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FULL HOLIDAY DINNER | Full Turkey Dinner Recipe Ideas | Simply Mamá Cooks

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Originating from early American settlers and Native American traditions, the turkey dinner has become a staple of Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States. It symbolizes gratitude and family gatherings, often featuring a feast of seasonal dishes. Today, variations abound, with many families incorporating regional flavors or alternative proteins, making it a cherished meal across diverse cultures.

Ingredients

  • whole turkey
  • butter
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • garlic
  • onion
  • fresh herbs
  • carrots
  • celery
  • potatoes
  • broth
  • stuffing
  • cranberry sauce
  • gravy
  • green beans

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. 2Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and patting it dry with paper towels.
  3. 3Rub the turkey inside and out with butter, then season generously with salt and black pepper.
  4. 4Stuff the cavity with garlic, onion, and fresh herbs.
  5. 5Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
  6. 6Surround the turkey with chopped carrots, celery, and potatoes.
  7. 7Pour broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist during roasting.
  8. 8Roast the turkey in the preheated oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), about 13-15 minutes per pound.
  9. 9Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices for even browning.
  10. 10Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
  11. 11Serve with stuffing, cranberry sauce, gravy, and green beans.

Ingredient Alternatives

whole turkey

Healthier: chicken

Cheaper: turkey breast

Chicken is lower in fat, while turkey breast is less expensive and still flavorful.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier for heart health, while margarine is often less expensive.

stuffing

Healthier: quinoa

Cheaper: bread crumbs

Quinoa is a gluten-free option, while bread crumbs are a budget-friendly alternative.

cranberry sauce

Healthier: fresh cranberries

Cheaper: jelly

Fresh cranberries provide a tart flavor, while jelly is a more affordable option.

Techniques

roastingbasting

Equipment

ovenroasting panmeat thermometercutting boardknife
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairygluten

Also Known As

Thanksgiving TurkeyRoast Turkey Dinner

Thanksgiving Dinner is a cherished American tradition celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, commemorating the harvest and blessings of the past year. Families gather to share a meal centered around turkey, which symbolizes abundance, and various side dishes that reflect regional and familial traditions. Over the years, Thanksgiving has evolved, with many incorporating diverse cuisines and modern twists on classic recipes, making it a truly inclusive celebration.

Ingredients

  • turkey
  • stuffing
  • mashed potatoes
  • gravy
  • cranberry sauce
  • green bean casserole
  • sweet potatoes
  • pumpkin pie

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. 2Prepare the turkey by seasoning it inside and out.
  3. 3Stuff the turkey with stuffing mixture.
  4. 4Place the turkey in a roasting pan, breast side up.
  5. 5Roast the turkey for about 13-15 minutes per pound until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  6. 6While the turkey roasts, prepare mashed potatoes by boiling peeled potatoes until tender.
  7. 7Drain potatoes and mash with butter and cream until smooth.
  8. 8Cook green beans in boiling water until bright green, about 5 minutes, then drain.
  9. 9Prepare gravy by simmering turkey drippings with flour and broth until thickened.
  10. 10Bake sweet potatoes until soft, then mash with butter and brown sugar.
  11. 11Serve cranberry sauce alongside turkey and stuffing.
  12. 12Slice the turkey and arrange on a platter with sides.
  13. 13Finish the meal with pumpkin pie for dessert.

Ingredient Alternatives

turkey

Healthier: chicken

Cheaper: pork

Chicken is leaner and often less expensive than turkey.

heavy cream

Healthier: Greek yogurt

Cheaper: milk + cornstarch

Greek yogurt reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil provides healthy fats and is often cheaper.

pumpkin pie

Healthier: sweet potato pie

Cheaper: store-bought pie

Sweet potato pie uses more affordable ingredients.

Techniques

roastingboilingmashingsimmering

Equipment

roasting panmixing bowlpotmashersaucepanoven
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairygluten

Also Known As

Turkey DinnerHarvest Feast

Turkey has been a staple in American cuisine, especially during Thanksgiving, symbolizing abundance and family gatherings. Traditionally, it is roasted and served with sides like stuffing and cranberry sauce, making it a centerpiece of festive meals. In modern times, variations include deep-frying and brining, with turkey being enjoyed year-round in sandwiches and salads.

Ingredients

  • whole turkey
  • butter
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • garlic
  • onion
  • fresh herbs
  • carrots
  • celery
  • chicken broth
  • flour
  • water
  • sage
  • thyme
  • rosemary
  • lemon

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat the oven to 325°F (165°C).
  2. 2Prepare the turkey by removing the giblets and patting it dry with paper towels.
  3. 3Rub softened butter all over the turkey, including under the skin.
  4. 4Season the turkey generously with salt and black pepper, inside and out.
  5. 5Stuff the cavity with garlic, onion, and fresh herbs.
  6. 6Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan.
  7. 7Arrange chopped carrots and celery around the turkey in the pan.
  8. 8Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan to keep the turkey moist.
  9. 9Roast the turkey in the preheated oven for about 13-15 minutes per pound, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
  10. 10Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with the pan juices for even browning.
  11. 11Remove the turkey from the oven and let it rest for at least 20 minutes before carving.
  12. 12Make a gravy by whisking flour into the pan drippings over medium heat, adding more broth as needed.

