There is something truly magical about gathering around a table to share a feast, and this Thanksgiving Roast Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie Recipe perfectly captures that spirit. This classic holiday meal brings warmth, comfort, and togetherness in every bite, combining savory turkey and fluffy stuffing with creamy mashed potatoes, vibrant green beans, rich gravy, tart cranberry sauce, and sweet pumpkin pie to round things out. If you’re looking for a recipe that will fill your home with the aromas and flavors of Thanksgiving, while creating joyful memories, this comprehensive dish is your go-to.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients might look straightforward, but each plays an essential role in bringing this classic Thanksgiving meal to life with wonderful textures, delicious flavors, and appealing colors. Together, they build the foundation for your feast that everyone will love.
- Turkey (12-15 lbs): The star of the show, providing juicy, tender meat that holds all the holiday spirit.
- Stuffing (2 cups): Adds savory herbaceous goodness and moisture inside the turkey for flavor bursts.
- Green beans (1 lb): Offer a fresh, crisp contrast with vibrant color and just the right crunch.
- Mashed potatoes (4 cups): The ultimate comfort food base, creamy and buttery to complement hearty dishes.
- Gravy (2 cups): Pours luscious richness over turkey and potatoes, tying everything together beautifully.
- Cranberry sauce (1 can): Provides a bright, tangy-sweet balance that cuts through savory flavors.
- Pumpkin pie (1 whole): A classic dessert with warm spices and smooth texture to finish the meal.
How to Make Thanksgiving Roast Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Start by setting your oven to 325°F (165°C) to get it ready for roasting your turkey just right — slow and steady is the perfect approach for juicy results.
Step 2: Prepare and Stuff the Turkey
Season your whole turkey liberally with salt, pepper, and any favorite herbs, then lovingly fill its cavity with the prepared stuffing. This step infuses every bite with savory goodness and locks in moisture during roasting.
Step 3: Roast the Turkey
Place the stuffed turkey in a roasting pan and pop it into the oven. Roast for about 3 to 4 hours depending on its size, until the internal temperature reaches a safe 165°F in the thickest part. This slow roasting lets the skin crisp up and the meat stay juicy.
Step 4: Steam the Green Beans
While your turkey takes the spotlight, steam the green beans until just tender but still vibrant and crisp. This simple method preserves their fresh green color and natural sweetness.
Step 5: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender, then mash them with butter and milk until luxuriously creamy. These smooth mashed potatoes will soak up gravy perfectly on your plate.
Step 6: Heat the Gravy
Warm the gravy gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot and ready to drizzle over your turkey, potatoes, and stuffing for that irresistible rich finish.
Step 7: Serve the Cranberry Sauce
Open the can of cranberry sauce and place it in a pretty dish on the side of your spread. Its tart-sweet flavor offers a refreshing contrast that brightens every bite of this hearty feast.
Step 8: Slice and Serve the Pumpkin Pie
Once you’re ready for dessert, slice the pumpkin pie into generous wedges. Its warmly spiced filling and flaky crust make a sweet and cozy ending to your Thanksgiving celebration.
How to Serve Thanksgiving Roast Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of fresh herbs such as rosemary or sage tucked around the turkey or sprinkled over the mashed potatoes adds bursts of aroma and an elegant touch. Cracked black pepper on top of the green beans can also enhance every bite visually and flavor-wise.
Side Dishes
Although the main components create a well-rounded meal, you can also add simple extras like warm dinner rolls or a crisp autumn salad to elevate the plate and offer variety to your guests.
Creative Ways to Present
Arrange the turkey slices on a carving board surrounded by stuffing mounds for a rustic centerpiece. Serve mashed potatoes in mini ramekins with gravy in a gravy boat for guests to ladle themselves. For pumpkin pie, consider topping slices with whipped cream and a dusting of cinnamon to wow your crowd.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftover turkey, stuffing, and sides in airtight containers in the refrigerator within two hours of serving. They will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days, perfect for savoring post-holiday meals.
