37 Feast-Worthy Thanksgiving Dishes That Keep the Compliments Coming

Every Thanksgiving table comes with its share of hungry guests and plenty of opinions, and having 37 dishes at your disposal means you’re prepared for both. These options ensure nobody is stuck with the same old side, unless, of course, it’s everyone’s favorite and gets requested year after year. Family and friends will be dishing out more praise than leftovers, thanks to a spread that keeps spirits high and forks busy.

A slice of layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a white plate.
Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

A piece of Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. sits on a plate with a fork. More cake is visible in the background on a wooden board.
Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Dessert tables are often remembered for highlights like the Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake, a favorite that draws in both young and old with its appealing combination of chocolate and pumpkin flavors. Multiple layers ensure every bite offers something new, from the rich brownie base to the spiced pumpkin center. Topped with a festive finish, this cake becomes a conversational centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Patch Brownie Cake

Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

A close-up of Grandma's Mashed Potato Casserole with a serving spoon in the dish.
Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Family gatherings are not complete without a serving of Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole nestled among the favorites. Creamy and generously portioned, this dish offers plenty for everyone while holding its texture from first taste to last. Cheesy, buttery, and often requested, it stays warm through second helpings. Every time it appears, grateful comments from guests are guaranteed.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Mashed Potato Casserole

This is a digital product. You'll receive an instant download link after purchase.

The Backyard Table

Recipes for Summer Cookouts

With over 50 pages of foodie love, The Backyard Table features Chef Jenn's BEST recipes for outdoor eating and entertaining. Every recipe is created, tested, and loved by Chef Jenn, with NO AI! Get it now, at a special introductory price of $7.99 and level up your outdoor dining.

A person holds a tablet displaying a cookbook titled

Get ad-free recipes like Grilled Corn GuacamoleGrilled French Onion BurgersDeviled Egg Pa​sta SaladBlueberry Grunt, and so many more!

Puff Pastry Apple Tart

A Puff Pastry Apple Tart topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and sprinkled with powdered sugar sits on a light green plate.
Puff Pastry Apple Tart. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Holiday feasts often get upgraded by having Puff Pastry Apple Tart among the desserts, as its golden layers contrast perfectly with the sweet apple filling. The crisp pastry edges pair well with the soft fruit, creating a balanced treat. Its presentation also sparks curiosity, earning appreciative glances and remarks. Sharing slices usually means sharing praise at the table.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Tart

Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

A rectangular white plate with cooked red cabbage and bacon pieces, placed on a light surface next to a floral-patterned cloth.
Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Side dishes like Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon play an essential role, mixing crunchy and tender for a memorable texture. This recipe achieves a great balance of tasty bacon and tangy cabbage, resulting in an adaptable and vibrant addition to the lineup. It pairs well with main courses and rounds out a feast with color and flavor. Most gatherings include it by popular demand.
Get the Recipe: Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage with Bacon

Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

An apple cinnamon roll on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Morning brunches transform into special occasions with Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls gracing the menu, offering a fusion of two favorite treats. Swirls of spiced apples and cinnamon pair with soft rolls, making them a warm option before the main meal. Sweet glaze on top draws plenty of attention and praise from guests. Every bite delivers a sense of comfort and nostalgia.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Cinnamon Rolls

Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Smoked chicken wings with pickles on a black plate.
Smoked Dill Pickle Wings. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Appetizer platters tend to shine a little brighter when Smoked Dill Pickle Wings are featured, standing out with their combination of smoky and tangy flavors. The marinade and wood-smoked preparation give them a depth not commonly found in typical wings. Crisp skin and juicy meat make these easy to crave and hard to resist. Often, the tray empties quickly, earning nods from everyone at the table.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Dill Pickle Wings

Tasty Pumpkin Turnovers

A plate of Pumpkin Turnovers arranged in a stack, with autumn-themed decorations and a small bowl of orange spread nearby.
Tasty Pumpkin Turnovers. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Any dessert spread is enhanced by Tasty Pumpkin Turnovers, which introduce a flaky exterior and smooth pumpkin filling to the after-dinner lineup. These handheld treats are easy to share and usually disappear quickly from the platter. Light spices complement the pumpkin, making each bite special. Guests appreciate their grab-and-go nature and often come back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Tasty Pumpkin Turnovers

