33 Essential Thanksgiving Recipes for a Festive Spread
33 Essential Thanksgiving Recipes for a Festive Spread
From mouthwatering turkey to irresistible sides and desserts, Rily's selection of Thanksgiving recipes promises a memorable and delicious holiday spread.
Thanksgiving is one of our favourite culinary holidays of the year, and with Canadian Thanksgiving just around the corner, we're excited to welcome fall with you. Whether you're celebrating Canadian Thanksgiving soon or gearing up for American Thanksgiving in November, Turkey Day is just around the corner.
You can always count on the classics—turkey, stuffing, seasonal veggies, and that perfect pumpkin pie—but if you're eager to try something new, we’ve got you covered with our favourite Thanksgiving recipes from Rily’s kitchen to yours. Gather your loved ones and give thanks over a delicious spread of autumn flavours!
Bacon Wrapped Turkey
Recipe by Meredith Holbrook
From our founder, Meredith Holbrook, comes a show-stopping Bacon-Wrapped Turkey that transforms your Thanksgiving feast. Juicy turkey, crispy bacon, melted butter, and fragrant rosemary come together to create a flavour-packed holiday centrepiece. Say goodbye to dry turkey and enjoy a succulent dish that’s sure to impress. Every bite showcases why this recipe is a must-have for your Thanksgiving table, offering a memorable meal that brings holiday joy and delight to your guests.
Fall Squash Panzanella
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
This unique take on panzanella swaps traditional tomatoes for seasonal delicata squash, making it a festive side dish for Thanksgiving. The golden squash, paired with crispy sourdough and a rich brown butter vinaigrette, is a delightful combination of textures and fall flavours. The addition of rosemary and pumpkin seeds adds extra warmth and crunch, making this dish both hearty and nourishing. A perfect way to incorporate local fall produce into your holiday spread.
Easy Stuffing Muffin Cups
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
These Stuffing Muffin Cups are a fun and easy way to serve stuffing this Thanksgiving. Made with sourdough bread, Italian sausage, and fresh herbs, they're crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside, offering a portable and mess-free take on a holiday classic. You can also make them vegetarian by leaving out the sausage. These portion-sized servings are perfect for entertaining and add a modern twist to traditional stuffing, making them both versatile and convenient.
Radicchio Salad with Spiced Squash
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Experience the essence of fall with Rily’s Radicchio Salad with Spiced Squash, a standout Thanksgiving dish. Tender delicata squash is caramelized with autumn spices and paired with crisp radicchio. The salad features a blend of crunchy walnuts, fresh parsley, and a creamy tahini-maple dressing that brings together the seasonal flavors in a harmonious dance. This vibrant, flavour-packed salad is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful addition to your Thanksgiving dinner table.
[Get the recipe.(https://www.rily.co/recipes/radicchio-salad-spiced-squash-227)
Gluten-Free Turkey Pot Pie
Recipe by Megan Horsley
This Gluten-Free Turkey Pot Pie is a perfect Thanksgiving alternative if you're not roasting a whole turkey. Packed with lean turkey, nutrient-rich Brussels sprouts, and callaloo, this dish offers a balanced meal of protein, vitamins, and fibre. The flaky gluten-free crust made with vegan butter makes it ideal for those with dietary restrictions, while the savoury filling is a comforting way to repurpose holiday leftovers into a hearty, wholesome meal. It’s a satisfying, nourishing option for smaller gatherings.
Brown Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Rily's Brown Butter Smashed Sweet Potatoes make an irresistible side dish for your Thanksgiving meal. The sweet potatoes are roasted to perfection, their skins crisped, while the insides remain fluffy and tender. Topped with a nutty brown butter, crispy sage, and crunchy walnuts, this dish is packed with rich autumnal flavours. Sweet potatoes are a nutritious and antioxidant-rich choice, making them a healthy and flavourful accompaniment to any holiday spread.
Quinoa Flatbread
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
This Quinoa Flatbread is a perfect side dish for your Thanksgiving meal, offering a gluten-free, high-protein option. Made with soaked quinoa, olive oil, and fragrant herbs like oregano and rosemary, it's a savoury flatbread that complements seasonal flavours. The addition of garlic and paprika adds a subtle kick, while quinoa provides a nutrient-rich base packed with fibre and essential minerals. This healthy and flavourful flatbread is ideal for those looking for a wholesome alternative to traditional breads.
Egg & Squash Breakfast Quesadillas
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Perfect for the day after Thanksgiving, these Breakfast Quesadillas are filled with chipotle-spiced honeynut squash, fluffy eggs, and sautéed spinach. The smoky squash adds a fall flavour to the dish, while Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully for a rich, satisfying bite. These quesadillas are a great way to use up leftover squash, and they make for a healthy and hearty start to your morning. Simple to prepare, they're perfect for a quick breakfast or brunch.
