When people want to avoid that “hangry” edge creeping in, any of these 31 Thanksgiving main recipes makes it easier to plan something steady and reliable. Each one brings its own style so the collection suits a range of hosting situations. I appreciate when the main dish feels comforting without turning into extra work. Expect options designed to keep the day running smoothly from the first bite onward.
Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Stress melts away once this Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner comes out of the oven hot and ready. Each bite brings a complete holiday meal to the table with less fuss. Guests always marvel at how everything comes together so quickly. Serving this feels like giving everyone a warm welcome without a long wait.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Elegant yet down-to-earth, this Scalloped Potatoes and Ham offers simple comfort that can anchor your holiday meal. Every scoop layers creamy potatoes and savory ham in a way that keeps the table conversation flowing. I especially love bringing this dish for those who crave something besides turkey. Seconds always disappear in record time.
Get the Recipe: Scalloped Potatoes and Ham
Roasted Turkey Legs
Nothing quite beats the first bite of this Roasted Turkey Legs on Thanksgiving. The meat comes off tender and juicy, making it worth every moment of anticipation. People unwind once these are on their plates, ready to dig in together. Going for legs instead of the whole bird adds a little fun to the classic holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey Legs
Classic Meatloaf
Family gatherings feel extra cozy with this Classic Meatloaf as the centerpiece. The aroma wafting through the kitchen lets everyone know something special is on its way. I go for this dish when I want universal comfort that’s easy to serve. Every slice shakes off stress, so nobody walks away hungry.
Get the Recipe: Classic Meatloaf
Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Conversation usually quiets down at the first forkful of this Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. Rich, creamy sauce turns simple meatballs into something everyone raves about. I notice smiles clear across the dining room whenever I bring this dish. Crowd-pleasers like this make hosting Thanksgiving much more relaxed.
Get the Recipe: Tender Marry Me Chicken Meatballs
Classic Turkey Meatloaf
A twist on Thanksgiving, this Classic Turkey Meatloaf gives guests a familiar favorite with just the right seasonal touch. Moist slices pair great with gravy or cranberry sauce. I make this when I want something a little different but still true to the holiday spirit. No one ever misses the whole bird with this recipe on the menu.
Get the Recipe: Classic Turkey Meatloaf
Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Bringing people together is a breeze with this Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole front and center. Every bite feels like home, especially once that aroma starts floating around. This is my go-to whenever I want a main that’s hearty without being fussy. Sharing this always sparks conversations about comfort food favorites.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken and Rice Casserole
Hearty Stuffed Cabbage
Plates look heartier once this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage finds its way around the table. Tangy and warm, this dish holds its own while folks reach for second helpings. I pull this recipe out for gatherings that need a main with a little extra soul. Even people who aren’t usually cabbage fans come back for another roll.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage
Tender Roasted Broccoli
Freshness makes a welcome entrance with this Tender Roasted Broccoli next to the heavier mains. Roasted until golden, every speared floret adds bright flavor to the meal. I always notice how quickly it vanishes—even vegetable skeptics come back for seconds. Greens like these round out Thanksgiving perfectly, making the whole meal lighter.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roasted Broccoli
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Carving into this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower gives the table something new to talk about. Roasted cauliflower brings impressive color and flavor, even among the most traditional dishes. I reach for this option as a hearty alternative for anyone skipping meat. Everyone’s curious to try a slice, and nobody leaves disappointed.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast
For smaller gatherings, this Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast offers a cozy alternative to clearing a whole bird. The glaze brings a festive sweetness that guests remember. I hear people comment on how beautiful it looks as they serve themselves. Plates always get emptied long before the main course is officially over.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Maple Glazed Turkey Breast
Tender Roast Beef
A holiday meal instantly feels more special with this Tender Roast Beef carrying tradition to the table. Slicing into that perfectly roasted meat earns nods of approval from everyone. Whether paired with classic potatoes or served alone, the rich flavor wins over the crowd. Dinner seems to slow down, giving everyone time to savor every bite.
Get the Recipe: Tender Roast Beef
Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Making room for conversation is easy with this Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast on your Thanksgiving table. The meat falls apart perfectly, keeping everyone close and content while it serves itself up hot. I lean on this dish for bigger gatherings since it never feels rushed. Simple, reliable favorites like this always win the day.
