sweet flavor of roasted butternut squash, perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal preparation, you’ll be enjoying this delicious soup in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the squash, then sprinkle with chopped onion and minced garlic.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until the squash is tender and caramelized.
5. Scoop out the roasted squash flesh and blend with vegetable broth in a pot until smooth.
6. If desired, add heavy cream or half-and-half and stir to combine.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Cornbread Muffins with Honey Butter
Sweet and savory cornbread muffins, slathered with a pat of honey butter – a match made in heaven! This recipe brings together the comforting warmth of cornbread and the golden sweetness of honey, making it perfect for a cozy brunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
– Honey butter (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together melted butter, egg, and buttermilk.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon pure honey
Mix together butter and honey until smooth. Serve warm with cornbread muffins.
Apple Crisp with Vanilla Ice Cream
This classic dessert combines tender apples, crunchy oat topping, and a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream for the perfect autumn treat. With just a few ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously warm and comforting dessert in no time.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1 scoop vanilla ice cream (about 1/2 cup)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×9-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and cold butter until crumbly.
5. Top apple mixture with oat topping, spreading evenly.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles
Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus Bundles: A Delicious Twist on a Classic
Elevate your asparagus game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of asparagus with the savory, smoky flavor of bacon.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh asparagus, trimmed
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon, cut into thirds
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Wrap each asparagus spear with a piece of bacon, securing it with a toothpick if needed.
4. Place the asparagus bundles on the prepared baking sheet, leaving some space between each bundle.
5. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the asparagus is tender and the bacon is crispy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cinnamon-Spiced Pumpkin Bread
This moist and flavorful pumpkin bread is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and perfect for snacking, serving as a side dish, or as a gift for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, melted butter, egg, and sugar. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Cooking Time: 50-60 minutes
Summary
Get ready to host the coziest Friendsgiving ever! This article features 20 delicious recipes to make your festive feast a hit. From classic dishes like Herb-Roasted Turkey with Garlic Butter and Creamy Mashed Potatoes with Caramelized Onions, to sweet treats like Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream Topping and Pecan Pie Bars with Shortbread Crust, there’s something for everyone. Plus, find inspiration for sides, soups, and even cocktails! With these mouthwatering recipes, you’ll be the host with the most this Friendsgiving.