Freezing
If you have more leftovers than you can eat right away, freeze turkey slices and stuffing separately in freezer bags. Mashed potatoes also freeze well in sealed containers. This helps you extend the joy of Thanksgiving throughout the weeks to come.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently in the oven or microwave. Cover turkey slices and stuffing with foil to keep moisture intact, and stir mashed potatoes occasionally for even warming. Gravy can be warmed on the stove with a splash of water for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use a frozen turkey for this Thanksgiving Roast Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie Recipe?
Absolutely! Just make sure to fully thaw your turkey in the refrigerator for several days before cooking to ensure even roasting and food safety.
How do I know when the turkey is cooked through?
The best way is to use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the breast and the stuffing to guarantee it’s safely cooked and juicy.
Can I make the cranberry sauce from scratch?
Definitely! Homemade cranberry sauce made with fresh cranberries, sugar, and a bit of orange zest adds wonderful freshness, though store-bought works just fine for convenience.
What’s the secret to perfect mashed potatoes?
Use starchy potatoes like Russets, drain all the water before mashing, then add warm butter and milk gradually for a silky, creamy texture without lumps.
Is it okay to prepare some elements the day before?
Yes, you can prep the stuffing, cranberry sauce, and even bake the pumpkin pie ahead of time to ease your cooking schedule and enjoy a more relaxed holiday day.
Final Thoughts
This Thanksgiving Roast Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie Recipe is more than just a meal — it’s a heartfelt way to bring everyone together around the table. Give it a try this season, and let these timeless flavors and easy steps help you create joyful, lasting memories with your loved ones.
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Thanksgiving Roast Turkey with Stuffing, Mashed Potatoes, Green Beans, Gravy, Cranberry Sauce, and Pumpkin Pie Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 8 servings
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Description
Celebrate Thanksgiving with a classic and comforting feast featuring a perfectly roasted turkey, savory stuffing, steamed green beans, creamy mashed potatoes with rich gravy, tangy cranberry sauce, and a traditional pumpkin pie for dessert. This recipe guides you through preparing a memorable holiday meal that serves 8 people.
Ingredients
Turkey
- 1 whole turkey (12–15 lbs)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Additional seasonings (e.g., thyme, rosemary), optional
- 2 cups stuffing
Vegetables
- 1 lb green beans, trimmed
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (about 3–4 lbs potatoes)
- Butter (2-3 tbsp for mashed potatoes)
- Milk (1/2 cup for mashed potatoes)
Condiments and Sides
- 2 cups gravy
- 1 can cranberry sauce
Dessert
- 1 whole pumpkin pie (about 9 inches in diameter)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 325°F (165°C) to ensure it reaches the right temperature for roasting the turkey evenly and safely.
- Prepare the Turkey: Rinse the turkey if desired and pat dry. Season the turkey inside and out with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs like thyme or rosemary. Stuff the turkey cavity with 2 cups of prepared stuffing, making sure not to overfill.
- Roast the Turkey: Place the prepared turkey on a roasting rack in a roasting pan. Roast in the preheated oven for 3 to 4 hours, basting occasionally if desired, until the turkey’s internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is golden brown.
- Steam the Green Beans: While the turkey roasts, steam the trimmed green beans over boiling water for about 5-7 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and season lightly with salt or butter.
- Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil peeled potatoes until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and mash with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat the Gravy: Warm 2 cups of gravy in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot and ready to serve.
- Serve Cranberry Sauce: Open the can and serve the cranberry sauce chilled or at room temperature as a tangy complement to the turkey.
- Slice and Serve Pumpkin Pie: Cut the pumpkin pie into slices and serve as a traditional festive dessert to complete the meal.
Notes
- Ensure the stuffing’s internal temperature reaches safe levels to avoid any food safety risks.
- Use a meat thermometer for perfectly cooked turkey.
- Let the turkey rest for 20-30 minutes before carving to retain juices.
- You can prepare some components like cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie ahead of time.
- Adjust seasoning in mashed potatoes and green beans according to taste.
