Five Quick and Easy Thanksgiving Recipes (Serves 4)
Thanksgiving is all about sharing a delicious meal with your loved ones and watching the miserable Cowboys lose. But let’s be honest—preparing an elaborate feast isn’t always realistic. Busy schedules, last-minute planning, or just the desire to keep things simple can make a traditional Thanksgiving dinner feel overwhelming. If this sounds like you, don’t worry! These five quick and easy Thanksgiving recipes will help you create a holiday meal that’s both impressive and stress-free.
1. Sheet Pan Turkey Breast with Veggies
Why It’s a Game Changer:
This dish keeps things simple by focusing on a tender turkey breast and veggies, all cooked on one pan for easy cleanup.
Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) boneless turkey breast
1 cup baby potatoes, halved
1 cup green beans
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rub the turkey breast with olive oil and season with garlic powder, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Toss the baby potatoes and green beans with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then spread them on a sheet pan.
Place the turkey breast in the center of the pan and roast for 35–40 minutes, or until the turkey reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Let the turkey rest for 10 minutes, then slice and serve with the veggies.
2. 30-Minute Sweet Potato Casserole
Why It’s a Game Changer:
A streamlined take on this Thanksgiving favorite, perfect for smaller gatherings.
Ingredients:
2 cups canned sweet potatoes, drained
1/4 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp melted butter
2 tbsp milk
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 cup mini marshmallows
Instructions:
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Mash the sweet potatoes in a bowl and mix with brown sugar, melted butter, milk, and cinnamon.
Transfer the mixture to a small baking dish and top with mini marshmallows.
Bake for 15–20 minutes until the marshmallows are golden brown.
3. Thanksgiving Cranberry Sauce in 15 Minutes
Why It’s a Game Changer:
Fresh cranberry sauce in just a few steps—no need to rely on the canned version!
Ingredients:
6 ounces fresh cranberries (about 1 1/2 cups)
1/2 cup orange juice
1/4 cup sugar
Instructions:
Combine the cranberries, orange juice, and sugar in a medium saucepan.
Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 10–15 minutes until the cranberries burst and the sauce thickens.
Cool before serving for a tangy, fresh side dish.
4. 10-Minute No-Bake Pumpkin Pie
Why It’s a Game Changer:
Quick to prepare and no oven required—perfect for a smaller group.
Ingredients:
- 1 pre-made graham cracker crust (9-inch)
- 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup whipped topping
- 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/2 tsp pumpkin pie spice
Instructions:
Beat the cream cheese, sugar, and pumpkin pie spice together until smooth.
Fold in the pumpkin puree and whipped topping until fully combined.
Spread the mixture into the graham cracker crust and refrigerate for at least 1 hour before serving.
5. Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls (No-Knead)
Why It’s a Game Changer:
These soft, fluffy dinner rolls are made with minimal effort and bring a warm, homemade touch to your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tsp instant yeast
1 tbsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
3/4 cup warm milk
2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted (plus extra for brushing)
1 clove garlic, finely minced
1 tsp chopped parsley (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Dough: In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, sugar, and salt. Add the warm milk and melted butter, mixing until a sticky dough forms. Cover with a kitchen towel and let it rise in a warm place for 1–1.5 hours or until doubled in size.
Shape the Rolls: Lightly grease a baking dish. Divide the dough into 8 equal portions and roll them into balls. Place them close together in the dish. Cover and let rise again for 30 minutes.
Bake: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the rolls for 15–18 minutes or until golden brown on top.
Add Garlic Butter: While the rolls bake, mix the minced garlic with a little melted butter. Brush the rolls with the garlic butter as soon as they come out of the oven. Sprinkle with parsley for a pop of color (optional).
Serve and Enjoy: These warm, buttery rolls are the perfect accompaniment to your Thanksgiving meal and can be made fresh or prepared a day ahead.
Thanksgiving Hassle-Free
Preparing Thanksgiving for four doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. These simple recipes are perfectly portioned and easy to make, so you can enjoy the holiday without having to spend hours in the kitchen. From the main course to dessert, you’ve got everything covered in no time.
Happy Thanksgiving! 🍂