Let’s face it…every year, everyone from the east coast to the west coast of the US and everywhere in between has the same Thanksgiving meal. There’s the turkey, the stuffing, the sweet potatoes, the cranberry sauce, the green bean casserole…you get the idea. But who says every year MUST include the same typical Thanksgiving dishes?
This year, break out of that rut and give your taste buds something new to explore. These 7 non-traditional Thanksgiving dinner ideas are sure to shake things up, and might just even earn a spot on your regular menu from here on out.
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey Breast
If your Thanksgiving table is set for a smaller crowd this year, you might not want to roast a whole bird. That’s where bacon-wrapped turkey breast comes in. Stuffing it with a creamy wild rice blend and wrapping it with bacon has all the makings of a new twist on Thanksgiving done so deliciously.
Cornbread Stuffing Muffins
Create the perfect portion for everyone with stuffing made of cornbread formed into muffins. The secret is adding apples and pancetta for a divine taste everyone will clamor for.
Sweet Corn Spoonbread
Creamy and buttery, this non-traditional twist to your Thanksgiving dinner is going to be gobbled up in seconds flat. It takes everything you love about the traditional food servings of sweet corn and cornbread and melds them together in one skillet.
Creamy Cheesy Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
No one will ever complain about eating brussels sprouts ever again with this sublime side. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it takes an often ignored veggie and puts it front and center with a creamy cheese sauce and crispy bacon.
Mashed Potato Casserole
Yes, mashed potatoes and gravy are a classic Thanksgiving dish, but you might want to make room for a mashed potato casserole instead. Melty cheese, crispy bacon, and chives come together for an easy make-ahead dish that your family will love.
Thanksgiving Cauliflower
Trying to cut down on carbs but don’t want to miss out on the gravy? Thanksgiving cauliflower, to the rescue! This delectable dish features a rosemary-sage-mushroom gravy that will have you smitten from the first bite.
Oyster Sausage Stuffing
Tired of the same old stuffing recipe? When you make it with fresh oysters and sausage, it’s a special treat that takes on the traditional and gives it a seaside spin. The distinctive flavors of land and sea really come together in a way that complements your meal elegantly. From Cooking in Bliss.
Pumpkin and Potato Gratin
Pumpkin and potato gratin is a great new Thanksgiving side dish to try. Cheesy potato casserole with a touch of pumpkin too. You’ve got to try this! Have you tried pumpkin and potato gratin before. It’s still ooey gooey and cheesy like your typical potatoes au gratin recipe but with a hint of pumpkin, perfect for the Fall season. Whether you’re making this for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just during the week it is a great twist on the traditional au gratin potatoes.
Perhaps a new Thanksgiving tradition for you will be to add one new dish to your menu every year. It’s a great way to build on existing traditions and enjoy great new tastes all in one!
About the Author
Camellia Jones is an editor at Twigs Cafe. She rounds up all the delicious food from the web for specific diets. She likes to spend the rest of her time with her children.