Ingredient Alternatives

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is lower in saturated fat and adds flavor.

whole turkey

Healthier: turkey breast

Cheaper: chicken

Turkey breast is leaner, while chicken is often more affordable.

chicken broth

Healthier: vegetable broth

Cheaper: water with seasoning

Vegetable broth can be lower in sodium and calories.

fresh herbs

Healthier: dried herbs

Cheaper: no herbs

Dried herbs are more accessible and have a longer shelf life.

Techniques

roastingbasting

Equipment

roasting panroasting rackmeat thermometerbasting brush
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairy

Also Known As

Roast TurkeyThanksgiving Turkey

In Japan, Christmas is celebrated more as a festive occasion than a religious holiday. Traditionally, families enjoy a special meal featuring fried chicken, often from KFC, and a celebratory cake, symbolizing joy and togetherness. This unique blend of Western influence and Japanese tradition has made Christmas dinner a beloved event, with modern variations including sushi and seasonal vegetables. Today, Christmas in Japan is a time for families and friends to gather, share a meal, and create lasting memories.

Ingredients

  • roast chicken
  • cake
  • fried chicken
  • salad
  • potato
  • rice
  • sushi
  • sashimi
  • seafood
  • vegetables
  • gravy
  • sauce
  • wine
  • fruit
  • chestnuts
  • miso

Instructions

  1. 1Prepare the roast chicken by seasoning it with salt and pepper.
  2. 2Roast the chicken in a preheated oven until golden and cooked through, about 1-1.5 hours.
  3. 3Bake a festive cake, traditionally a strawberry shortcake, until golden and set.
  4. 4Fry chicken pieces until crispy and golden brown, about 10-15 minutes.
  5. 5Prepare a fresh salad with seasonal vegetables and a light dressing.
  6. 6Boil potatoes until tender, then mash or serve whole with butter.
  7. 7Cook rice according to package instructions, fluffing it with a fork when done.
  8. 8Arrange sushi and sashimi on a platter for a seafood touch.
  9. 9Steam or sauté vegetables until tender but still vibrant in color.
  10. 10Prepare gravy from the roast chicken drippings, adding stock to taste.
  11. 11Serve the meal with a selection of wine or sparkling beverages.
  12. 12Finish the dinner with fruit or chestnuts as a light dessert.
  13. 13Set the table beautifully to celebrate the occasion.
  14. 14Gather family and friends to enjoy the meal together.

Ingredient Alternatives

roast chicken

Healthier: grilled chicken

Cheaper: baked chicken

Grilled chicken reduces fat while maintaining flavor.

cake

Healthier: fruit tart

Cheaper: pound cake

Fruit tart uses less sugar and adds nutrients.

fried chicken

Healthier: baked chicken

Cheaper: chicken thighs

Baked chicken is lower in calories and thighs are more affordable.

seafood

Healthier: tofu

Cheaper: canned fish

Tofu is a plant-based protein and canned fish is budget-friendly.

Techniques

roastingbakingfryingsteamingsautéing

Equipment

ovenroasting panfrying panmixing bowlcutting boardknifeserving platter
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowglutenseafoodnuts

Also Known As

Japanese Christmas DinnerChristmas Feast in Japan

Slow cooker ham is often prepared for family gatherings and holidays, providing a convenient way to serve a large meal.

Ingredients

  • 1 (5-7 lb) bone-in ham
  • 1 cup brown sugar
  • 1/2 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp ground cloves
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. 1Place the ham in the slow cooker, cut side down.
  2. 2In a bowl, mix together the brown sugar, honey, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, and black pepper.
  3. 3Pour the mixture over the ham, ensuring it is well coated.
  4. 4Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the ham is heated through and tender.
  5. 5Baste the ham with the juices every couple of hours for added flavor.
  6. 6Once done, remove the ham from the slow cooker and let it rest for 15 minutes before slicing.
  7. 7Serve the ham with the juices drizzled over the top.

Equipment

slow cookermixing bowlmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoonsknifecutting board

Ingredients

  • 4 cups turkey drippings
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp onion powder

Instructions

  1. 1In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
  2. 2Whisk in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes until it turns golden brown.
  3. 3Gradually add the turkey drippings while whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
  4. 4Pour in the chicken broth and continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
  5. 5Bring the gravy to a simmer and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
  6. 6Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder to taste.
  7. 7Remove from heat and serve hot over turkey or mashed potatoes.

