The Go-To Thanksgiving Main Dishes I’ve Made 17 Times

Thanksgiving traditions may change, but these 17 main dishes have managed to stay in rotation year after year. They work for big gatherings just as well as smaller, more casual celebrations. Each one brings a level of comfort that makes the holiday table feel complete. If holiday meals had a shortlist of winners, this collection would be at the top.

Turkey Chili

A big holiday meal always needs some comfort food, so you might want to add Turkey Chili to your table. It’s nice for sharing with a crowd and goes well with bread or rolls. People often ask where you got the idea for this hearty main dish. If you have leftovers, they keep well and work for sandwiches.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Chili

Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Try serving Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole because it brings everyone together. It has layers that keep people coming back for more servings, and the textures make for a good conversation starter. You can bring it out early in the meal since it stays warm for a long time. Sharing this dish often starts stories about past family dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

When you have people visiting from out of town, you might notice Maple Glazed Turkey Breast being mentioned over regular entrees. This dish adds a gentle sweetness and is often the first plate finished. It’s easy to carve, especially if you have guests who want smaller portions. Some folks prefer it instead of the whole turkey.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Pork Belly

Many people like dishes they don’t always see on the menu, such as Pork Belly. It’s a talking point at every table and always brings out laughter about trying something new at Thanksgiving. Cutting through it is easy, so it works great for kids and adults alike. You’ll notice guests asking for seconds because it pairs well with several sides.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly

Thanksgiving Casserole

Most groups appreciate a dish that brings many flavors together, which is why Thanksgiving Casserole gets requested a lot. It’s helpful if you need a main dish that feels complete without cooking separate sides. The layers make it very filling, so it can replace other mains if you need a backup plan. It’s simple to portion for larger crowds or smaller parties.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Casserole

Chicken Pot Pie

Sometimes people want something cozy, so Chicken Pot Pie finds its way to the center of your table often. The crust gets everyone talking while they wait for second helpings. Plates empty fast, so you should make extra if you’re hosting more than usual. Guests find the balance appealing, thanks to the way everything blends together inside.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Pot Pie

Roast Beef

You’ll hear folks compare Roast Beef to the classic turkey, but in most gatherings, it’s just as popular. Slices go quickly, especially when paired with potatoes or other sides. Some guests prefer it because it’s easy to serve with simple sauces. You won’t spend much time plating, which frees you up for conversations.
Get the Recipe: Roast Beef

Easy Cornbread Casserole

It’s common to hear people rave about Easy Cornbread Casserole when you put it on the table. Soft texture makes it kid-friendly, and adults often grab another scoop when they pass by. You can make extra ahead of time since it reheats without trouble. It even works as a main dish if you need something filling without being heavy.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Roasted Turkey

People expect to see Roasted Turkey at Thanksgiving, as it brings a sense of tradition to your meal. It’s easy to slice and serves as a centerpiece for any gathering, no matter the size. You’ll get questions about carving, so make sure you have a sharp knife ready. Leftovers are perfect for simple meals over the next few days.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey

Pumpkin Pasta

Sometimes people want to try something new, so serving Pumpkin Pasta gives your meal an extra twist. Its color stands out, making guests curious about the first bite. The flavors blend well, and it’s often a conversation piece among friends. You might end up sharing the recipe because it’s unique but not complicated.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pasta

Turkey Casserole

You don’t need to worry about making many side dishes when Turkey Casserole is on your menu. Filling layers bring out questions about what’s inside, adding interest for your guests. You’ll notice portions disappearing fast since it’s easy to serve and pass around. Some people prefer it over traditional mains because it’s familiar but still different.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Casserole

Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Vegetarian guests are always pleased when Roasted Whole Cauliflower appears at the holiday table. Its round shape makes for a good centerpiece if you need a non-meat option. Cutting into this dish gets attention, as people like seeing the inside. You won’t have trouble serving it to a large crowd since it divides cleanly.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Turkey Pot Pie

If you need a break from carving, Turkey Pot Pie is an easy pick. The crust holds together well, so plating is quick without any mess. Friends and family ask about how you got the filling so smooth year after year. You don’t need fancy sides since the pie already has plenty built in. Making extra always means you have ready-to-eat food for days after Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie

Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Those who like classic dishes ask for Easy Meatloaf Recipe when you host Thanksgiving. Cuts stay together, making it perfect for easy plating and serving. It works well for potlucks if you need something that travels without falling apart. You’ll hear stories from relatives remembering meatloaf dinners growing up.
Get the Recipe: Easy Meatloaf Recipe

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Sitting down to talk before the meal becomes easier with Slow Cooker Pot Roast since it stays warm for hours. You can prep the rest of your dishes while this main cooks without stress. Guests enjoy the way it falls apart without needing much effort. Serving is simple, so you get more time with friends and family.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Some cooks like trying new methods, which is why Perfect Spatchcock Turkey often shows up on holiday tables. Guests ask about the unique look and love how quick it cooks. Slicing portions takes less time, so everyone eats sooner. You don’t hear complaints about dryness, which is common with other mains.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Beef Wellington

Big family meals often call for something special, so Beef Wellington is a good way to impress your guests. The look of the pastry gets everyone interested before they even start eating. It’s not a common choice, which makes people feel like they’re part of something unique. Serving it is easier than you may think because it holds together while cutting.
Get the Recipe: Beef Wellington