Ah, Thanksgiving! It’s that magical time of year where we gather around the table with family and friends, sharing stories, laughter, and of course, delicious food. I can’t emphasize enough how important it is to have the perfect *holiday recipes thanksgiving* that not only fill our bellies but also warm our hearts. This turkey and cranberry bake is one of my absolute favorites, and trust me, it’s a staple at my Thanksgiving gatherings! It’s so comforting, combining tender turkey, sweet cranberry, and creamy mashed potatoes, all baked together to create a dish that feels like a warm hug. You won’t just be serving a meal; you’ll be creating memories that last a lifetime!
Ingredients List
- 2 cups of diced turkey (leftover turkey works wonderfully!)
- 1 cup of cranberry sauce (homemade or store-bought, both are great!)
- 1 cup of green beans (freshly trimmed and chopped, or you can use frozen)
- 1 cup of creamy mashed potatoes (make them from scratch or use your favorite instant kind)
- 1/2 cup of rich gravy (feel free to adjust based on your preference for sauciness)
- 1/4 cup of chopped parsley (for a fresh, vibrant garnish)
How to Prepare Instructions
- First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures everything bakes evenly and gets that lovely golden color.
- Now, grab a large baking dish (I like using a 9×13 inch one) and layer the diced turkey across the bottom. Make sure it’s spread out evenly so every bite gets that juicy turkey goodness.
- Next, spread the cranberry sauce over the turkey. You want to use enough to cover the turkey nicely—this is where the sweetness starts to shine through!
- Time to add the green beans! Sprinkle them on top of the cranberry sauce. If you’re using frozen, no need to thaw them first; they’ll heat up beautifully in the oven.
- Now for the mashed potatoes! Layer them on top of the green beans, making sure to spread them out so they create a nice, even blanket over everything.
- Pour the gravy evenly over the mashed potatoes. Don’t be shy here—this adds so much flavor and moisture!
- It’s time to bake! Pop the dish into the oven and bake for about 30 minutes. You want everything heated through and bubbly, with a little bit of golden crust on top.
- Once it’s done, take it out and let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with chopped parsley for that fresh touch before serving. You’ll love how vibrant it looks!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy holiday schedules!
- A delightful combination of savory turkey, sweet cranberry, and creamy potatoes that everyone will adore.
- Ideal for using up leftover turkey, making it both economical and delicious.
- Bakes together in one dish, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.
- Versatile and customizable—feel free to add your favorite veggies or spices!
- Perfectly suited for Thanksgiving gatherings, bringing comfort and joy to your table.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Tips for Success
To make sure your turkey and cranberry bake turns out absolutely perfect, here are some tried-and-true tips that I always keep in mind!
- Use leftover turkey: If you have any turkey from last year’s feast or even from a roast you did recently, it adds an amazing depth of flavor and makes this dish even more special.
- Adjust the gravy: If you love a saucier dish, don’t hesitate to add more gravy! I find that a little extra gravy really elevates the whole dish, making it super flavorful and comforting.
- Mix it up: Feel free to throw in some extra veggies like corn or peas if that’s what your family enjoys. It’s such a flexible recipe, and your creativity can shine!
- Don’t skip the parsley: It might seem like a small detail, but garnishing with fresh parsley adds a pop of color and brightness to the dish. Plus, it gives a fresh flavor that balances all the richness beautifully!
- Let it rest: Once it comes out of the oven, give it a few minutes to cool down. This helps the layers settle and makes serving easier. Trust me, the wait is worth it!
Nutritional Information
When it comes to those *holiday recipes thanksgiving*, I know we all want to enjoy our meals without any guilt, right? So here’s a quick breakdown of the nutritional values for this delicious turkey and cranberry bake. Keep in mind these are estimates, but they give you a good idea of what you’re serving up!
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 10g
- Protein: 25g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Cholesterol: 70mg
This dish packs a flavorful punch while still being relatively balanced. So, go ahead and indulge a little—it’s Thanksgiving after all!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this turkey and cranberry bake ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day in advance and keep it covered in the fridge. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready to serve, and it’ll taste just as delicious!
What if I don’t have turkey?
No problem! You can substitute the turkey with cooked chicken or even a plant-based protein if you’re looking for a vegetarian option. It’ll still be delightful!
Can I use canned cranberry sauce?
Yes, definitely! Canned cranberry sauce works perfectly here. It’s convenient and still gives that lovely sweet-tart flavor we love in this dish.
How long can leftovers be stored?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave, and you’ll have a quick meal ready to go!
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes! This turkey and cranberry bake is gluten-free, as long as you ensure your gravy is also gluten-free. It’s a great option for those with dietary restrictions!
Variations
If you’re feeling adventurous or just want to mix things up a bit, there are so many fun ways to customize this turkey and cranberry bake! Here are some of my favorite variations that add a little twist while still keeping that comforting essence we all love:
- Vegetable Medley: Swap in different vegetables like corn, peas, or even sautéed mushrooms for an added depth of flavor. Broccoli or cauliflower can also bring a nice crunch!
- Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the turkey layer. It adds an exciting flavor that balances beautifully with the sweetness of the cranberry sauce.