Miso Maple Acorn Squash
Recipe by Fran Allen
This Miso Maple Acorn Squash from Rily is a flavourful and visually stunning side dish for Thanksgiving. The earthy miso balances perfectly with the sweetness of maple syrup, while crunchy pecans provide added texture. Roasted until golden, acorn squash becomes tender and rich, making this dish a beautiful addition to any holiday table. With simple ingredients and minimal prep, it's a health-conscious option that highlights the best of seasonal produce.
Maple Roasted Carrots
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
Not only are these Maple Roasted Carrots super simple to make, but they’re also a gorgeous and colourful addition to your table spread. This recipe is a celebration of fall harvest and that classic North American maple flavour and serves as a great reminder to be thankful for the beautiful food we grow right here at home.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin and Sage Ravioli
Recipe by Megan Horsley
As the weather begins to drop and leaves start turning, pumpkin flavouring and pumpkin motifs surround us and every year it's once again proven that you can put pumpkin on anything. In this gluten-free ravioli recipe, pumpkin and sage are paired together to create a mouth-watering combo. Your guests are sure to gobble it up, leaving none to add to your Thanksgiving leftovers, so consider making extra to freeze for another day.
Shredded Brussel Sprout Slaw
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Topped with pancetta and pecans for crunch, apples for something sweet and a delightful Dijon vinaigrette, this salad will provide your guests with a cool and light palette cleanser amidst the heaviness of our more traditional Thanksgiving favourites. Though they're now recognized as a North American staple for cooler months, Brussels sprouts are not indigenous to the continent. Records trace the earliest use of Brussels sprouts back to the 13th century, in the Brussels region of Belgium, hence their name. The powerful little greens didn't reach North America until the 18th century, when French settlers brought them to Louisiana. And this recipe makes us thankful that they came this way.
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
This harvest inspired recipe is an easy and hearty option to incorporate into your Thanksgiving spread for any vegetarian and vegan guests. But it's also just a delicious side for everyone who wants to add some to their plate. Named for its sweet, creamy, nutty flavour, acorn squash is not only tasty, but also aesthetically pleasing because of its fun flower-like shape when you cut into it. This dish is packed with vitamins, minerals, potassium, and fibre, so in addition to being a delicious addition to your feast, it's also extremely nutritious.
Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cornbread Stuffing
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Whether you cook it in your turkey, or on the side, this cornbread stuffing is a great dish to serve for any guests that are avoiding gluten, or just curious about this spin on your classic stuffing. Bursting with the perfect combinations of sweet and savoury flavours, soft interior and crispy golden-brown edges, watch with satisfaction as your guests pile their plates high with this glorious Gluten-Free Pumpkin Cornbread Stuffing.
Wild Rice Holiday Dressing
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Indulge in the rich combination of textures and tastes as nutty wild rice meets a medley of fresh vegetables, coming together in harmony to create a dish that captures the essence of fall. Whether you're aiming to accommodate specific dietary needs or simply desire a change from the norm, this wild rice dressing invites you to savour a side that celebrates the warmth and abundance of Thanksgiving while infusing a wholesome touch to your festive meal. Whether you’re gluten free or just looking to switch up your usual Thanksgiving side, this whole food based wild rice dressing is packed with veggies and full of all your favourite fall flavours.
Mushroom Puff Pastry Rolls
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Step up your appetizer game with these delectable bites that put a vegetarian spin on the beloved sausage roll. Overflowing with rich umami flavours, the combination of earthy mushrooms, wholesome walnuts, and the tangy sweetness of sun-dried tomatoes creates a harmonious symphony of taste. Whether you're catering to a vegetarian crowd or simply seeking a mouthwatering appetizer option, these rolls promise to delight your senses and leave your guests craving for more.
Sink your teeth into the flaky layers of puff pastry that encase this flavourful filling, creating a delightful contrast between the crispness of the pastry and the hearty indulgence within. With every bite, you'll savour a medley of textures and enjoy a hearty appetizer that captures the essence of comfort and celebration. These mushroom puff pastry rolls add a touch of elegance and creativity to your table, inviting everyone to partake in the joy of festive feasting.
Grain-Free Rosemary Focaccia
Recipe by Julia Gibson
This Grain-Free Rosemary Focaccia is a culinary masterpiece tailored for paleo and grain-free enthusiasts. This recipe reimagines the classic focaccia with a fluffy yet crispy twist, adorned with aromatic rosemary, generous drizzles of olive oil, and a touch of flakey salt. While this creation stands beautifully on its own, its versatility shines as you explore the option to personalize it with cherry tomatoes, thinly sliced red onions, halved olives, or delicate layers of potatoes.
This recipe can be easily customized to host your favourite herbs and vegetables, making each slice a canvas for your taste preferences. Whether you're dipping it into a pool of rich olive oil and balsamic vinegar or savouring its natural essence, this Grain-Free Rosemary Focaccia offers a satisfying symphony of flavours and textures. As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, this crowd-pleasing focaccia will not only satisfy your cravings but also showcase the joy of embracing dietary diversity in a dish that's as delicious as it is accommodating.
Rosemary Roasted Vegetables
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
Experience the delightful allure of our Rosemary Roasted Vegetables, where the aromatic essence of rosemary intertwines with a medley of roasted veggies to create a dish that's both rich in taste and health benefits. As you relish the harmonious blend of textures and flavours, remember that rosemary is not just a culinary delight but also a source of disease-fighting antioxidants that contribute to your well-being with every delicious bite. Beyond its robust flavour, rosemary holds a unique ability to uplift your mood, infusing your mealtime with a dash of positivity. Embrace the simplicity of this dish, where rosemary effortlessly enhances the earthy goodness of roasted vegetables. With every forkful, you're not only treating your senses to a delightful experience but also nourishing your body with the revitalizing properties of this remarkable herb.
Warm Fall Harvest Salad
Recipe by Megan Horsley
Typically associated with summer, salads don't often make it to the Thanksgiving table. But, who's to say salads can't be warm? Let us inspire you with this Warm Fall Harvest Salad, filled with delicious greens, roasted vegetables, and topped with pecans and dried cranberries. The ingredients that make this dish so delightful, like beets, Brussels sprouts, and carrots, are common cooler-weather foods, and pair perfectly with the traditional staples of a Thanksgiving feast.
Stovetop Green Bean Casserole
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Green bean casserole is a beloved Thanksgiving classic that brings comfort and nostalgia to the holiday table. Unlike a traditional green bean casserole, this one is cooked on a hot cast iron skillet and contains zero cream, or milk. Rily's Stovetop Green Bean Casserole adds a pop of vibrant green, and is especially perfect for folks who like things a little crispy and crunchy.
Maple Spiced Cranberry Sauce
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Naturally sweetened with pure maple syrup and fresh orange juice, this cranberry sauce is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu. Whether served as a condiment alongside turkey or as a delightful accompaniment to other festive favourites, this cranberry sauce captures the essence of Thanksgiving and adds a touch of nostalgia to every bite.
Plant-Based Mushroom Gravy
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
This delicious vegan mushroom gravy is perfect for pouring on top of just about anything you'll have on your table this Thanksgiving. If you and your guests prefer a meat-based gravy, supplement some (or all) of the vegetable stock in this recipe with drippings from your turkey. Delicious either way and packed with umami flavour from mushrooms, miso and nutritional yeast, our Plant Based Mushroom Gravy is bound to be your new favourite drizzle.
Apple & Sage Turkey Burgers
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
These Apple & Sage Turkey Burgers make for a delicious main course or lunch option during Thanksgiving. The ground turkey is lightened with shredded Honeycrisp apples, giving them a subtle sweetness, while fresh sage provides earthy, autumnal notes. Topped with cheddar and served on gluten-free buns, these burgers are a healthier take on classic comfort food, perfect for a casual, family-friendly meal. A balanced, protein-packed dish that's sure to be a crowd pleaser!
Orange Marmalade Turkey Legs
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
For a smaller Thanksgiving celebration, these Orange Marmalade Turkey Legs are a perfect main dish. The marmalade adds a tangy sweetness that complements the savoury turkey, while lemon zest and garlic bring a refreshing depth of flavour. Paired with roasted acorn squash and fennel, this dish is a simple yet flavourful way to enjoy turkey without the fuss of a whole bird. Ideal for cozy dinners, it offers a delicious and nutrient-rich meal packed with seasonal ingredients.
Mushroom & Lentil Balls with Mushroom Gravy
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Mushroom and Lentil Balls are a wonderful vegetarian main course for Thanksgiving. Packed with hearty lentils, cremini mushrooms, and walnuts, they're rich in plant-based protein and fibre. Served with a creamy mushroom gravy, this dish is both comforting and flavourful. With its savoury taste and texture, these lentil balls are a great alternative to traditional meatballs, offering a satisfying, vegan-friendly option that everyone will enjoy.
