21 Grandma’s Thanksgiving Recipes I’ll Never Stop Making, No Matter What’s Trending

Trends come and go, but Grandma’s Thanksgiving recipes are forever. They’re the dishes that remind me what the holiday is really about, comfort, connection, and flavors that never disappoint. No fancy twists or complicated steps here, just timeless recipes that make the whole day feel warm, familiar, and worth every bite.

Cranberry Brie Bites

Whenever I make cranberry brie bites, I can almost see Grandma smiling because she loved recipes that felt fancy without the fuss. The combo of buttery pastry, creamy brie, and tart cranberry is pure perfection for the holidays. They look impressive, taste incredible, and always disappear faster than I expect.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Brie Bites

Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Spinach and artichoke dip was always part of Grandma’s holiday spread, and now it’s a must-have at mine too. The slow cooker makes it so easy, you just toss everything in and let the magic happen while you get everything else ready. Warm, creamy, and perfectly cheesy, it’s a nostalgic little appetizer that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Puff Pastry Apple Pie Pockets

Apple pie was Grandma’s pride and joy, but when time’s tight, I make her puff pastry apple pie pockets instead. The flaky pastry and cinnamon-spiced apples capture all the cozy flavors she loved but without the long bake time. They’re a modern twist on a classic that still carries every bit of that old-fashioned warmth.
Get the Recipe: Puff Pastry Apple Pie Pockets

Cranberry Chicken Salad

Grandma had a knack for turning leftovers into something special, and her cranberry chicken salad was one of her best tricks. The mix of juicy chicken, tart cranberries, and crunchy pecans, all tossed in a creamy dressing, is the perfect blend of flavors and textures. It’s fast, comforting, and always reminds me of post-Thanksgiving lunches at her kitchen counter.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Chicken Salad

Parmesan Roasted Green Beans

I learned from Grandma that even frozen veggies can feel holiday-worthy with the right touch, and Parmesan-roasted green beans show it. A quick roast and a sprinkle of cheese turn them into a golden, crispy side that feels anything but basic. It’s a simple, timeless dish that fits right in on any Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Roasted Green Beans

Chocolate Fudge Cake

My grandma never needed fancy ingredients to make dessert magic happen, and her chocolate fudge cake proves it every single time. The rich, velvety layers are made from simple pantry staples yet taste like something you’d find at a bakery. It’s a cake that takes you right back to childhood, one bite of deep chocolatey goodness at a time.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Fudge Cake

Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Garlic mashed potatoes were one of Grandma’s secret weapons for winning over everyone at the table. They’re buttery, creamy, and perfectly garlicky, comfort in every bite. Even with all the trendy side dishes out there, nothing beats the simple joy of scooping a big spoonful of those potatoes onto your plate.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

No Thanksgiving at Grandma’s house was complete without her pot roast slowly cooking all day, filling the house with the best smell imaginable. The tender beef and rich gravy made every plate feel like home. Now I make it in the slow cooker, carrying on her tradition with all the same flavor and heart she poured into it.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

3 Ingredient Fudge

My grandma could turn the simplest things into something amazing, and her 3-ingredient fudge is a perfect example. It’s rich, smooth, and melt-in-your-mouth delicious, made with nothing more than chocolate, condensed milk, and butter. Every bite feels like a little throwback to the holidays at her kitchen table.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Fudge

Honey Glazed Carrots

Honey-glazed carrots were Grandma’s way of making vegetables irresistible, and I still use her trick today. The sweet glaze gives the tender carrots a beautiful shine and just the right touch of flavor. It’s the easiest way to add color and warmth to any meal, especially during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Carrots

Bruschetta Al Pomodoro

Grandma always said that good food doesn’t need to be complicated, and her bruschetta al pomodoro proves it every time. Juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and crusty bread come together in a simple but unforgettable bite that feels like sunshine on a plate. It’s a fresh, no-fuss appetizer that brings back memories of her kitchen filled with laughter and the smell of toasted bread.
Get the Recipe: Bruschetta Al Pomodoro

Holiday Ham

No holiday felt complete without Grandma’s glazed ham taking center stage on the table. The sweet pineapple rings and caramelized brown sugar glaze turned a simple ham into something unforgettable. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a celebration all by itself, no matter how many modern dishes surround it.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Ham

Bread Machine Pumpkin Bread

Pumpkin bread was Grandma’s way of making the house feel like fall, no matter the season. I’ve taken her recipe and let my bread machine do the work, but the smell and flavor are pure nostalgia. Soft, sweet, and full of cozy spice, it’s a simple reminder that tradition can be deliciously effortless.
Get the Recipe: Bread Machine Pumpkin Bread

Pineapple Cheese Ball

Every holiday, Grandma’s pineapple cheese ball was the first thing to disappear from the table, and for good reason. The mix of creamy cheese, sweet pineapple, and crunchy pecans creates a perfect balance of flavors that feels festive and nostalgic all at once. It’s an old-school appetizer that always gets people talking, no matter how many trendy dips come and go.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Cheese Ball

Lobster

My grandma had a way of turning even the simplest seafood dinner into something unforgettable, and her approach to cooking lobster was pure magic. She taught me that with a little care, patience, and a few tried-and-true tricks, you can bring out the natural sweetness of the meat without overcomplicating things. Every time I crack open a perfectly cooked lobster tail, it feels like honoring her legacy of keeping meals special, comforting, and full of heart.
Get the Recipe: Lobster

Poached Pears

When Grandma wanted to impress without fuss, she made poached pears that looked elegant but came together effortlessly. The pears simmer gently in a mix of red wine, honey, and warm spices, filling the kitchen with the coziest aroma. It’s a timeless dessert that feels fancy but still carries all the warmth of a home-cooked treat.
Get the Recipe: Poached Pears

Parmesan Potatoes

Parmesan potatoes were Grandma’s secret weapon when she needed an easy side that wowed everyone. The golden, cheesy crust and buttery soft centers make them impossible to stop eating. They’re the ultimate reminder that comfort food made with love never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Parmesan Potatoes

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms were one of Grandma’s classic appetizers that never failed to please a crowd. The rich, cheesy filling and juicy mushrooms create a melt-in-your-mouth combo that feels comforting and nostalgic. Even after trying countless party bites over the years, I still come back to her version, it’s simply unbeatable.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Salmon Quiche

Grandma believed brunch should feel special without being fussy, and her salmon quiche made that happen every time. With its flaky crust, creamy eggs, and tender salmon, it was her go-to dish for holidays and Sunday mornings alike. It’s elegant, easy, and the kind of recipe that makes you feel connected to family with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Salmon Quiche

Roasted Turkey

Grandma’s roasted turkey will always be the star of my Thanksgiving table, no matter what new trends pop up. Her secret was keeping things simple, just butter, garlic, fresh herbs, and patience. Every year when I pull that golden bird from the oven, it feels like carrying on her tradition in the most delicious way possible.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey

Buttermilk Drop Biscuits

Buttermilk drop biscuits were Grandma’s answer to any meal that needed a little extra love. No kneading, no rolling, just quick, golden biscuits that tasted like home. They’re warm, buttery, and one of those small comforts that always make the table feel complete.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Drop Biscuits