Thanksgiving Mains Everyone Actually Wants to Eat

Thanksgiving is all about coming together over food that feels like home. Whether you’re hosting your first dinner or adding new favorites to the table, the main course is what brings everyone back for seconds. It’s not just about tradition, it’s about making something everyone genuinely looks forward to.

From perfectly roasted turkey to flavorful alternatives, there’s something for every kind of Thanksgiving table. The right main dish sets the tone for the feast, balancing comfort with a bit of excitement. It’s where simple ingredients turn into something truly memorable.

This roundup highlights dishes that are hearty, easy to love, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters. These recipes bring warmth and familiarity while keeping things fresh enough to surprise your guests in the best way possible.

Air Fryer Turkey Legs

These turkey legs turn out beautifully browned on the outside while staying juicy inside. The air fryer gives them that perfect crispy skin without the need for deep frying. A light seasoning mix brings out the natural flavor, and they’re ready in less time than you’d expect.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Legs

Cajun Turkey Breast

This recipe brings bold, smoky seasoning that adds warmth and spice to tender turkey breast. The Cajun blend forms a flavorful crust that seals in moisture. It’s an easy way to add excitement to a weeknight dinner or holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Cajun Turkey Breast

Easy Oven Roasted Chicken

A simple roast chicken that never disappoints, crispy skin, tender meat, and a comforting aroma. With minimal prep and classic herbs, it’s a go-to meal that feels both homely and hearty. Serve it with vegetables for a complete dinner.
Get the Recipe: Easy Oven Roasted Chicken

Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast

The slow cooker does all the work, turning turkey breast into a tender, juicy centerpiece. Cooked low and slow, the flavors develop beautifully while you go about your day. It’s an effortless meal that still feels special.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Boneless Turkey Breast

Maple-Dijon Instant Pot Pot Roast with Potatoes

This pot roast combines the richness of beef with a sweet-savory maple Dijon glaze. The Instant Pot ensures the meat turns out fork-tender in a fraction of the usual time. Every bite is coated in a glossy sauce that pairs perfectly with potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Maple-Dijon Instant Pot Pot Roast with Potatoes

Buttermilk Brined Turkey

Soaking the turkey in buttermilk makes it exceptionally juicy and flavorful. The brine adds a gentle tang that complements the roasted skin beautifully. It’s a simple step that takes your turkey from good to unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Buttermilk Brined Turkey

Dutch Oven Chicken Breast and Vegetables

This all-in-one meal cooks tender chicken alongside perfectly roasted vegetables. The Dutch oven locks in moisture, creating a cozy, rustic dish full of flavor. It’s hearty, wholesome, and ideal for a Sunday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Dutch Oven Chicken Breast and Vegetables

Air Fryer Whole Chicken

The air fryer works magic here, crisp, golden skin outside and succulent meat within. It’s a faster, cleaner way to roast a whole chicken without heating up the kitchen. Perfect for busy nights when you still want a homemade meal.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whole Chicken

Air Fryer Cornish Hens

These petite hens turn out golden and juicy with minimal effort. The air fryer gives them beautiful, even browning and a hint of crispness. They’re elegant enough for a dinner party yet easy enough for a weekday treat.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Cornish Hens

Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham

Sweet maple and smoky bourbon come together in a glossy glaze that coats every slice. The flavor balance of caramelized sugar and savory ham is pure comfort. It’s a holiday favorite that fills the room with an irresistible aroma.
Get the Recipe: Bourbon Maple Glazed Ham

Cranberry Cherry Glazed Turkey

This turkey is brushed with a tangy glaze made from cranberries and cherries for a touch of sweetness. The fruit creates a lovely sheen and depth of flavor that’s festive and fresh. Each bite offers a nice balance of savory and tart.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cherry Glazed Turkey

Air Fryer Turkey Breast

A quick, mess-free way to cook tender turkey with perfectly crisped skin. The air fryer keeps it juicy inside while achieving that pleasing crunch outside. Great for smaller gatherings or easy weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Turkey Breast

Instant Pot Duck Confit

With the Instant Pot, you can enjoy melt-in-your-mouth duck confit in a fraction of the time. The meat turns buttery soft while retaining all its rich flavor. It’s an impressive dish that feels restaurant-worthy with minimal effort.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Duck Confit

Apple Cider Chicken Thighs

Chicken thighs simmered in apple cider create a balance of sweet and savory. The cider reduces to a glossy sauce that coats each piece beautifully. It’s a cozy meal that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cider Chicken Thighs

French Onion Beef Casserole

This comforting bake layers tender beef with caramelized onions and a creamy sauce. The golden topping adds a satisfying crunch that ties everything together. It’s rich, filling, and perfect for cool evenings.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Beef Casserole

Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

A fuss-free recipe where the slow cooker blends cranberry sweetness with savory chicken. The sauce becomes thick and flavorful, coating each tender bite. It’s simple, comforting, and great for make-ahead dinners.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Cranberry Chicken

How to Cook a Prime Rib

Cooking prime rib is simpler than it seems when you know the right technique. With the right timing and seasoning, you’ll get a tender roast with a crisp crust. It’s an impressive main course for any celebration.
Get the Recipe: How to Cook a Prime Rib

Savory Stuffed Pumpkin

This dish transforms a whole pumpkin into a beautiful edible centerpiece. It’s filled with a savory blend of grains, herbs, and vegetables that complement the pumpkin’s sweetness. Perfect for autumn gatherings or a cozy dinner at home.
Get the Recipe: Savory Stuffed Pumpkin

Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast

A crunchy hazelnut crust adds texture and nutty richness to tender turkey. The coating locks in moisture while giving every bite a delicate flavor. It’s a unique twist on a classic that’s both elegant and simple to make.
Get the Recipe: Hazelnut Crusted Turkey Breast

Stuffed Turkey Breast

This turkey breast is rolled with a flavorful filling that stays moist and aromatic. The spiral cut reveals a beautiful pattern when sliced. It’s a great choice for special dinners without needing a whole bird.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Turkey Breast

Tart Cherry Chestnut Stuffed Turkey Roulade

Tart cherries and chestnuts come together in a beautiful stuffing that adds depth and sweetness. Rolled inside turkey, it creates a stunning presentation with rich flavors in every slice. It’s festive and impressive yet approachable to make.
Get the Recipe: Tart Cherry Chestnut Stuffed Turkey Roulade

Easy Roasted Chicken

A straightforward roasted chicken that turns out golden and juicy every time. The simple seasoning lets the natural flavor shine. It’s the kind of meal that never goes out of style.
Get the Recipe: Easy Roasted Chicken

Oven Roast Turkey with Stuffing

This classic combination features tender roasted turkey with savory stuffing baked inside. The flavors mingle together perfectly as it cooks. It’s traditional comfort at its best and always a hit for gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Oven Roast Turkey with Stuffing

Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast

A rich prime rib coated with garlic and herbs for a fragrant crust and juicy interior. The slow roasting process ensures perfect tenderness. It’s a crowd-pleaser that makes any meal feel special.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast

Roasted Turkey

A beautifully browned turkey with crisp skin and tender, flavorful meat. Roasting brings out its natural juices and aroma. It’s the timeless centerpiece for gatherings big or small.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey