Southern Thanksgiving Menu: 7 Dishes to Heartwarming Bliss

Name: Southern Thanksgiving Menu: 7 Dishes to Heartwarming Bliss
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 4 h
Total time: 4 h 30 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: Turkey – 1 whole (12-14 lbs); Butter – 1 cup; Salt – 2 tablespoons; Pepper – 1 tablespoon; Garlic powder – 1 tablespoon; Onion powder – 1 tablespoon; Fresh rosemary – 2 sprigs; Green beans – 2 lbs; Almonds – 1 cup, sliced; Cranberries – 2 cups, fresh; Brown sugar – 1 cup; Sweet potatoes – 4 large; Marshmallows – 2 cups; Stuffing mix – 1 package; Broth – 4 cups; Pumpkin pie – 1 whole; Whipped cream – 1 cup

November 14, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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There’s something absolutely magical about gathering around the table for a Southern Thanksgiving. It’s not just about the food; it’s about family, love, and tradition. Growing up, my holidays were filled with the mouthwatering aroma of roasted turkey, sweet potatoes topped with gooey marshmallows, and that vibrant cranberry sauce bursting with flavor. Each dish tells a story, reminiscent of cherished moments shared with loved ones. This Southern Thanksgiving menu brings together all those classic flavors that warm the heart and soul. So grab your apron and let’s dive into this delicious feast that’s sure to be the highlight of your holiday celebration!

Ingredients for a Southern Thanksgiving Menu

Here’s what you’ll need to create a truly unforgettable Southern Thanksgiving feast:

Turkey: A whole turkey, around 12-14 lbs, is the star of the show. Make sure it’s thawed completely if it was frozen!
Butter: You’ll need 1 cup of unsalted butter for that rich flavor and deliciously crispy skin.
Salt & Pepper: 2 tablespoons of salt and 1 tablespoon of pepper will enhance all the natural flavors.
Garlic & Onion Powder: Just 1 tablespoon each will add a lovely depth to the turkey.
Fresh Rosemary: A couple of sprigs will infuse your turkey with that fragrant, herbal note.
Green Beans: 2 lbs of fresh green beans will brighten up your plate!
Almonds: Use 1 cup of sliced almonds for a delightful crunch with the green beans.
Cranberries: 2 cups of fresh cranberries are essential for a tangy sauce.
Brown Sugar: 1 cup will sweeten the cranberry sauce beautifully.
Sweet Potatoes: You’ll need 4 large ones, which will be mashed and topped with marshmallows!
Marshmallows: 2 cups of mini marshmallows for that classic sweet topping.
Stuffing Mix: Grab a package of your favorite stuffing mix to round out the meal.
Broth: 4 cups of broth to prepare the stuffing and add richness to the turkey.
Pumpkin Pie: A whole pumpkin pie is a must for dessert, and don’t forget the whipped cream!
Whipped Cream: 1 cup to serve on top of that pie, because what’s Thanksgiving without it?

How to Prepare the Southern Thanksgiving Menu

Now that we’ve gathered all our ingredients, it’s time to bring this Southern Thanksgiving menu to life! I promise, the process is just as rewarding as the end result. First, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) so it’s nice and hot for that turkey. While that’s warming up, let’s get the turkey ready! Rub it with butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and tuck in those fresh rosemary sprigs. Pop it in the oven and let it roast for about 3 hours, or until the internal temperature hits 165°F (75°C). Remember, let that turkey rest for about 20 minutes before carving—trust me, it makes a difference!

Preparing the Turkey

To prepare your turkey, start by thawing it completely if it was frozen. Once ready, pat it dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. Rub the outside generously with butter and sprinkle on the salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Don’t forget to tuck those fresh rosemary sprigs inside for a burst of flavor. Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 3 hours, checking the internal temperature with a meat thermometer. When it reaches 165°F (75°C), it’s done! Let it rest before carving, so those juices stay locked in.

Cooking the Side Dishes

While the turkey is roasting, let’s tackle those side dishes! Start by blanching the green beans in boiling water for about 5 minutes, then drain and sauté them with sliced almonds until they’re tender and slightly golden. For the sweet potatoes, boil them until soft, then mash and top with mini marshmallows before putting them under the broiler for a few minutes until golden brown. Prepare the stuffing by following the package instructions, using your broth for extra flavor. Lastly, make the cranberry sauce by simmering fresh cranberries with brown sugar until they burst—so delicious!

Serving the Pumpkin Pie

Once your meal is complete, it’s time for dessert! Serve your pumpkin pie with a generous dollop of whipped cream on top. It’s the perfect sweet ending to a hearty Thanksgiving feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Classic Southern flavors that evoke nostalgia and warmth.
Perfect for gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table.
Rich and comforting dishes that satisfy every palate.
Simple, yet impressive enough to wow your family and friends.
Each recipe is tried and true, guaranteeing delicious results!

Tips for Success

To make your Southern Thanksgiving menu shine, here are some of my favorite tips! First, always taste your dishes as you go—seasoning can vary based on personal preference, so adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. When roasting the turkey, don’t rush; let it cook slowly for that juicy perfection. If you’re short on time, you can prepare the cranberry sauce a day ahead—it’s even better after a night in the fridge! And when it comes to the sweet potatoes, a quick broil at the end gives those marshmallows a beautiful golden color. Trust me, these little details make all the difference!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional values for each serving of this Southern Thanksgiving menu:

Calories: 800
Fat: 40g
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 85g
Sugar: 30g
Sodium: 1200mg
Fiber: 10g

Keep in mind, these values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes! Enjoy your feast with a little peace of mind!

FAQ Section

Can I prepare any dishes in advance? Absolutely! You can make the cranberry sauce a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Also, prep your sweet potatoes and stuffing the night before to save time on Thanksgiving Day.

What can I do if my turkey is still frozen? If you find yourself in a last-minute jam, submerge your frozen turkey in cold water (changing it every 30 minutes) until thawed. It usually takes about 30 minutes per pound.

Is there a way to make this menu gluten-free? Yes! Just use gluten-free stuffing mix and double-check your broth to ensure it’s gluten-free as well. Easy peasy!

How can I keep my turkey moist? Letting the turkey rest for 20 minutes after roasting will help keep those juices in. You can also baste it occasionally during cooking for added moisture.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

After your Southern Thanksgiving feast, you’ll likely have some delicious leftovers to savor! To store them, let everything cool down to room temperature first. Then, place the turkey, sides, and pie in airtight containers and refrigerate. Most of these dishes will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe bags—just make sure to label them with the date!

When it’s time to enjoy those leftovers, reheat the turkey in the oven at 325°F (165°C) until heated through. The sides can be warmed up on the stovetop or in the microwave. Just remember, don’t overheat the sweet potatoes with marshmallows, or you’ll lose that lovely texture!

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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.