- Herb Infusion: Mix in some fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary with the turkey for an aromatic touch. These herbs complement the savory elements and give the dish a lovely fragrance.
- Cheesy Goodness: For cheese lovers, sprinkle a layer of shredded cheddar or mozzarella cheese over the mashed potatoes before baking. It creates a deliciously gooey topping that everyone will adore!
- Sweet Potato Mash: Instead of regular mashed potatoes, try using sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter and more nutritious twist. Just mash them up the same way, and they’ll add a beautiful color and flavor!
- Nutty Crunch: Top the dish with a handful of chopped pecans or walnuts before baking. They’ll toast in the oven and add a delightful crunch that contrasts with the creamy layers.
Feel free to get creative and make this dish your own! The beauty of this recipe is how forgiving it is—just think about what your family loves, and go from there. You can’t go wrong!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Now, let’s talk about storing those delicious leftovers! You know how it is—Thanksgiving brings plenty of food, and this turkey and cranberry bake is just too good to waste. Here’s how to keep it fresh and tasty for those late-night snacking sessions or the next day’s lunch.
- Storing Leftovers: Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps prevent condensation from making everything soggy. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. If you think you won’t finish it in that time, consider freezing it!
- Freezing: To freeze, portion out the leftovers into individual servings or keep it all together. Wrap the dish tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil for extra protection. It should keep well in the freezer for up to 2 months. Just remember to label it so you know what you have stashed away!
When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheating is key to keeping the flavors intact.
- Reheating in the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Cover the dish with aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out and bake for about 20–25 minutes, or until heated through. If you like it a bit crispy on top, remove the foil for the last 5 minutes!
- Microwave Method: If you’re in a pinch, you can microwave individual portions. Just place them in a microwave-safe dish, cover it (a microwave-safe lid or even a damp paper towel works), and heat for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Be careful, as it can get hot quickly!
Whichever method you choose, just know that reheating this dish is a breeze, and you’ll be savoring those delightful flavors all over again! Enjoy every last bite, because trust me, it’s just as comforting the second time around.
Serving Suggestions
Now that you’ve got this scrumptious turkey and cranberry bake ready to go, let’s talk about how to make your Thanksgiving table even more delightful! The right sides can really elevate your meal and create a harmonious dining experience. Here are some of my go-to serving suggestions that pair beautifully with this dish:
- Classic Stuffing: A warm, savory stuffing made with herbs and bread is a must-have at any Thanksgiving feast. The flavors complement the turkey and cranberry perfectly!
- Roasted Vegetables: Toss together some seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes, drizzle them with olive oil, and roast until tender. They add a lovely color and earthy flavor to your plate.
- Creamy Mac and Cheese: For a little indulgence, a cheesy mac and cheese casserole adds a comforting touch that kids and adults alike can’t resist. It’s creamy, dreamy, and oh-so-satisfying!
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: If you want to keep it classic, serve a side of garlic mashed potatoes. They’re fluffy, buttery, and pair wonderfully with the turkey bake’s gravy!
- Fresh Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cranberries, walnuts, and a tangy vinaigrette can be a refreshing contrast to the richness of the turkey bake. Plus, it adds a nice crunch!
- Cranberry Sauce: While you’ve got cranberry sauce mixed in the bake, serving a little extra on the side is always a hit. The tartness balances out the savory flavors beautifully!
- Pumpkin Pie: And let’s not forget dessert! A slice of homemade pumpkin pie with whipped cream is the ultimate way to end a Thanksgiving meal. It’s a classic for a reason!
Feel free to mix and match these suggestions to create a spread that your family will love. The goal is to make your Thanksgiving gathering feel festive and enjoyable, bringing everyone together around the table with delicious food and cherished memories. Happy feasting!
Imprimer
Holiday Recipes Thanksgiving: 7 Comforting Dishes to Savor
- Temps Total: 50 minutes
- Rendement: 6 servings 1x
- Alimentation: Sans Gluten
Description
A festive dish perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.
Ingrédients
- 2 cups of diced turkey
- 1 cup of cranberry sauce
- 1 cup of green beans
- 1 cup of mashed potatoes
- 1/2 cup of gravy
- 1/4 cup of chopped parsley
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- In a large baking dish, layer the diced turkey.
- Spread the cranberry sauce over the turkey.
- Add the green beans on top of the cranberry sauce.
- Layer the mashed potatoes over the green beans.
- Pour the gravy evenly over the mashed potatoes.
- Bake in the oven for 30 minutes.
- Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Notes
- Feel free to use leftover turkey.
- You can substitute fresh green beans with frozen.
- Adjust the amount of gravy to your liking.
- Temps De Préparation: 20 minutes
- Temps De Cuisson: 30 minutes
- Catégorie: Main Dish
- Méthode: Baking
- Cuisine: American
La Nutrition
- Taille D'Une Portion: 1 serving
- Calories: 350
- Sucre: 10g
- De Sodium: 500mg
- La graisse: 15g
- Graisses Saturées: 5g
- Les Graisses Insaturées: 8g
- Les Gras Trans: 0g
- Les hydrates de carbone: 40g
- La fibre: 5g
- La protéine: 25g
- Le taux de cholestérol: 70mg
Mots-clés: holiday recipes thanksgiving