Equipment

saucepanwhiskmeasuring cupsmeasuring spoons

Ingredients

  • 1 loaf of bread, cubed
  • 1 cup celery, chopped
  • 1 cup onion, chopped
  • 1/2 cup butter, melted
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried sage
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 cup parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. 1In a large bowl, combine the cubed bread, chopped celery, and chopped onion.
  2. 2In a separate bowl, mix the melted butter, vegetable broth, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  3. 3Pour the butter mixture over the bread mixture and stir until well combined.
  4. 4Add the chopped parsley and mix gently.
  5. 5Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and spread it evenly.
  6. 6Cover and cook on low for 4-6 hours, or until the dressing is heated through and the bread is soft.
  7. 7Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
  8. 8Once done, serve warm as a side dish.

Equipment

slow cookermixing bowlspatula

Broccoli Cheese Rice Casserole is a comforting staple in American households, often served as a side dish or main course. It combines the nutritious benefits of broccoli with the creamy richness of cheese and rice, making it a popular choice for family dinners and potlucks. This dish reflects the American tradition of casserole cooking, where various ingredients are baked together to create a hearty meal. Variations abound, with some families adding proteins like chicken or using different cheeses, showcasing its adaptability and widespread appeal.

Ingredients

  • broccoli
  • rice
  • cheddar cheese
  • cream of mushroom soup
  • milk
  • onion
  • garlic
  • butter
  • bread crumbs
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • paprika
  • mustard powder

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2Cook rice according to package instructions until tender.
  3. 3Steam broccoli until bright green and slightly tender, about 3-5 minutes.
  4. 4In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and sauté onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
  5. 5Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  6. 6In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, sautéed onion, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and mustard powder.
  7. 7Stir in shredded cheddar cheese, salt, black pepper, and paprika until well mixed.
  8. 8Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish and spread evenly.
  9. 9Top with additional cheddar cheese and bread crumbs for a crunchy topping.
  10. 10Bake in preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown on top.
  11. 11Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

cheddar cheese

Healthier: reduced-fat cheese

Cheaper: processed cheese

Reduced-fat cheese lowers calories while maintaining flavor.

cream of mushroom soup

Healthier: homemade mushroom sauce

Cheaper: cream of chicken soup

Homemade sauce can be healthier and more flavorful.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is healthier and can be used for sautéing.

bread crumbs

Healthier: panko

Cheaper: crushed crackers

Crushed crackers can provide a similar texture at a lower cost.

Techniques

sautéingbakingsteaming

Equipment

large skilletbaking dishmixing bowlsteamerpot
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowdairygluten

Also Known As

Cheesy Broccoli Rice CasseroleBroccoli Rice Bake

Creamed peas are a classic American side dish, often served at family gatherings and holiday meals. This dish highlights the sweet flavor of peas, complemented by a creamy sauce that adds richness. While traditionally made with butter and milk, modern variations may incorporate different dairy alternatives, making it accessible for various dietary preferences.

Ingredients

  • green peas
  • butter
  • all-purpose flour
  • milk
  • salt
  • black pepper
  • onion
  • sugar
  • parsley

Instructions

  1. 1Melt butter in a skillet over medium heat until foamy.
  2. 2Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
  3. 3Stir in all-purpose flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to create a roux.
  4. 4Gradually whisk in milk, stirring constantly until smooth and thickened, about 4-5 minutes.
  5. 5Add green peas and sugar, stirring to combine.
  6. 6Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  7. 7Cook until peas are heated through, about 2-3 minutes.
  8. 8Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

Ingredient Alternatives

milk

Healthier: almond milk

Cheaper: water

Almond milk reduces calories while maintaining creaminess.

butter

Healthier: olive oil

Cheaper: margarine

Olive oil is a healthier fat option.

Techniques

sautéingwhisking

Equipment

skilletwhiskmeasuring cupsspatula
🌶️🌶️🌶️Lowmilkwheat

Also Known As

Creamed Green PeasPeas in Cream Sauce

Ingredients

  • 1 (15 oz) can pumpkin puree
  • 1 (12 oz) can evaporated milk
  • 3 large eggs
  • 1 cup granulated sugar
  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 tsp ground ginger
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1 (18.25 oz) package yellow cake mix
  • 1 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
  • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions

  1. 1Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. 2In a large mixing bowl, combine the pumpkin puree, evaporated milk, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and salt. Mix until well combined.
  3. 3Pour the pumpkin mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
  4. 4Sprinkle the dry cake mix evenly over the pumpkin mixture. Do not stir.
  5. 5If using, sprinkle the chopped nuts over the cake mix.
  6. 6Drizzle the melted butter evenly over the top of the cake mix and nuts.
  7. 7Bake in the preheated oven for 50-60 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
  8. 8Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Serve warm or at room temperature.

Equipment

mixing bowlwhisk9x13 inch baking dishtoothpick

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