Get the Recipe: Tender Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Pasta meets November with this Creamy Pumpkin Pasta that feels both festive and comforting. Each forkful unveils cozy autumn flavors, making every guest pause and smile. I notice conversation turns to favorite holiday traditions the moment this arrives. Not every main needs meat to leave a lasting impression at Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Pumpkin Pasta
Flaky Turkey Pot Pie
Bubbles of savory filling hide under a golden crust in this Flaky Turkey Pot Pie. Slicing into the pastry brings comfort and a touch of nostalgia to the feast. I serve this when the mood calls for flaky goodness and familiar flavors. Nobody says no to seconds, even with all the sides nearby.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Turkey Pot Pie
Crispy Pork Belly
Holiday excitement picks up with this Crispy Pork Belly taking center stage. Every bite adds crisp texture and rich flavor, especially with all the classic vegetable sides. People lean in to get a closer look once the tray comes out. Mains like this one always become the talk of the meal, making the holiday feel a bit more memorable.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Pork Belly
Christmas Prime Rib Roast
Grand traditions shine with this Christmas Prime Rib Roast at Thanksgiving’s heart. Juicy, tender slices celebrate family, friends, and good company. Serving this dish feels like setting the scene for an unforgettable holiday. Plates get cleared as everyone takes time enjoying every bite, savoring the warmth of the moment.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Prime Rib Roast
Crockpot Turkey Breast
So many guests are surprised by how juicy this Crockpot Turkey Breast turns out every time. The slow cooking keeps the meat tender without hogging space in the oven. I often choose this for easier prep and less stress. Try it and you may never go back to roasting a whole turkey on Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Crockpot Turkey Breast
Flaky Chicken Pot Pie
Bringing classic comfort to the holiday, this Flaky Chicken Pot Pie always gets a warm reception. Crisp pastry gives way to bubbling, savory filling every time you dig in. Guests comment about the flavor and familiar textures as the meal begins. Serving this dish guarantees that nobody leaves the table feeling left out.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Chicken Pot Pie
Golden Roasted Turkey
Thanksgiving feels official as soon as this Golden Roasted Turkey emerges from the oven. The anticipation ends when you carry that stunning centerpiece to a waiting table. Carnivores and casual eaters both reach for slices, eager to claim their favorite piece. Nothing says “holiday” quite like carving up a golden bird before everyone’s eyes.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey
Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Serving something unexpected can brighten up Thanksgiving, and this Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole fits the bill. Each bite brings rich, layered comfort that stands out amidst classic sides. I notice even the pickiest eaters pausing to compliment this dish. It turns a casual gathering into a memorable feast with minimal extra work.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
Comforting Turkey Casserole
All the flavors of the holiday come together in this Comforting Turkey Casserole, perfect for feeding a hungry crowd. Spoonfuls land on plates fast as guests help themselves. I bring this dish to laid-back gatherings where everyone wants seconds without any fuss. You’ll watch the pan empty in record time as people come back for more.
Get the Recipe: Comforting Turkey Casserole
Classic Shepherds Pie
Cold weather gets a little easier to handle with this Classic Shepherds Pie in the main course lineup. Rich, layered comfort keeps conversations going and spirits lifted all evening. Guests are thrilled to discover it among the holiday foods. Even those with full plates make room for another bite of something this homey.
Get the Recipe: Classic Shepherds Pie
Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Elegant enough for a holiday but easy to love, this Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini always draws admirers. Noodles coated in velvety sauce become a favorite among both newcomers and regulars. I make extra because folks always ask for second helpings after the first forkful. Comforting pasta dishes work wonders at busy Thanksgiving gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Turkey Tetrazzini
Elegant Beef Wellington
Presentation reaches new heights with this Elegant Beef Wellington as your holiday centerpiece. Flaky pastry meets tender beef—a duo sure to impress. Guests often linger when a special dish like this arrives. There’s a hush across the table as everyone takes that coveted first slice.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Beef Wellington
Perfect Spatchcock Turkey
Carving up this Perfect Spatchcock Turkey changes the pace and delivers speedy, evenly roasted meat. Friends take notice of the gorgeous, crispy skin. I always enjoy the looks of surprise and nods of approval as the bird gets divided at the table. Spatchcocked turkey is great for making memories and fueling lively conversations.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Spatchcock Turkey
Ham Steaks
Simplicity shines on the holiday menu with this Ham Steaks sizzling up alongside other mains. Tender and juicy, ham let everyone build their own favorite plate. I reach for this recipe when I want an easy entrée with big flavor. Quick slicing and generous servings make the festivities flow smoother.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks
Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing
Combining all the highlights of Thanksgiving, this Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing looks as beautiful as it tastes. Guests always pause to admire before diving in. I love that every plate comes with a blend of savory and sweet flavors. The table feels complete once this iconic centerpiece is served.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing
Easy Cornbread Casserole
Crowd-pleasers like this Easy Cornbread Casserole make any feast brighter. Hearty yet slightly sweet, this dish brings comfort with every scoop. I watch guests light up as soon as they spot it, knowing it won’t last long. Classic staples have a way of making everyone feel right at home, sharing another helping through laughter.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole
Hearty Turkey Chili
Autumn gatherings heat up with bowls of this Hearty Turkey Chili passed around before the main event. The warm, savory aroma brings family and friends closer with each serving. I like to keep plenty on hand for both snacking and second rounds. Chili always sparks happy chatter, making lingering at the table even cozier during Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Chili
Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole
All the best flavors find a home in this Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole served hot and ready to dig in. Cozy bites include everything you love about the holiday meal in every spoonful. Guests are usually amazed at how complete the dish feels on its own. I recommend saving extra, since there’s almost never any left by the meal’s end.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole
