5 Perfect Thanksgiving Recipes by Bon Appetit

Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished holidays in the United States, where family and friends come together to celebrate the spirit of gratitude with a feast that warms both the heart and the stomach. This year, Bon Appétit has curated an exclusive selection of Thanksgiving recipes that promise to make your dinner table the talk of the town. From classic comfort foods to innovative takes on traditional dishes, we've got you covered for a memorable Thanksgiving spread.

Roasted Turkey with Herb Butter

Let's start with the star of the show – the turkey. This recipe promises a succulent, flavor-packed bird that will have your guests salivating from the moment they smell it:

• 1 Whole Turkey: Approximately 12-14 lbs, thawed if frozen.
• Herb Butter: Made from 1 cup of butter, a handful of fresh herbs (parsley, rosemary, thyme), garlic, and lemon zest.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a bit of paprika for color.

Here's how you can prepare this delectable turkey:

1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (165°C). Remove turkey neck and giblets from the cavity. Rinse the turkey and pat dry.
2. In a small bowl, mix softened butter with chopped herbs, garlic, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to make the herb butter.
3. Carefully lift the skin from the turkey breast, legs, and thighs, without tearing, to form pockets for the butter.
4. Spread the herb butter underneath the skin, massaging it gently to spread evenly. Season the outside of the turkey with salt and pepper.
5. Stuff the cavity with lemon halves, onion, and more herbs if desired. Truss the turkey or tie the legs together with kitchen twine.
6. Roast the turkey on a roasting rack set inside a roasting pan. Cook for about 13-15 minutes per pound or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
7. Let the turkey rest for at least 30 minutes before carving.

🍗 Note: Using an herb butter not only adds immense flavor but also keeps the meat moist and tender.

Pumpkin Risotto with Sage and Parmesan

Moving away from the classic stuffing, this dish brings a sophisticated twist to your Thanksgiving sides:

• Arborio Rice: 1 ½ cups
• Pumpkin Puree: 1 cup
• Vegetable Broth: 4-5 cups, kept warm
• Butter: 2 tbsp
• Olive Oil: 1 tbsp
• Onion: 1, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Sage: 6-8 leaves
• Parmesan Cheese: Grated for serving
• Salt and Pepper: To taste

Follow these steps to create a creamy pumpkin risotto:

1. In a large saucepan, melt butter with olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, then add the Arborio rice, stirring to coat the grains with butter and oil.
3. Stir in the pumpkin puree until well distributed. Begin adding warm vegetable broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously and allowing the rice to absorb the broth before adding more.
4. Continue this process, cooking the risotto for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is al dente.
5. Meanwhile, in a small pan, fry sage leaves in a little butter until crisp.
6. Once the risotto is ready, stir in most of the Parmesan, reserving some for garnish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve the risotto hot, topped with crispy sage leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan.

🎃 Note: Make sure to use pure pumpkin puree, not pie filling, to avoid excess sugar in your risotto.

Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

If you're looking to convert Brussels sprouts skeptics, this recipe might just do the trick:

• Brussels Sprouts: 1 lb, trimmed and halved
• Olive Oil: 2 tbsp
• Salt: To taste
• Black Pepper: Freshly ground, to taste
• Balsamic Vinegar: 1/2 cup
• Honey: 1 tbsp

Here’s how to prepare these flavorful sprouts:

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl, ensuring they are well coated.
2. Spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast them for 20-25 minutes until they are tender and the edges are caramelized.
3. While the sprouts are roasting, make the glaze: In a small saucepan, bring balsamic vinegar to a simmer and cook until it reduces by half. Add honey and stir until combined.
4. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the roasted Brussels sprouts just before serving, mixing gently to coat.

🌿 Note: Roasting Brussels sprouts brings out their natural sweetness, making them irresistible even to non-fans.

As Thanksgiving approaches, having a plan for your meal can make the holiday much more enjoyable. The Bon Appétit recipes we've explored offer both traditional flavors and innovative twists, ensuring your Thanksgiving dinner is both memorable and delicious. Whether it's the herb-infused turkey, the creamy pumpkin risotto, or the delightful Brussels sprouts, each dish is crafted to elevate your Thanksgiving experience. Remember, the key to a successful holiday feast is not just the food but the love and joy shared with family and friends. Here's to a Thanksgiving filled with gratitude, good company, and great food!

How far in advance can I prepare the pumpkin risotto?

+

You can prepare the pumpkin risotto up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently, adding a bit of broth or water to loosen the texture before serving.

Can I make the herb butter turkey ahead of time?

+

Yes, you can prepare the herb butter up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator. You can also season and stuff the turkey the day before and refrigerate it until you’re ready to roast.

Is there a vegetarian substitute for turkey?

+

Consider making a stuffed squash or a roast vegetable Wellington. These options provide a hearty and flavorful centerpiece that can cater to vegetarian guests while still embracing the Thanksgiving spirit.