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This week, I’m at my sister’s house in Virginia for our annual Thanksgiving celebration. With a cozy space and lots of family under one roof, the energy can run high, but that’s part of the charm! Thanksgiving often stirs up a mix of emotions, so this year, let’s focus on gratitude and togetherness.
One of my favorite traditions at my sister’s house happens during the big meal. Each of us writes down what we’re thankful for, with the year written at the top. It’s always a treat to look back at past lists and reflect on how much has changed or stayed the same. Sharing these thoughts aloud brings plenty of laughter and heartfelt moments, making it one of the best parts of the day.
When the family gathers, there are bound to be tears, joy, and everything in between; that’s the beauty of being together. My wish for you this year is a table full of delicious food, plenty of love, and endless reasons to be thankful.
If your menu isn’t entirely set yet, don’t worry; I have plenty of ideas on my website to help you find the perfect dish. Now, let’s dive into all things Thanksgiving food!
Turkey
When it comes to turkey, I’m making my cowboy butter turkey and will be dry-brining my turkey for about 24 hours.
- Cowboy butter turkey – a new recipe for this year and part of my 2024 holiday magazine!
- Orange spiced turkey
- Classic dry-brine turkey
- Turkey roulade with bacon and kale stuffing
- Citrus dry-brine turkey
- Don’t forget the cranberry marmalade
Side dishes
Sides may very well be one of my favorite parts of the Thanksgiving meal. Choose your favorites and enjoy!
- Cheese, bacon, and sausage stuffing
- Garlic butter Hasselback potatoes
- Cauliflower au gratin
- Traditional stuffing
- Homemade green bean casserole
- Easy sweet potato casserole
- Apple and sausage cornbread stuffing
- Stuffed acorn squash casserole
- Easy slow cooker stuffing
- Corn spoon bread
- Grandma’s mashed potatoes
- Roasted carrots with dates and pistachios
- Cranberry relish
- Cranberry sauce
Salads
I believe every meal benefits from something fresh and vibrant, and these salads are the perfect way to add that refreshing touch!
Bread
Bread is the ultimate way to savor every last bite of your meal. It’s perfect for soaking up sauces, gravies, and all those delicious remnants left on the plate!
Dessert
Don’t forget to save room for dessert! In our family, we like to take a break after the main meal (about an hour or two) to clean up, relax, and make a little more space for something sweet. When the time comes, dessert is always better enjoyed with a fresh cup of coffee to round out the celebration!
I hope you and your family have a wonderful Thanksgiving!

Previous Monthly Newsletters to Read
- The October 2024 Guide
- The September 2024 Guide
- The August 2024 Guide
- The November 2023 Guide – see the same month as last year!
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Hello!
I just discovered YOU and your cooking tips and videos! Thank you for explaining everything so easily and clearly! I am having fun trying new recipes.
I also loved the video you made of all of the decorating you did for Christmas!
We just remodeled our kitchen and I wanted to ask about your vent. We wanted a Wolf Stove but the wait was too long so we opted for a Monogram. I am not happy with the vent and wondered if you would tell me more about yours as it looks more like it matches your cabinets.
Thanks!
Susan