Smoked New York Strip Roast

A piece of smoked New York strip roast meat on a cutting board next to a knife.
Smoked New York Strip Roast. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Carving stations gain distinction with Smoked New York Strip Roast, where tender slices reveal a rosy center and expertly seasoned crust. The smoking process gives the meat a deep character and rich aroma. Juices stay locked in, ensuring every serving is as flavorful as the first. Guests frequently compliment this hearty centerpiece, which anchors the table with confidence.
Get the Recipe: Smoked New York Strip Roast

Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

A black plate holds Pumpkin Linzer cookies dusted with powdered sugar.
Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Gift baskets and dessert plates become memorable with the addition of Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies, showcasing a golden cookie sandwich and pumpkin filling. The dusting of powdered sugar on top gives them a charming finishing touch. Each bite has a gentle hint of spice, complementing tea and coffee breaks. Friends and family alike remember these for their unique presentation and flavor.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Linzer Cookies

White Bean Salad

A plate of White Bean Salad with arugula, white beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, cucumber, and crumbled cheese.
White Bean Salad. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Buffets get a refreshing boost from White Bean Salad, which brings together tender beans, crisp vegetables, and light dressing for a lovely side. Adding this to a menu means a healthy, plant-based option for guests. The flavors mix well without overpowering the palate, pairing efficiently with richer fare. Requests for seconds and the recipe itself are common with this dish.
Get the Recipe: White Bean Salad

Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

A Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins cut in half on a plate reveals a creamy filling, with more muffins in a basket and a bowl of diced fruit in the background.
Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Snack tables stand out when Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins are around, offering moist muffins with a creamy surprise in the center. The blend of autumn spices and rich cream cheese makes a memorable match. Their portable size ensures they disappear fast, pleasing both children and adults. These muffins often prompt conversation and plenty of praise from guests.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cream Cheese Muffins

Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Mashed potatoes with cream cheese topped with melted butter and garnished with fresh parsley.
Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Comfort food appearances become special with Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese on the table, delivering a rich, smooth texture that is hard to forget. Cream cheese works its magic, making every spoonful extra velvety. This side dish is a reliable companion to hearty mains, ensuring balance on every plate. Guests quickly notice the difference and often ask for more.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potatoes with Cream Cheese

Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Six pumpkin whoopie pies with cream filling are arranged on a gray plate, viewed from above. Two cinnamon sticks are visible at the edge of the plate.
Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Gathering dessert plates attracts attention with Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies, soft cookies sandwiched with a sweet, creamy filling. Pumpkin puree adds both moisture and a festive touch to every bite. This recipe provides a fun twist on a classic, drawing praise for both presentation and taste. Friends and family routinely ask for the secret behind these treats.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Whoopie Pies

Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

A square slice of corn pudding casserole with eggs, red bell pepper, and chives sits on a white plate with a serving spoon underneath.
Classic Corn Pudding Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Table spreads are never complete without Classic Corn Pudding Casserole, a comforting dish that fills out any lineup with creamy texture and mild sweetness. Corn’s natural flavor stands out without overwhelming the senses, and the casserole format makes it easy to serve. Both adults and children consider it a staple, guaranteed to keep plates coming back for more. Each batch is met with happy responses and quick requests for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Classic Corn Pudding Casserole

Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Two small white bowls of applesauce topped with cinnamon are placed on a wooden board next to cinnamon sticks, an apple, and a jar of applesauce.
Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Busy cooks appreciate how Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe simplifies the process, offering tender, spiced apples in less time than traditional methods. The smooth, homemade taste outshines anything from a jar, and there’s just the right amount of sweetness. As a topping or side, it finds a welcome spot among classic dishes. Guests are quick to notice the effort and often ask for details about the technique.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Instant Pot Applesauce Recipe

Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

A baked casserole topped with chopped green onions and bacon pieces, with one square being served from the dish using a spatula.
Twice-Baked Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Potluck tables often draw a crowd around Twice-Baked Potato Casserole, with its layers of creamy potato, cheese, and crispy bacon bits. Baking twice ensures both a fluffy interior and golden top, while bold mix-ins keep things interesting. This dish rarely lasts long and often becomes a much-requested favorite. Compliments are as abundant as helpings for this crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

A loaf of glazed pumpkin bread with two slices cut sits on a wooden cutting board, surrounded by bowls containing glaze and orange puree.
Best Ever Pumpkin Bread. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Coffee breaks and brunch menus brighten with Best Ever Pumpkin Bread, known for its moist crumb and gentle spice blend. Slices stay soft for days, making this a convenient make-ahead choice. The aroma of fresh bread often brings people to the kitchen, eager for a taste. Every loaf disappears faster than expected, leaving only requests for another batch.
Get the Recipe: Best Ever Pumpkin Bread

Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Cauliflower with lemon and dill on a black board.
Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Healthy options shine when Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill is offered, blending roasted florets with bright citrus and herbal notes. This vegetable side delivers a light, refreshing contrast to heavier dishes. Flavors meld nicely, and the easy preparation means it fits in well with any kitchen schedule. People often comment on how this dish stands out among traditional fare.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower with Lemon and Dill

Easy Pumpkin Waffles

Two stacked square waffles with syrup on a white plate, set on a white textured surface.
Easy Pumpkin Waffles. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Brunch takes on a special touch with Easy Pumpkin Waffles, serving up crisp edges and tender interiors infused with pumpkin puree. Warm spices run through each bite, offering something unique compared to traditional waffles. The recipe’s simplicity encourages frequent repetition and sharing. Plates rarely hold just one, with guests reaching for another square immediately.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Waffles

Cream of Onion Soup

Two bowls of cream onion soup on a wooden table.
Cream of Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Soups start things off with comfort, and Cream of Onion Soup is rich and flavorful, combining tender onions with a smooth, velvety liquid base. Each spoonful warms guests while delivering subtle sweetness and depth. This soup’s consistency makes it an ideal start to any meal. Bowl after bowl gets finished, usually with compliments to whoever made it.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Onion Soup

Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

A baking tray filled with a layer of chopped apples coated in a cinnamon-sugar mixture.
Caramel Apple Sheet Cake. Photo credit: Dinner by Six.

Potlucks feel complete once Caramel Apple Sheet Cake is served, treating friends and family to a familiar blend of apples, spice, and a sweet caramel topping. The sheet cake format allows easy cutting and sharing among a crowd. Moist crumb soaks up the caramel, ensuring a flavorful finish in every slice. Guests often point to this cake as a highlight of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Sheet Cake

Pumpkin Spice Scones

Five Pumpkin Spice scones with vanilla glaze are arranged in a circle on a round metal cooling rack over a light-colored surface.
Pumpkin Spice Scones. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Dessert platters and breakfast trays improve with Pumpkin Spice Scones, known for their tender crumb and balanced spice profile. A drizzle of sweet glaze brings out natural pumpkin flavors without overpowering them. These scones pair well with hot drinks and encourage lingering over breakfast. Sharing always leads to positive comments and requests for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Scones

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced turkey breast on a white plate with sprigs of thyme.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Keto Cooking Wins.

Busy hosts enjoy the convenience of Air Fryer Turkey Breast, which produces juicy slices and a crisp exterior in less time than traditional roasting. This method locks in moisture while allowing for customizable seasoning. Each bite feels lighter, making seconds an easy choice. Guests appreciate the modern take and often ask for preparation tips.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Pumpkin Crunch Cake

A slice of Pumpkin Crunch Cake on a white plate, topped with whipped cream, with a checkered cloth beside it and a baking dish in the background.
Pumpkin Crunch Cake. Photo credit: The Bite Stuff.

Dessert buffets take on extra appeal with Pumpkin Crunch Cake, featuring layers of soft pumpkin and a crispy topping. The texture difference adds interest, with each bite keeping guests coming back for more. This recipe is perfect for sharing with a group and stands out among other desserts. The flavors and textures spark repeat compliments throughout the event.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Crunch Cake

Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

A white plate with loaded sweet potato casserole topped with sour cream, bacon, cheese, and green onions, set on a brown charger plate with a fork and cooking utensils in the background.
Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Special meals reach new heights with Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole, which brings together rich sweet potatoes, crunchy nuts, and a hint of spice. Its topping offers extra flavor, making it impossible to overlook. Every spoonful is packed with layers that blend together beautifully. Guests frequently mention its unique take and memorable outcome.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Fully Loaded Sweet Potato Casserole

Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Green beans with pork on a black plate.
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Family dinners often gain a boost with Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans, slow-cooked to tenderness with smoky undertones and plenty of seasoning. The hands-off preparation method frees up time without sacrificing results. Beans absorb every bit of flavor while remaining bright and tender. Popularity is evident when this bowl is always empty by meal’s end.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans

Apple Fritter Bread

Three slices of apple fritter bread on a white plate.
Apple Fritter Bread. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Bread baskets often feature Apple Fritter Bread for its soft crumb and cinnamon-swirled apple pieces tucked inside. Each slice delivers just the right amount of sweetness and spice. The aroma alone is enough to gather people in the kitchen, eager to sample what’s inside. Warm slices rarely last long enough to cool, earning plenty of enthusiastic reviews.
Get the Recipe: Apple Fritter Bread

Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Two bowls of cream of butternut squash and sweet potato soup on a wooden table.
Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Starters become events of their own with Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup, merging sweet and spicy notes in a smooth, comforting blend. Each bowl offers warmth and depth without overpowering the senses. The vibrant color draws attention and brightens up any setting. Guests consistently praise its rich flavor and lovely texture.
Get the Recipe: Cream of Butternut Squash & Sweet Potato Soup

Dutch Apple Danishes

Golden brown Dutch Apple Danishes, topped with a fruit and nut filling, drizzled with white icing, displayed on a dark baking sheet.
Dutch Apple Danishes. Photo credit: Retro Recipe Book.

Breakfast spreads and snack trays get a touch of elegance with Dutch Apple Danishes, where flaky pastry meets spiced apple filling. Each pastry is perfectly portioned for easy sharing and serving. Icing on top rounds out the flavors, making them hard to pass up. Friends quickly look for seconds, and comments flow freely about their bakery-worthiness.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Apple Danishes

Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl

A bowl of Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl with a bottle of dressing and a fork in the background.
Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Main courses welcome a refreshing touch thanks to Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl, balancing hearty grains, roasted vegetables, and tender salmon in every serving. The different components offer variety in each bite, keeping things interesting throughout the meal. Light dressing ties everything together without competing with the star ingredients. Nutritional balance and flavor make this a commonly praised choice.
Get the Recipe: Fall Harvest Salmon Bowl

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Homemade cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting on wooden serving board.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Breakfast options turn festive with Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls, complete with spirals of soft dough filled with pumpkin puree and warming spices. The glaze on top adds the right amount of sweetness without being overwhelming. Each roll offers a welcome twist to a classic favorite. Guests often declare these rolls a must-have after just one bite.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

A bowl of French onion soup with bread on top.
Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

First courses receive accolades with Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup, where slow-cooked onions and melted cheese make for a deeply flavorful start. Toasted bread added on top soaks up rich broth, enhancing the eating experience. The aroma fills the entire room before the first spoon even reaches the bowl. Guests are quick to finish and just as quick to compliment the cook.
Get the Recipe: Chef Jenn’s Famous French Onion Soup

Apple Dump Cake

A square of Apple Dump Cake topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a clear plate.
Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Simple desserts reach remarkable heights with Apple Dump Cake, blending spiced apples and cake mix into a warm, bubbling finish. Assembly requires minimal time, but the payoff is always impressive. Each spoonful combines soft fruit with a gently crisp topping. This dessert consistently earns requests for the recipe after it’s served.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake

Turkey à la King

A plate with a Turkey à la King and salad on it.
Turkey à la King. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Entrée selections increase in appeal with Turkey à la King, which brings together turkey, vegetables, and creamy sauce over fluffy biscuits or rice. The dish is known for its smooth texture and balanced seasoning. Generous servings make it easy to feed a crowd. Compliments are common as guests enjoy both the taste and presentation.
Get the Recipe: Turkey à la King

Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Baked apple-crumble dessert with ice cream and caramel drizzle, homemade cozy fall treat.
Apple Crisp with Ice Cream. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Dessert finales are often measured by classics like Apple Crisp with Ice Cream, where hot apple filling meets cool, creamy scoops for a memorable contrast. Crumb topping adds texture and extra flavor to every bite. The warmth of the baked apples pairs perfectly with the cold treat. Everyone reaches for a serving and typically comes back for a little more.
Get the Recipe: Apple Crisp with Ice Cream

Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

A black plate with bacon and mushroom tartlets on it.
Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Appetizers get a boost of flavor with Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets, offering a flaky shell filled with a delicious mix of bacon and earthy mushrooms. Each tartlet is packed with taste and is easy to handle while mingling. These bite-sized snacks disappear quickly and leave guests asking for more. The combination makes them a dependable party favorite.
Get the Recipe: Bacon and Mushroom Tartlets

Pumpkin Dump Cake

A slice of layered pumpkin dessert topped with whipped cream and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a white plate.
Pumpkin Dump Cake. Photo credit: Bake What You Love.

Potlucks and casual gatherings often feature Pumpkin Dump Cake, an easy-to-make solution that transforms basic pantry items into a warm, inviting dessert. Pumpkin and cake mix melt together beneath a slightly crunchy topping. The result strikes a perfect balance, drawing appreciation from both cake and pumpkin enthusiasts. Sharing this recipe usually leads to plenty of grateful remarks.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Dump Cake

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *