Easy Recipes for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of the most anticipated meals of the year, but with all the preparation and planning involved, it can also be one of the most stressful. If you’re looking for ways to make your holiday easier without sacrificing flavor, these simple yet delicious recipes will help you create a memorable Thanksgiving feast with minimal effort.

1. One-Pan Roasted Turkey Breast

If roasting a whole turkey sounds intimidating, a turkey breast is a perfect, easy alternative. It cooks faster, is easier to manage, and still delivers that classic Thanksgiving flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 bone-in turkey breast (4-5 lbs)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Rub the turkey breast with olive oil, garlic powder, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the turkey breast on a roasting pan, and pour chicken broth around the base.
4. Roast for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Let rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Serve with gravy or cranberry sauce.

This one-pan wonder makes cleanup a breeze and guarantees a juicy, flavorful turkey.

2. Simple Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving classic, and they don’t need to be complicated. With a few simple ingredients, you can make creamy, rich mashed potatoes that everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• 4 tbsp butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot. Mash with a potato masher until smooth.
3. Stir in butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy. Adjust seasoning to taste.

For extra flavor, you can add roasted garlic, cheese, or chopped herbs to elevate the dish.

3. Easy Green Bean Almondine

This simple green bean side dish is a light, flavorful option to balance out the heavier dishes on your Thanksgiving table.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2 tbsp butter
• 1/4 cup sliced almonds
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
2. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add the almonds and cook until golden brown, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the green beans and toss to coat. Drizzle with lemon juice and season with salt and pepper. Serve immediately.

This dish is bright and crunchy, providing a refreshing contrast to the richness of other sides.

4. Pumpkin Pie with a Pre-Made Crust

Pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving staple, but making it from scratch doesn’t have to mean a long day in the kitchen. Using a pre-made pie crust makes this dessert a snap.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree
• 1 can (12 oz) evaporated milk
• 2 eggs
• 3/4 cup sugar
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1 pre-made pie crust

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together pumpkin, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, and spices.
3. Pour the filling into the pie crust.
4. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce the temperature to 350°F (175°C) and bake for an additional 40-45 minutes, or until the filling is set.
5. Let cool before serving. Top with whipped cream if desired.

This easy pumpkin pie tastes homemade without all the fuss.

5. Cranberry Sauce

Store-bought cranberry sauce is convenient, but homemade takes it to the next level. Plus, it’s quick and simple to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 12 oz fresh cranberries
• 1 cup sugar
• 1 cup orange juice
• 1 cinnamon stick (optional)

Instructions:

1. Combine cranberries, sugar, and orange juice in a saucepan. Bring to a boil.
2. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
3. Remove from heat and discard the cinnamon stick.
4. Let the sauce cool and refrigerate until ready to serve.

This tangy, sweet cranberry sauce pairs perfectly with turkey and adds a vibrant pop of color to your plate.