Small Thanksgiving Dinner for 6: 5 Heartwarming Recipes

Name: Small Thanksgiving Dinner for 6: 5 Heartwarming Recipes
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 turkey breast (5-6 lbs); 2 cups stuffing mix; 1 cup chicken broth; 1/2 cup butter; 4 cups green beans; 1 cup cranberry sauce; 2 cups mashed potatoes; 1/2 cup milk; 1/4 cup sour cream; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper to taste

November 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Ah, the joy of hosting a small Thanksgiving dinner for 6! There’s something so intimate and heartwarming about gathering with loved ones around a cozy table, sharing delicious food and heartfelt stories. This recipe is all about simplicity and delight, ensuring you can focus more on your guests and less on the stress of cooking. Imagine the aroma of a perfectly roasted turkey filling your home, the vibrant green beans on the side, and creamy mashed potatoes waiting to be savored. Trust me, this dinner not only satisfies but also creates memories that linger long after the last bite. Let’s dive into the details of making this wonderful meal!

Ingredients List

1 turkey breast (5-6 lbs) – Look for a fresh, high-quality turkey breast to ensure moist and flavorful meat.
2 cups stuffing mix – Use your favorite stuffing mix; I love the herb blend for that classic Thanksgiving taste!
1 cup chicken broth – This adds moisture and flavor to the stuffing. Homemade is great, but store-bought works just fine.
1/2 cup butter – Melted butter brings richness to the stuffing and helps it bind beautifully.
4 cups green beans – Fresh or frozen, they provide a lovely pop of color and crunch on the plate.
1 cup cranberry sauce – A must-have for that sweet and tart contrast to the savory turkey.
2 cups mashed potatoes – Creamy and comforting, they pair perfectly with the turkey and gravy.
1/2 cup milk – For that perfect creamy texture in your mashed potatoes.
1/4 cup sour cream – Adds a delightful tang and creaminess to your potatoes.
1 teaspoon garlic powder – A little boost of flavor that makes a big difference in your mashed potatoes.
Salt and pepper to taste – Always taste as you go! Adjust the seasoning to make everything just right.

How to Prepare Instructions

First things first, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This is key for getting that turkey perfectly roasted!
While that’s warming up, let’s prepare the stuffing. In a medium bowl, combine the 2 cups of stuffing mix with 1 cup of chicken broth and 1/2 cup of melted butter. Mix until everything is well combined—this is where the magic starts!
Now grab your turkey breast and place it in a roasting pan. Don’t forget to season it generously with salt and pepper. It’s a simple step, but it makes a world of difference!
Stuff that turkey breast with your delicious stuffing mixture. You want to fill it, but don’t overdo it—too much stuffing can make it hard to cook evenly.
Pop the turkey in the oven and roast for about 1.5 to 2 hours. Make sure to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.
While the turkey is roasting, steam the 4 cups of green beans until they’re tender but still vibrant green—about 5-7 minutes should do it!
For the mashed potatoes, boil them until fork-tender, then mash them with 1/2 cup of milk, 1/4 cup of sour cream, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once the turkey is done, let it rest for about 15 minutes before slicing. This helps keep all those juicy flavors in!
Serve your beautifully roasted turkey alongside stuffing, green beans, cranberry sauce, and those creamy mashed potatoes. Enjoy every moment of this delightful meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just a bit of chopping and mixing, you can have everything ready in no time, making it perfect for busy hosts.
Easy Cooking: Roasting a turkey breast is straightforward, and the oven does most of the work for you while you focus on your guests.
Flavorful Outcomes: The combination of stuffing, roasted turkey, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a comforting and delicious meal that everyone will love.
Perfect for Small Gatherings: This recipe is tailored for a cozy dinner with just six people, ensuring every plate is filled with warmth and joy.
Minimal Cleanup: With fewer dishes to prepare and cook, you’ll spend less time cleaning and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones.
Customizable: Feel free to add your twist with different sides or seasonings, making it a versatile choice for any Thanksgiving table.

Tips for Success

To make your small Thanksgiving dinner for 6 a standout success, keep these handy tips in mind!

Prep Ahead: If you’re short on time, consider preparing the stuffing the day before. Just mix the ingredients and refrigerate it until you’re ready to stuff the turkey. This not only saves time but allows the flavors to meld wonderfully.
Check the Turkey: Always use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the turkey breast. Aim for 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked. This can help prevent overcooking and drying out the meat!
Season Generously: Don’t be shy with salt and pepper! Season both the turkey and the stuffing well to enhance the flavors. You can also add herbs like rosemary or thyme for an extra aromatic touch.
Keep it Covered: If you notice the turkey browning too quickly, loosely tent it with aluminum foil to prevent burning while it finishes cooking.
Resting is Key: Let the turkey rest for at least 15 minutes after roasting. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each slice is juicy and tender.
Serve Hot: When serving, make sure everything is hot and ready to go. You can keep the mashed potatoes warm by covering them or placing them in a warmed dish until it’s time to serve.

