Thanksgiving Meal Recipes

How to Cook a Turkey

Ingredients:

• 1 whole turkey (12-16 lbs)
• 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 1 tablespoon salt
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage)
• 1 onion, quartered
• 1 lemon, halved
• 4 cups chicken or turkey broth

Instructions:

1. Thaw the Turkey: Ensure your turkey is fully thawed. A frozen turkey needs about 24 hours in the refrigerator for every 5 pounds of weight.
2. Preheat the Oven: Set the oven to 325°F (163°C).
3. Prepare the Turkey: Remove the neck and giblets. Rinse the turkey inside and out, then pat dry with paper towels.
4. Season the Turkey: Mix salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Rub the softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin. Sprinkle the seasoning mix over the bird.
5. Stuff the Cavity: Fill the cavity with onion, lemon, and fresh herbs. This adds flavor but keeps it simple and safe.
6. Truss the Turkey: Tie the legs together with kitchen twine to ensure even cooking.
7. Roast: Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Pour broth into the pan to keep the meat moist. Cover with foil and roast for about 15 minutes per pound.
8. Baste: Remove the foil during the last 30-45 minutes and baste the turkey with pan drippings every 15 minutes for a golden, crispy skin.
9. Check the Temperature: The turkey is done when the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C).
10. Rest and Carve: Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving.

Thanksgiving Favorites

Classic Stuffing

• Ingredients: Bread cubes, onions, celery, chicken broth, butter, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Sauté onions and celery in butter, mix with bread cubes, herbs, and broth. Bake in a greased casserole dish at 350°F for 30 minutes.

Mashed Potatoes

• Ingredients: Potatoes, butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper.
• Instructions: Boil peeled potatoes until tender, mash them with butter and milk, and season with salt and pepper.

Green Bean Casserole

• Ingredients: Green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, French-fried onions.
• Instructions: Combine beans, soup, and milk. Top with fried onions and bake at 350°F for 20 minutes.

Cranberry Sauce

• Ingredients: Fresh cranberries, sugar, water, and orange zest.
• Instructions: Simmer cranberries, sugar, and water until thickened. Add orange zest for a citrusy kick.

Pumpkin Pie

• Ingredients: Canned pumpkin, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, evaporated milk, and a pie crust.
• Instructions: Mix the filling, pour into the crust, and bake at 375°F for 45 minutes or until set.

Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving

1. Plan Ahead: Prep dishes like stuffing and cranberry sauce a day or two in advance.
2. Delegate Tasks: Get family or guests involved with side dishes or desserts.
3. Time Management: Use a timeline to coordinate cooking times for multiple dishes.
4. Keep It Simple: Stick to tried-and-true recipes if you’re cooking for a crowd.

With these recipes and tips, you’ll be well on your way to a memorable Thanksgiving feast. Happy cooking and Happy Thanksgiving!