Cook's Illustrated

Menu Planner

We've taken the worry away from menu planning. Whether you're cooking for a small or large party, want a classic or nontraditional meal, or need fresh turkey ideas for the day after, we have you covered with foolproof recipes guaranteed to please.

Classic Thanksgiving Menu

Classic Thanksgiving Menu

  • Roasted Brined Turkey
  • Warm-Spiced Pecans with Rum Glaze
  • Best Turkey Gravy
  • Cranberry-Apple-Orange Relish
  • Bread Stuffing with Bacon and Apples for a Crowd
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Thanksgiving for a Crowd

Thanksgiving for a Crowd

  • Roast Salted Turkey For a Crowd
  • Top Loin Roast
  • Classic Deviled Eggs
  • Silky Butternut Squash Soup
  • Giblet Pan Gravy for a Crowd
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Thanksgiving for a Small Gathering

Thanksgiving for a Small Gathering

  • Easy Roast Turkey Breast
  • Bread Stuffing with Leeks, Bacon, and Apple
  • Cranberry Sauce with Pears and Fresh Ginger
  • Sautéed Green Beans with Garlic and Herbs
  • Make-Ahead Mashed Potato Casserole
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Lighter Menu

Lighter Menu

  • Easy Roast Turkey Breast with Lemon and Thyme
  • Cream of Roasted Carrot Soup
  • Simple Cranberry Sauce
  • Lighter Scalloped Potatoes
  • Lighter Skillet Green Bean Casserole
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Make Ahead Menu

Make Ahead Menu

  • Roasted Brined Turkey
  • Make-Ahead Garlic-Potato Soup
  • All-Purpose Gravy
  • Arugula Salad with Pears, Almonds, Goat Cheese, and Dried Apricots
  • Classic Green Bean Casserole
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A Southern Thanksgiving

A Southern Thanksgiving

  • Roast Crisped-Skin Turkey
  • Quick Spiced Pecans
  • Giblet Pan Gravy for a Crowd
  • Cornbread and Sausage Stuffing
  • Candied Sweet Potato Casserole
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Thanksgiving for Beginners

Thanksgiving for Beginners

  • Easy Roast Turkey Breast with Lemon and Thyme
  • All-Purpose Gravy
  • Simple Applesauce
  • Acorn Squash with Brown Sugar
  • Simple Cranberry Sauce
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Tired of Turkey Menu

Tired of Turkey Menu

  • Roast Pork Loin with Apricot, Cherry, and Pecan Stuffing
  • Apple-Cranberry Salad with Creamy Lemon Vinaigrette
  • Herb Biscuits
  • Pan-Roasted Asparagus with Toasted Garlic and Parmesan
  • Fluffy Mashed Potatoes
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Holidays Leftover Menu

Holidays Leftover Menu

  • Turkey Noodle Soup
  • Leafy Green Salad
  • Best American Dinner Rolls
  • Thin, Crispy Chocolate Chip Cookies
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