17 Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes That Outshine the Sides

Thanksgiving sides might get attention, but those 17 turkey recipes completely steal the show. Each one brings flavor that makes the main dish impossible to ignore. Guests may praise the mashed potatoes, but they’re really here for the turkey. By the end, even the stuffing knows it’s been outshone.

A steaming chicken pot pie with a golden-brown crust, partially cut open to reveal chunks of chicken, peas, carrots, and mushrooms. Sprigs of rosemary garnish the top.
Turkey Pot Pie. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

Sheet pan meal with sliced roasted chicken breast, brussels sprouts, sweet potatoes, pecans, and pomegranate seeds, garnished with herbs.
Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

It’s amazing how one pan can make a holiday meal feel so simple yet complete. Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner brings everything together without the chaos of multiple dishes. It keeps cleanup easy and flavors balanced for a full, crowd-pleasing meal. Perfect for smaller gatherings that still deserve something special.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

Turkey Soup

A bowl of chicken soup with rice, carrots, celery, herbs, and pepper sprinkled on top.
Turkey Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Nothing beats a warm bowl when you want comfort in its purest form. Turkey Soup brings that soothing, homey feel everyone looks forward to after a long day. It’s rich, easy to enjoy, and fills the kitchen with warmth. Each spoonful reminds you why classics stay loved for a reason.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Soup

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Sliced, seasoned, roasted turkey breast on a blue plate.
Air Fryer Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Quick meals can still taste like a feast when done right. That’s exactly what Air Fryer Turkey Breast delivers: tender, juicy, and ready without all the waiting. It’s ideal for smaller celebrations or casual dinners that still call for something special. Once you try it, it earns a permanent place on your menu.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Turkey Pinwheels

Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.
Turkey Pinwheels. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bite-sized foods have a way of stealing the spotlight at gatherings. Turkey Pinwheels do exactly that, bringing flavor and fun in every roll. They’re easy to grab, share, and enjoy with everyone around. Whether for parties or quick snacks, they always disappear fast.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pinwheels

Thanksgiving Casserole

A golden brown Thanksgiving casserole of baked stuffing garnished with fresh herbs.
Thanksgiving Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

All the comfort you expect from a big meal comes together in one dish. Thanksgiving Casserole captures the best parts of a holiday spread in an easy, no-fuss way. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and perfect for feeding a crowd. You’ll want to make it long after the big day ends.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Casserole

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

A roasted turkey stuffed with vegetables is served on a platter, surrounded by various side dishes including rolls, salad, and stuffing.
Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Every table deserves a centerpiece that feels worth waiting for. Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing brings that moment of excitement when it’s finally time to carve and serve. It’s festive, rich, and makes any gathering feel complete. Nothing quite compares to its timeless comfort.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Turkey Sliders

Close-up of a seasoned bagel sandwich with melted cheese and turkey slider filling, topped with seeds.
Turkey Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Mini sandwiches always have a way of making mealtime more fun. Turkey Sliders deliver that balance of comfort and ease in every bite. They’re simple to serve, great for sharing, and work well for any casual occasion. Once they hit the table, they never last long.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Roasted Turkey

A roasted turkey garnished with herbs, boasting a golden brown, crispy skin, presented on a gleaming glass platter.
Roasted Turkey. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Some meals earn their reputation by doing everything right, every single time. Roasted Turkey is one of those timeless dishes that never goes out of style. It’s tender, golden, and always the star at gatherings. You can count on it to impress without fail.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey

Turkey Meatloaf

Close-up view of sliced turkey meatloaf with a browned crust on top, revealing a moist and textured interior. The meatloaf appears to contain pieces of onions and possibly sun-dried tomatoes.
Turkey Meatloaf. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Comfort food takes many forms, but few feel as dependable as this one. Turkey Meatloaf keeps things hearty yet lighter, perfect for family dinners that need something classic. It slices beautifully and pairs with almost anything. It’s one of those meals that quietly becomes a regular favorite.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Meatloaf

Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Tetrazzini . Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.
Turkey Tetrazzini. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When dinner needs to feel cozy but still easy to manage, this one hits the mark. Turkey Tetrazzini combines creamy texture with that comforting, familiar appeal of a family favorite. It’s perfect for feeding a crowd without the stress. You’ll want leftovers, but there might not be any.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tetrazzini

Turkey Chili

A close-up of a pot of chili with beans, avocado slices, red onion, sour cream, and garnished with chopped cilantro.
Turkey Chili. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bold and comforting, this is the kind of meal that fits any busy day. Turkey Chili gives you that slow-cooked flavor in much less time. It’s hearty, warm, and ideal for gatherings or weeknight dinners. Every bowl feels like something worth slowing down for.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Close-up of sliced glazed turkey breast with visible seasoning.
Maple Glazed Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A little sweetness goes a long way when it comes to bringing out the best in a meal. Maple Glazed Turkey Breast proves that balance perfectly. It’s flavorful, moist, and perfect for when you want something elegant but easy. Once you try it, it’ll stay in your rotation.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Close-up of sliced roasted chicken with crispy skin, garnished with herbs.
Perfect Spatchcock Turkey. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Getting even cooking and big flavor doesn’t have to be complicated. Perfect Spatchcock Turkey makes it happen while keeping things quicker than the usual roast. The result is tender meat and crisp edges that everyone loves. It’s a showstopper that earns plenty of compliments every time.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Turkey Meatballs

Close-up of meatballs covered in gravy, topped with chopped parsley, resting on mashed potatoes.
Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized comfort food that fits into any meal? That’s what Turkey Meatballs bring to the table. They’re hearty, versatile, and perfect for both appetizers or main courses. Every batch feels like something worth making again and again.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Meatballs

Turkey Casserole

Close-up of a plate of creamy turkey casserole topped with bread crumbs and garnished with fresh basil leaves, reminiscent of a comforting turkey casserole.
Turkey Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

One-dish meals never disappoint when you need something filling without extra fuss. Turkey Casserole keeps things simple while still delivering that familiar homemade comfort. It’s great for family dinners, potlucks, or using up leftovers in a smart way. It’s the kind of dish that keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Casserole

Turkey Gravy

Close-up of a bowl filled with creamy turkey gravy soup, featuring small bubbles and herbs on the surface. The bowl has a reddish-brown rim.
Turkey Gravy. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

No meal feels truly complete without something to pour over the main event. Turkey Gravy ties everything together with its rich, smooth texture and deep flavor. It’s what makes each plate come alive. You’ll find yourself making extra just to have enough.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Gravy

Turkey Pot Pie

A steaming chicken pot pie with a golden-brown crust, partially cut open to reveal chunks of chicken, peas, carrots, and mushrooms. Sprigs of rosemary garnish the top.
Turkey Pot Pie. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few meals can make a table feel more inviting than this timeless favorite. Turkey Pot Pie delivers that flaky, golden comfort everyone looks forward to. It’s rich, hearty, and perfect for both small dinners and larger get-togethers. Every slice brings a sense of home no matter where you are.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie

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