21 Thanksgiving Main Dishes You Can’t Afford to Miss This Year

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If you’re planning Thanksgiving, the main dish is where the magic starts. These picks are flavorful, approachable, and guaranteed to make everyone at the table smile. Think of them as your secret weapon for a meal that feels special without being stressful. You’ll have everyone talking about this year’s dinner.

Turkey Wet Brine

 

Brining is a simple trick that turns a regular turkey into a tender, juicy centerpiece. Follow this guide for step-by-step instructions to make your Thanksgiving bird pop with flavor.
Get the Recipe: How To Brine A Turkey

Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Gravy

Quick and fuss-free, this Instant Pot turkey breast delivers juicy meat and rich gravy in under an hour. Perfect for when you want a stress-free, flavorful main for your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Turkey Breast with Gravy

Paper Bag Turkey

No constant basting needed with this classic paper bag method. It locks in all the juices for a tender, flavorful turkey that will impress without extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Paper Bag Turkey Recipe

Best Smoked Turkey For Thanksgiving

Bring bold, smoky flavor to your Thanksgiving spread with this standout turkey. Juicy meat and rich aroma make it a main dish your guests will remember.
Get the Recipe: Best Smoked Turkey For Thanksgiving

Oven Baked Ham with Brown Sugar Glaze

This brown sugar glaze transforms a precooked ham into a tender, golden, and flavorful centerpiece. The sweet aroma filling your kitchen makes it hard to resist sneaking a slice.
Get the Recipe: How To Slow Cook A Precooked Ham In The Oven

Turkey Loaf

Skip the whole turkey and still enjoy classic flavors with this moist, savory turkey loaf. Topped with gravy, it offers comfort and ease in every slice.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Loaf Recipe

Sheet Pan Roast Pork Tenderloin with Potatoes

Everything cooks together on one pan for a juicy, tender pork tenderloin with perfectly roasted potatoes. A simple yet impressive main for your Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Roast Pork Tenderloin with Potatoes

Best Thanksgiving Turkey

This perfectly roasted turkey is golden, juicy, and full of classic flavor. Step-by-step guidance ensures a centerpiece that leaves guests impressed every time.
Get the Recipe: Best Thanksgiving Turkey Recipe for Beginners

Oven Roasted Turkey Breast With Maple Cayenne Glaze

Maple sweetness meets a hint of cayenne for a turkey breast with bold, balanced flavor. Ideal for smaller gatherings where a standout main is needed.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roasted Turkey Breast With Maple Cayenne Glaze

Prime Rib Roast

Showcase a luxurious main course with a perfectly cooked prime rib roast. Tender, flavorful, and simple to prepare, it’s a surefire way to impress your Thanksgiving guests.
Get the Recipe: Prime Rib

Turkey And Gravy (Beginner-Friendly)

Starting your Thanksgiving journey? This beginner-friendly turkey makes it feel effortless, giving you tender meat and smooth onion gravy without the stress. A great pick if you want a classic that always delivers.
Get the Recipe: Turkey And Gravy Recipe (Beginner-Friendly)

Turkey Roulade With Garlic And Herbs

Give your Thanksgiving spread a little upgrade with this herb-packed turkey roulade. It slices beautifully, looks impressive on the table, and brings a fresh twist to the traditional roast.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Roulade With Garlic And Herbs

Traeger Smoked Turkey

Smoky, juicy, and packed with rich flavor, this Traeger turkey brings big personality to your holiday table. It’s a standout main dish that guests will remember long after the last slice is gone.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey

Turkey On The Grill

A grilled turkey brings bright flavor and frees up space in the kitchen—perfect for a busy Thanksgiving day. Lemon, garlic, and herbs give every bite a fresh, savory finish that keeps everyone coming back.
Get the Recipe: Turkey On The Grill

Pineapple Glazed Ham

If you’re looking for a sweet-and-savory showpiece, this pineapple-glazed ham fits right in. The simple glaze brings a bright, glossy finish that makes it a holiday favorite year after year.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Glazed Ham Recipe

Juicy Pork Loin Roast With Gravied Potatoes

This hearty pork roast brings comfort and flavor together in one easy main dish. The buttery potatoes soak up all the juices, making it a cozy option that still feels holiday-worthy.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Pork Loin Roast Recipe With Potatoes

Prime Rib with Au Jus

For a holiday meal that feels extra special, this prime rib delivers rich flavor and a silky au jus that ties everything together. It’s a classic choice when you want to treat your guests to something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Prime Rib with Au Jus

Turkey Dry Brine

For a turkey that stays juicy and flavorful, this simple dry brine does the heavy lifting. It’s an easy prep-ahead step that helps your bird shine without any extra fuss.
Get the Recipe: Easy Turkey Dry Brine Recipe

Turkey Salisbury Steak

This lighter take on Salisbury steak still brings big comfort thanks to the savory gravy and tender turkey patties. It’s a fun, unexpected main dish that fits right into a holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Salisbury Steak Recipe

Juicy Turkey Breasts In Crock Pot With Creamy Gravy

This slow cooker turkey keeps things simple while still delivering tender meat and a silky gravy everyone loves. It’s an effortless main dish that frees you up to focus on the rest of your feast.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Turkey Breasts In Crock Pot With Creamy Gravy

Chicken Enchilada Layered Casserole

When you want something cozy and crowd-pleasing, this layered chicken enchilada bake brings bold flavors with minimal prep. It’s a fun alternative main dish that fits right into a relaxed holiday meal.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Enchilada Layered Casserole (Easy Homemade Sauce)