Baked Pears with Vegan Protein Ice Cream
Recipe by Megan Horsley
These baked pears served with a scoop of homemade vegan protein ice cream, are a healthier dessert option for your Thanksgiving feast. The pears become soft and caramelized as they bake, while the protein ice cream made from coconut milk and dates delivers a creamy, dairy-free finish. Cinnamon and sea salt enhance the natural sweetness of the pears, making this dessert both nourishing and indulgent without any refined sugar. Perfect for a guilt-free treat!
Gingersnap Pumpkin Pie
Recipe by Julia Gibson
Many people would say that Thanksgiving just isn't complete without pumpkin pie. Made with a gingersnap cookie pie crust, this take on the classic dessert is perfect for anyone who thinks spice is the most important part of a pumpkin pie. Loaded with a luscious vegan filling in a grain-free crust, this Gingersnap Pumpkin Pie can (and will) be enjoyed by all. Serve warm or at room temperature, whipped topping and ice cream are optional, but always recommended because... it's just so delicious.
Vegan Pumpkin Pie Cheesecakes
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
Indulge in the ultimate fall dessert experience with these adorable bite-sized treats that capture the essence of pumpkin pie perfection. Crafted with simplicity in mind, these mini cheesecakes offer a delightful combination of creamy texture and rich pumpkin flavour. Whether enjoyed during the autumn season or any time you're craving a wholesome and satisfying dessert, these vegan delights are sure to bring joy to your palate and a touch of comfort to your table.
Beyond their irresistible taste, these vegan pumpkin pie cheesecakes hold a treasure trove of health benefits. Packed with powerful antioxidants such as Vitamin A, C, and K, pumpkins offer a natural boost to eye, skin, heart, and immune health. The inclusion of fibre and essential minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron further enhances their nutritional value. Each delectable bite not only satisfies your sweet tooth but also supports your overall well-being, making these mini cheesecakes a guilt-free way to treat yourself to a dessert that truly nourishes.
Gluten-Free Cherry Hand Pies
Recipe by Megan Horsley
Delight in the perfect combination of flavours and health benefits with these delectable treats. Bursting with the vibrant tartness of cherries, each bite of these flaky, gluten-free hand pies offers a delightful journey for your taste buds. Beyond the scrumptious taste, these hand pies are a nutritional powerhouse. Rich in polyphenols, cherries take the spotlight, working their magic to combat inflammation and provide a boost of long-term antioxidant benefits, ensuring your well-being while indulging in this delightful dessert.
Elevate your dessert experience with the convenience of handheld pies that boast both exquisite taste and nutritional value. The sweet and tangy cherries provide a burst of flavour that pairs harmoniously with the tender, flaky crust. Each bite is a celebration of both taste and health, making these gluten-free cherry hand pies a delightful addition to your table and a guilt-free way to satisfy your dessert cravings.
Air-Fryer Apple Crisp
Recipe by Jaclyn Irwin
Add a warm, comforting touch to your Thanksgiving dessert table with this Air-Fryer Apple Crisp. Made with sweet Honeycrisp apples, heart-healthy rolled oats, and a hint of cinnamon, it's a single-serve treat that’s quick and easy to prepare. A drizzle of maple syrup adds natural sweetness, while a dollop of almond butter elevates the nutty flavour. This light yet satisfying dessert captures the essence of a traditional apple crisp without the effort of making a full batch.
Gluten-Free Apple Scones
Recipe by Julia Gibson
These gluten-free apple scones are a delicious, wholesome dessert for Thanksgiving. Made with oat and coconut flour, these scones are packed with fibre and lightly sweetened with apples and coconut sugar. Spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice, they bring warm, comforting flavours to the table. Whether served for breakfast, dessert, or an afternoon treat, these scones are perfect for those looking for a gluten-free and naturally sweetened option this holiday season.
Raspberry Pear Crisp
Recipe by Tina Gravalos
We hope your guests will leave enough room for dessert after the literal feast you've presented them with, because this Raspberry Pear Crisp is too good to miss out on. A crisp or crumble is a classic dessert loved across generations, originating from World War II when British Apple Crumble spiked in popularity due to its simplicity and access to ingredients during food shortages and rationing. Serve our take on the classic crumble either warm or at room temperature with ice cream, this dish is the perfect amount of juicy, tart flavour and sweet.
Orange Olive Oil Cake
Megan Horsley
This Orange Olive Oil Cake is a delightful, gluten-free option perfect for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving. Made with heart-healthy extra-virgin olive oil and almond flour, it's rich in healthy fats and naturally gluten-free. The bright citrus notes from fresh oranges and zest add a refreshing flavour, while coconut sugar keeps it lightly sweetened. For an extra festive touch, use blood oranges to create a stunning visual pop. Moist, flavourful, and wholesome, this cake is an ideal dessert for any celebration.