With these little pointers, you’ll be on your way to hosting a memorable Thanksgiving dinner that everyone will rave about!

Nutritional Information

Before we dive into the deliciousness of this small Thanksgiving dinner for 6, I want to give you a heads-up about the nutritional information. Keep in mind that these values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so consider this as an estimate rather than precise numbers.

Calories: Approximately 600 per serving
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 60g
Fiber: 5g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 35g
Cholesterol: 90mg
Sodium: 800mg

So, as you can see, this meal is both hearty and comforting while still keeping things balanced. Enjoy every bite, knowing you’re serving up something delicious and satisfying!

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your small Thanksgiving dinner for 6, consider adding a few complementary dishes and beverages that will truly enhance the overall experience. Here are some of my favorites!

Fresh Salad: A crisp garden salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing touch. I love tossing in some toasted nuts or dried cranberries for that extra burst of flavor!
Roasted Vegetables: Try a medley of seasonal roasted veggies like carrots, Brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes. The caramelization brings out their natural sweetness and makes for a beautiful presentation.
Homemade Gravy: Don’t forget about a rich turkey gravy! It’s perfect for drizzling over your mashed potatoes and turkey, adding that extra layer of comfort to your meal.
Wine Pairing: A light-bodied red wine, like Pinot Noir or a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc, pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the turkey and stuffing. It adds a sophisticated touch to your dinner!
Classic Pumpkin Pie: For dessert, a slice of pumpkin pie topped with whipped cream is an absolute must! It’s a sweet way to finish off a lovely meal and brings that classic Thanksgiving vibe.

These suggestions not only complement the main dish but also create a well-rounded and festive dining experience. Enjoy your celebration, and remember, it’s all about the company and the joy of sharing a meal together!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After you’ve enjoyed your delightful small Thanksgiving dinner for 6, you might find yourself with some delicious leftovers. Don’t worry; I’ve got you covered on how to store and reheat them so you can savor the flavors for days to come!

First, let’s talk about storage. Allow the turkey, stuffing, and sides to cool down to room temperature before placing them in airtight containers. This helps keep everything fresh and prevents any moisture from getting trapped inside. I like to separate the components if I can—this way, you can enjoy each dish just the way it was meant to be without mingling the flavors too much. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.

If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing! Turkey and stuffing freeze wonderfully. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in freezer-safe bags or containers, squeezing out as much air as possible. They can last in the freezer for about 2-3 months. Just remember to label your containers with the date so you know when to use them!

Now, when it comes to reheating, I recommend using the oven for the best results, especially for the turkey. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C), place the turkey in a baking dish, and cover it loosely with foil to keep it moist. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).

For the stuffing and mashed potatoes, you can reheat them in the microwave or the oven. If using the microwave, place them in a microwavable dish, cover, and heat for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating. In the oven, cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.

And there you have it! Follow these simple storage and reheating tips, and you’ll be able to enjoy your Thanksgiving feast all over again without losing any of that home-cooked goodness!

FAQ Section

Can I use chicken instead of turkey for this small Thanksgiving dinner for 6?
Absolutely! If turkey isn’t your thing, a roasted chicken works just as well. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly based on the size of the chicken you’re using—generally, it takes about 20 minutes per pound at 350°F (175°C).

What can I do if I can’t find stuffing mix?
No problem! You can easily make your own stuffing with cubed bread, sautéed onions, celery, herbs, and broth. Just toast the bread cubes, mix them with the sautéed veggies and seasoning, and moisten with broth. It’ll be just as delicious!

How long can I store leftovers from my small Thanksgiving dinner for 6?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure they’re in airtight containers to keep them fresh. If you want to enjoy them longer, consider freezing them for up to 2-3 months!

Can I prepare any of the dishes ahead of time?
Yes! You can definitely prep the stuffing a day in advance and keep it in the fridge. You can also make your mashed potatoes ahead of time, then just reheat them before serving. It helps reduce stress on the actual day!

What’s the best way to reheat the turkey without drying it out?
To reheat turkey, place it in a baking dish, cover it loosely with foil, and heat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-30 minutes until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). This keeps it moist and juicy!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.