80 Plus Thanksgiving Recipes

Need help planning your Thanksgiving dinner? Then, here are 80 plus Thanksgiving recipes. From appetizers to desserts, along with tips and suggestions to ensure that you deliver the best dinner that family and friends will talk about for a long, long time.

A collection of thanksgiving recipes — 80 Plus Recipes for Thanksgiving

I love entertaining, but it also is quite stressful because I am alone. And, the only reason I manage everything successfully is that I plan ahead. In addition, I also choose make-ahead dishes, as much as I can. And, most important, pick recipes that I know I can do. No experiments!

Today, I want to share with you a few tips that I have learned (some by trial and errors) from my own experience. I hope you will find them useful.

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BALSAMIC ROAST CHICKEN - This roast chicken is the perfect recipe for special occasions such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. It's flavored with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. And, accompanied by baby potatoes, apples, peaches, and grapes, which add a wonderful fruity flavor to the final gravy. Also, the leftover chicken, if any, makes the most delicious sandwiches and wraps.
ALL-BUTTER PIE CRUST - Making a homemade pie crust is easy peasy. This is my no-fail all-butter Pâte brisée recipe that always turns out flaky. Today, I show you how to make this great pie crust perfectly every single time.
CARROT ZUCCHINI FRITTERS - A good appetizer or side dish served with the main course can often be the star at the table. Make these carrot zucchini fritters or patties the next start at your dinner table. Simple, easy and effortless with step by step recipe and video on how to make it. No oven needed and not loaded with cheese, these zucchini fritters are light and perfect served with a meal or as a light snack.
CRANBERRY CARROT SALAD - A great way to eat carrots is to make a delicious carrot salad. Throw in a few fruit and nuts along with lemon juice and olive oil to make this simple and easy salad in less than 10 minutes.
PECAB PIE BROWNIES - The rich flavor of dark chocolate and sweetness from the pecan pie filling makes these the ultimate pecan pie brownies. A simple and easy recipe that's quick to mix and easy to bake in just over 40 minutes.
PUMPKIN SPICE LATTE CAKE - The rich flavor of pumpkin spice latte beverage in a cake makes it a pumpkin spice-latte cake. Combined with a maple buttercream frosting this cake is a perfect fall dessert. Oil-based cake batter makes for a light and airy cake infused with pumpkin spice mix, coffee, and maple syrup.
HOMEMADE BAILEYS IRISH CREAM - Rich, creamy, and luxurious this homemade Baileys Irish cream is made with condensed milk, whipping cream, coffee, and a splash of chocolate. This homemade version is the perfect alternative to the store-bought Irish cream
LAMB SHOULDER IN RED WINE - This roast lamb shoulder is marinated with garlic, ginger, and fresh herbs. It's roasted alongside veggies, then served with a rich red wine gravy. Perfect for the weekend or festive dinner with family and friends.
PUMPKIN CREME BRULEE - Add a seasonal touch to your next creme brûlée with this pumpkin creme brûlée. Rich, creamy, decadent made with egg yolks, cream, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice. The perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
CHOCOLATE CHIP PUMPKIN BREAD - This chocolate chip pumpkin bread is light and airy; it's an oil-based bread made in a loaf pan with pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice. A simple and easy recipe that takes just 10 minutes to mix and 50 minutes to bake.
VEENA'S PECAN PIE - This is my take on the classic pecan pie. Flaky all-butter pie crust filled with a rich and creamy soft filling made with syrup, brown sugar, and lots of pecans. The perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas.
BONELESS LEG OF LAMB - This boneless leg of lamb is marinated with garlic and herbs, roasted with a lemon and honey glaze. Then served with a red wine gravy. Perfect for a festive dinner over mashed potatoes.
LAMB CHOP WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE - These simple lamb chops with balsamic glaze get ready in less than 20 minutes. A perfect dish to make when you want something quick and easy but still elegant and holiday-worthy. Serve over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.
BUTTERSCOTCH BAILEYS IRISH CREAM - Take the classic Irish cream to a whole new level with this butterscotch Irish cream recipe. Rich, creamy and smooth, loaded with butterscotch flavor, and yet not too sweet. This is going to be your next favorite drink.
These little corn nuggets are soft and juicy on the inside but crisp on the outside. My simple and easy recipe for crispy corn fritters uses canned corn, a little cheese, and few other pantry staples. This kids-favorite snack is CORN FRITTERS - These little corn nuggets are soft and juicy on the inside but crisp on the outside. My simple and easy recipe for crispy corn fritters uses canned corn, a little cheese, and few other pantry staples. This kids-favorite snack is quick, easy and gets done in just 15 minutes.
CELERY SALAD RECIPE - This simple and easy celery salad recipe is packed full of nutrition. Celery is a juicy vegetable and has a wonderful crunch that makes eating salad so refreshing and fun. Adding a bit of cranberry and pecan and you have a side dish everyone will crave.
PUMPKIN COCONUT BUNDT WITH COCONUT CARAMEL GLAZE - It's the flavor of fall in this coconut pumpkin bundt cake drizzled with coconut caramel. This oil-based cake enriched with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and coconut cream is moist, light, and airy.
STANDING RIB ROAST - This prime rib roast, also called standing rib roast, is marinated with a dry rub made with coriander, cumin, paprika. Then, cooked to a perfect medium-rare, and served with a pomegranate glaze. The perfect roast to serve on special occasions.
CLASSIC APPLE PIE - This is my favorite homemade apple pie recipe because it has soft sweet apples but no pool of juices at the bottom of the pie. And, it's made with a buttery flaky homemade pie crust and crisp granny smith apples.
CRISPY GARLIC ROASTED POTATOES - What is the secret to making garlic roasted potatoes crispy? Here's my simple and easy method that makes them crisp on the outside while still moist and tender on the inside
UPSIDE DOWN PECAN PIE CAKE - This pecan pie cake has a layer of pecans caramelized on the bottom of a light and fluffy vanilla cake batter. When turned upside down, the caramelized juices sink into the baked sponge. The luxury of pie and cake all in one.
SAUTEED ASPARAGUS - Sauteed asparagus is simple and easy to make as well as a healthy and delicious veggie the whole family can enjoy. It is also the perfect side dish to serve with a big meal. The sprinkle of garlic, lemon and sesame makes these flavorful, aromatic, and refreshing. The best part these take only 10 minutes to make.
LEMON DILL ROASTED POTATOES - The roasted potatoes with lemon and dill make a great side dish for any meal. The sweetness of the red onion, the tart lemon flavor and the fresh dill perfume the potatoes beautifully. Pairs perfectly with any meat dish such as lamb, beef, turkey, chicken, and fish
MEAT STUFFED MUSHROOMS - These meat stuffed mushrooms make excellent appetizers for any fancy dinner or celebration table such as Thanksgiving or Christmas. In fact, they are so pretty on their own with the melted cheese on top; they need nothing to make them pretty. The juices from the meat nestle inside the cap and keep them juicy that it's difficult to have just one.
PECAN BLONDIES - Recreate your favorite pecan pie without the hassle of the crust. These pecan blondies are a fun twist to the pie. The vanilla base soaks up all the pie filling beautifully to give you a moist slice of heaven. Easier than a pie this will soon become a family favorite.
ROAST LEG OF LAMB - This leg of lamb is simple, easy, and uses my fool-proof method of roasting. If you are new to cooking meat, this is the recipe you can make to impress family and friends.
APPLE CAKE WITH CARAMEL BUTTERCREAM AND CARAMEL SAUCE - Apples and caramel are always a perfect match. So, celebrate this apple season with a caramel apple cake. Made with fresh apples, a hint of spice, layered with caramel buttercream and drizzled with more delicious caramel sauce. Whether you make this for a celebration or festive dinner this apple cake with caramel sauce will have everyone talking about it for days.
SKINNY MASKED POTATOES - Perfect mashed potatoes are comfort food. These creamy skinny mashed potatoes are so much lighter than traditional mashed potatoes. I use much less butter, and no cream or sour cream. And yet, they taste so good no one will believe they have less than half the fat. Plus, it is so simple and easy to make you'll be a pro in no time.
ROAST CHICKEN RECIPE - Roast chicken is perfect for Sundays or festive dinners when the whole family is around. This paprika roast chicken is juicy on the inside with a crisp golden brown skin on the outside. And, it's made with ingredients that you probably already have on hand.
BREADCRUMB STUFFED MUSHROOMS - This Breadcrumb Stuffed mushroom is a super easy and simple appetizer or side dish recipe. Takes barely any time to make and the cheesy bread crumbs just melt in the mouth. The perfect way to dress a celebration or the weekend dinner table. I use large mushrooms but any size mushrooms work just as well.
CHOCOLATE CHEESECAKE TART - Adorable mini tarts filled with a rich chocolate and cream cheese mixture in a buttery shortcrust pastry. These are semi-homemade chocolate cheesecake tarts and take only 20 minutes to make. Also, this chocolate cream cheese tart recipe uses ready-to-use tart shells that cut preparation time by half and make entertaining a breeze.
ALL- BUTTER PIE CRUST - Making a homemade pie crust is easy peasy. This is my no-fail all-butter Pâte brisée recipe that always turns out flaky. Today, I show you how to make this great pie crust perfectly every single time.
BAILEYS CHOCOLATE MARTINI - A martini is by far the most popular drink, no matter what the variation. This baileys chocolate martini is thick and creamy made with Irish cream, vodka, a splash of espresso, and dash of chocolate. It takes just 2 minutes to make, but so delicious you can't stop drinking
CRANBERRY CABBAGE SALAD - A light and refreshing yet simple and easy salad to make is this raw cabbage salad dressed with toasted sunflowers seeds and sweet cranberries. I keep the nice crunch of freshness but not the raw bite of leaves and I'll show you how with my little secret.
CLASSIC PECAN PIE - This is the classic pecan pie. A homemade all-butter pie crust and a filling made with brown sugar, corn syrup, molasses, and lots of pecans. The perfect make-ahead dessert for festive occasions such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.
BEEF CHUCK ROAST - This beef chuck roast is tender, juicy, and delicious. It's cooked in the oven using a marinade made with garlic and cayenne. And, served with a gravy made with pan drippings. A simple and easy recipe perfect for entertaining guests.
Rich, creamy, caramelized apples spiced with warm cinnamon then filled into buttery shortcrust pastry tarts. CINNAMON CARAMEL APPLE TART - These cinnamon caramel apple tarts a must-make in fall when apples are in season. Whether you make them from scratch or semi-homemade these caramel apple tartlets make the perfect bite-size treats for Thanksgiving or festive dinners.
ROAST LEG OF LAMN - This lamb is going to be your next favorite Sunday dinner. Today, I am going to show you how to roast a leg of lamb perfectly every single time. With a garlic butter marinade, this roast is tender and juicy, plus the gravy is to die for.
ROASTED SWEET POTATOES - These roasted sweet potatoes have crisp caramelized edges with soft insides. The recipe is simple and easy to make in less than 30 minutes. Perfect to serve as a side dish with main courses or in burritos and wraps.
STRAWBERRY VODKA COCKTAIL - This delicious Strawberry Vodka Cocktail is a perfect treat to end a long busy day or refresh yourself on a hot summers' day. I think Valentine's Day is another time I always think of this drink. Try infusing your regular vodka with delicious strawberries and watch the magic surround you. The taste and aroma are mesmerizing
MINI PUMPKIN PIE CHOCOLATE TARTS - These pumpkin pie chocolate tarts are mini tartlets filled with a chocolate-based pumpkin pie filling. The rich flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger in these little tarts are bound to warm you up this fall. These chocolate pumpkin tarts make perfect little treats to celebrate Thanksgiving or any cold winter weekend.
LAMB CHOPS WITH MINT SAUCE - There is no doubt that the quickest dinner is grilled lamb chops. Marinated and served with a classic mint sauce these take just 10 minutes to cook. Ideal for an elegant or a festive dinner when you have guests. Also, the lamb chops can be marinated overnight leaving you enough time to take care of other things.
OVEN-BAKED BUTTERNUT SQUASH FRIES - Vegetables when baked, bring out their natural sweetness. This simple and easy recipe for butternut squash fries will have you making this nutritious vegetable more often than you planned. It takes less than 30 minutes and is a kids' favorite
ROAST LEG OF LAMB WITH BABY POTATOES - This roast leg of lamb is marinated with garlic and fresh herbs, roasted alongside baby potatoes, and finished with a delicious red wine gravy. The perfect dish to make for the weekend or when entertaining family and friends.
DUTCH APPLE PIE - A Dutch apple pie is also known as apple crumble pie. A buttery, flaky, homemade pie crust with an apple pie filling. And, topped with a buttery crumble topping. That's making a classic apple pie even better
BEEF BURGUNDY/ BEEF BOURGUIGNON - This beef Burgundy recipe or beef bourguignon is beef pieces bathed in Burgundy wine, and cooked long and slow with herbs and mushrooms until they are fork-tender. This ultimate comfort food can be made in the slow cooker, stovetop as well as the oven.
OLD FASHION PIE CRUST WITH SHORTENING - This pie crust with shortening and butter is my mom's favorite method of making pie. Rich, buttery, and flaky crust for all your pies, savory or sweet.
LEEK AND ASPARAGUS QUICHE - Quiche is a perfect side dish for breakfast, brunch, or a festive meal. This easy leek and asparagus quiche is simple and easy. And yet, it's also a dish that can be made ahead of time. Asparagus quiche is a great way to enjoy asparagus in season. I'm using a homemade pie crust, but ready to roll store-bought works just as well.
CHOCOLATE CHIP PUMPKIN CAKE - This pumpkin cake recipe is topped with a beautiful glaze that looks very impressive. A moist, light, and airy cake with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and loaded with chocolate chips.
CHOCOLATE PECAN PIE - This chocolate pecan pie takes the classic pecan pie to the next level. A pie filling made with melted chocolate and loaded with pecans in a rich buttery homemade pie crust. The perfect dessert for festive occasions.
OVEN-BAKED CARROT STICKS - The oven-baked carrot sticks are an easy way to eat heart-healthy veggies more often. Baking veggies make them sweeter and more delicious. This simple and easy recipe will have you and the family eating carrots often because they take less than 30 minutes to make.
BUTTERSCOTCH CHOCOLATE PECAN SQUARES - These butterscotch chocolate pecan squares are a crisp shortcrust base with a hint of cocoa and topped with rich butterscotch coated pecans that just melt in your mouth. A simple and easy snack any time of the year but great to gift during the holidays.
PUMPKIN CAKE - This pumpkin cake is a pure luxury made with whipping cream in the batter as well as in the buttercream. A light and airy butter-based cake with brown sugar, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice mix. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table and impress family and friends.
APPLE CRUMBLE TART - This apple crumble tart is the perfect combination of tart apples and sweet crumble. So, if you love apple pie, you will love this tart even more. And, the tart apple filling is baked in a rich buttery shortcrust pastry and topped with sweet crumble. This is a dessert no one is going to refuse. The recipe is also surprisingly simple and easy to make.
CARAMELIZED ONIONS AND ROASTED RED PEPPERS QUICHE - A tender, flaky, buttery homemade pie crust filled with caramelized onions and roasted red peppers. Topped with an egg custard mixture and baked until set. Perfect for brunch or entertaining family and friends.
PUMPKIN DINNER ROLLS - Add a seasonal touch to your next batch of dinner rolls with these pumpkin dinner rolls. A simple and easy recipe that creates soft, light, and fluffy bread you can eat on its own.
CRANBERRY MARGARITA - This cranberry margarita takes only 5 minutes to make and needs only 4 ingredients cranberry juice, tequila, triple sec, and lemon juice.
PUMPKIN SPICE CAKE - Celebrate this holiday season with this pumpkin spice cake and a delicious no-butter cream cheese frosting that just melts in your mouth. A rich butter-based cake infused with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. Perfect to celebrate a festive dinner with family and friends.
APPLE PIE CAKE WITH CRUMBLE - This recipe brings everyone's fall favorite apple pie in cake form. This delicious moist apple pie cake is an absolute treat. The apple pie filling is flavored with warm spices of cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. And, combined with a smooth creamy cream-cheese based cake batter with a buttery crumble topping that bakes to a crisp.
BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD This buttery moist buttermilk cornbread is light and fluffy with crisp edges, a golden crumb and gets ready in less than half-hour. The house is filled with the wonderful aroma of baked cornbread which makes this the perfect dish when you have guests over.
SFOT CRESCENT ROLLS - I'm giving my classic crescent rolls a taste of fall with these pumpkin crescent rolls. Soft, light, and airy made with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. They are made with my no-knead recipe.
PUMPKIN CARAMEL TART - A tart filling made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice combined with caramel and white chocolate into a rich buttery shortcrust pastry. These pumpkin caramel tarts are perfect bite-size, make-ahead treats to celebrate the festive season.
TOMATO MOZZARELLA SALAD - This tomato Mozzarella salad is a great twist on the Italian classic Caprese salad with toasted pine nuts. Cherry tomato and mozzarella salad always look so good when served at a BBQ party. Simple, easy, and always refreshing this salad takes less than five minutes to put together.
ROSEMARY ROAST POTATOES - Rosemary and potatoes are a classic combination. These rosemary roast potatoes are a perfect side dish to serve alongside any dinner, be it festive or just any weekday meal. These baby roast potatoes are especially moist and tender when cooked to perfection and take only 30 minutes to make.
TRIPLE CHOCOLATE PUMPKIN TART - Celebrate the season of fall with something different this Thanksgiving. This triple chocolate pumpkin tart has three layers of chocolate both white and dark infused with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice in a homemade buttery shortcrust pastry.

Tips for planning the best Thanksgiving dinner

First, decide how many people are going to be at the dinner table so you don't have to recalculate your menu over and over again. In addition, plan for at least 2 extra servings, so you don't run short. It's always better to have a few leftovers than to run short at dinner
Then, choose a theme or style that is not too contrasting. For example, if you choose to make a Middle Eastern style main course, don't make a French-style side-dish or appetizer. Because, while they may be absolutely delicious on their own, often these flavors don't complement each other.
Also, choose dishes that look pretty, colorful, and offer a variety of textures and tastes.
And, make a few classics for those who are more conservative, and try a few new recipes so people get something different. As a result, they will remember it a long time later.
Don't repeat the main ingredients. For example, if you are making one main-course lamb (red meat), make the other chicken or fish. Or, if you choose one pumpkin pie, don't make the second dessert with pumpkin or pie. For example, try an apple cake, brownies, etc.
Also, give a mix of different textures. For example, if you make mashed potatoes don't make mashed peas. Rather, try oven-baked or sautéed veggies.
Try to use as many make-ahead dishes as you can such as desserts, side dishes, and appetizers. That way, you can concentrate on the main course and setting the table.
Most important, make sure to take into account those in the family with special dietary needs, and allergies, such as vegans, or egg and dairy allergies.
And, if you are new to cooking, choose recipes that are easy and you are confident making or have tried before. And, if you are a seasoned cook, choose 70% tried and tested recipes, and, in addition, choose two to three that will stretch your cooking skills.
Don't skip salads, bread, and condiments. In fact, bread is easy to make or buy ahead. And, salads add color and texture to the dinner table. Also, condiments are often what people need to add a little something to their main dish, like cranberry sauce with roast turkey or chicken.
Lastly, make sure to offer your guests drinks, and appetizers that will encourage mingling. This is especially important when you have guests that don't know each other. For example, pre-snacks such as chips with salsa, cheese, and crackers are a great way to build an appetite, but too much of that can also become unnecessary fillers.

A collage of fall recipes — 80 Plus Recipes for Thanksgiving

Drinks - Cranberry margarita, wine
Appetizer - Roasted red pepper goat cheese crostini
Salad - Make-ahead cherry tomato mozzarella salad
Main-course - Roast turkey & Beef in red wine
Side dish - Mashed potatoes, oven-baked carrot sticks, and corn fritters
Condiments - Cranberry sauce, red pepper tamponade, roasted garlic
Bread - Pumpkin dinner rolls and whole wheat walnut raisin bread
Dessert - Apple pie and chocolate chip pumpkin cake
Aperitif or after-dinner drinks - Baileys, Butterscotch baileys or bailey's chocolate martini, pumpkin spice latte, chai spice latte, hot chocolate (kids)

Drinks - Strawberry vodka cocktail, wine
Appetizer - Roasted red pepper goat cheese crostini
Salad - Make-ahead cranberry cabbage salad,
Main-course - Roast leg of lamb & chicken in mushroom sauce
Side dish - Butternut squash fries, Crispy garlic roasted potatoes, sauteed sesame green beans
Condiments - cranberry sauce, red pepper tamponade, roasted garlic,
Bread - Braided challah and skillet buttermilk cornbread
Dessert - Pecan pie and Caramel apple cake
Aperitif or after-dinner drinks - Baileys, Butterscotch baileys or bailey's chocolate martini, pumpkin spice latte, chai spice latte, hot chocolate (kids)

Drinks - Strawberry vodka cocktail, wine
Appetizer - Roasted red pepper goat cheese crostini
Salad - Make-ahead celery salad
Main-course - Roast Chicken & Beef Burgundy
Side dish - Lemon dill roasted potatoes, carrot zucchini fritters, sauteed asparagus
Condiments - Cranberry sauce, red pepper tamponade, roasted garlic,
Bread - Soft dinner rolls and no-knead crusty bread OR Cloverleaf rolls and no-knead beer bread
Dessert
Apple crumble pie and pumpkin cake or pumpkin souffle Or Pumpkin pie and pecan blondies or pecan pie brownies
Aperitif or after-dinner drinks -
Baileys, Butterscotch baileys or bailey's chocolate martini, pumpkin spice latte, chai spice latte, hot chocolate (kids)

Thanksgiving recipes

Drinks

Cocktails are a great way to start before dinner. Then, move on to wine for dinner. Most importantly, choose wines that will complement the main course you are cooking. Often, the wine seller will be able to guide you on what wine is best to serve with your course. That is why planning becomes very critical.

Cranberry Margarita

Did you know that cranberry juice mixed with a little alcohol makes such a wonderful combination together? This cranberry margarita needs only 4 ingredients but a few of these around can help bring your party to life.

Total Time - 3 mins

This delicious Strawberry Vodka Cocktail is a perfect treat to end a long busy day or refresh after a hot summer day. Try infusing your regular vodka with delicious strawberries and watch the magic surround you.

Total Time - 5 mins

Appetizers

When choosing appetizers, pick things that are light as compared to filling. Also, avoid spicy, or very strong flavors that will contradict the meal.

Roasted Red Peppers Goat Cheese Crostini Antipasti

A plate with roasted red pepper and goat cheese crostini.

Roasted red pepper appetizers are a classic and so are goat cheese crostini. These roasted red peppers goat cheese crostini are a heavenly combination of these two. They are an absolute treat served as an appetizer or as a side dish. Add a salad in summer for a light meal, or a soup in winter for a light comfort food. The sweet roasted red peppers, marinated in balsamic and olive oil, combined with creamy goat cheese over warm crusty bread are a must try.

Total Time - 40 mins

Roasted red pepper tapenade in a serving dish.

A tapenade is a must have on hand for easy sandwich spreads, tortilla wraps, and appetizers. This roasted red pepper garlic tapenade is our family favorite, super easy, quick and simple to make. You will be totally addicted to it.

Total Time - 50 mins

Salads

Personally, I choose salads that I can make ahead of time and ones that will stay well as leftovers. That way, there is less to do and things don't get wasted.

Tomato Mozzarella Salad

A white bowl with mozzarella and tomatoes

This tomato Mozzarella salad is a great twist on the Italian classic Caprese salad with toasted pine nuts. Tomato and mozzarella are always a great combination. The best part is this gets done in no time at all and can be kept in the fridge for days.

Total Time - 5 mins

A great way to eat carrots is to make a delicious carrot salad. Throw in a few fruit and nuts along with a sweet zesty dressing. This simple and easy salad takes less than 10 minutes.

Total Time - 5 mins

This simple and easy celery salad recipe is packed full of nutrition. Celery is a juicy vegetable and has a wonderful crunch that makes eating salad so refreshing and fun. Adding a bit of cranberry and pecan and you have a side dish everyone will crave.

Total Time - 5 mins

Main courses

In one of my tips above, I mentioned paying attention to variety and textures but also to avoid repetition. For example:

Don't make two lamb dishes. Instead, make one lamb and one chicken or turkey.
Also, don't make two roast dishes make one roast and the second a slow-cooked, braised, or stewed.
And, don't forget to accommodate the people with allergies and special diets like vegetarians, vegans, etc.

How to roast Leg of Lamb

Medium rare leg of lamb on a wooden board

This lamb is going to be your next favorite Sunday dinner. Today, I am going to show you how to roast a leg of lamb perfectly every single time. With a garlic butter marinade, this roast is tender and juicy, plus the gravy is to die for.

Total Time - 1 hr 40 mins

This roasted boneless leg of lamb needs only 15 minutes for the marinade and less than 2 hours of roasting. Perfect for the whole family to celebrate festive dinners. Serve over mashed potatoes with or without gravy.

Total Time - 3 hrs 30 mins

This prime rib roast also called standing rib roast is marinated with a dry rub made with coriander, cumin, paprika. Cooked to a perfect medium-rare, then served with a pomegranate glaze. The perfect roast to serve on special occasions.

Total Time - 1 hr 45 mins

This leg of lamb is simple, easy, and uses my fool-proof method of roasting. If you are new to cooking meat, this is the recipe you can make to impress family and friends.

Total Time - 1 hr 40 mins

Roast chicken is perfect for Sundays or festive dinners when the whole family is around. This chicken is juicy on the inside with a crisp golden brown skin on the outside. And, it's made with ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

Total Time - 1 hr 35 mins

This beef chuck roast is tender, juicy, and delicious. It's cooked in the oven using a marinade made with garlic and cayenne. And, served with a gravy made with pan drippings. A simple and easy recipe perfect main dish for entertaining guests.

Total Time - 4 hrs

This roast chicken is flavored with maple syrup and balsamic vinegar. Accompanied by baby potatoes and grapes, which add a wonderful fruity flavor to the final gravy. Also, the leftover chicken, if any, makes the most delicious sandwiches and wraps.

Total Time - 1 hr 50 mins

A white platter with a leg of lamb and potatoes

This roast leg of lamb is marinated with garlic and fresh herbs, roasted alongside baby potatoes and finished with a delicious red wine gravy. The perfect dish to make for the weekend or when entertaining family and friends.

Total Time - 1 hr 20 mins

A plate with lamb chops and mashed potatoes.

There is no doubt that the quickest dinner is grilled lamb chops. Marinated and served with a classic mint sauce these take just 10 minutes to cook. Ideal for an elegant or a festive dinner when you have guests. Also, the lamb chops can be marinated overnight leaving you enough time to take care of other things.

Total Time - 15 mins

This braised lamb in red wine, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs is slow-cooked for almost two hours until the meat is fork-tender. Serve over steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or buttered noodles for a complete meal.

Total Time - 1 hr 50 mins

This Beef Burgundy or Beef Bourguignon is beef pieces bathed in burgundy wine cooked long and slow with herbs and mushrooms until they are fork-tender. This ultimate comfort food can be made in the slow cooker, stovetop as well as the oven

Total Time - 3 hrs 10 mins

A plate of lamb chops with mashed potatoes.

These simple lamb chops with balsamic glaze get ready in less than 20 minutes. A perfect dish to make when you want something quick and easy but still elegant and holiday-worthy. Serve over mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Total Time - 20 mins

This succulent slow cooked roast lamb shoulder is cooked low and slow keeping it soft and juicy. Infused with a mixture of fresh herbs such as rosemary, theme and cilantro and some robust red wine as a result you get a delicious gravy.

This slow-cooked lamb shoulder is the easiest, fool-proof lamb roast you can make. With very little prep time, this roast lamb shoulder becomes soft, tender and incredibly delicious. It's infused with fresh herbs such as rosemary, thyme and some robust red wine, which results in a delicious gravy. A perfect recipe that everyone will love.

Total Time - 2 hrs 15 mins

Fork-tender piece of beef cooked in a rich red wine gravy make this simple and easy recipe for beef in red wine the best dinner. Serve over steamed rice or mashed potatoes for a complete meal.

Total Time - 2 hrs 20 mins

A plate of slow cooked lamb with polenta.

This slow-cooked lamb is cooked to fork-tender in a tomato and caramelized onion-based gravy with spices like cumin, paprika, and cinnamon. Today, I served it over a bed of creamy Parmesan polenta, and yet, mashed potato, steamed rice would also be perfect.

Total Time - 3 hrs 40 mins

Side-dishes

Some side dishes are great to make ahead of time. For example, quiches. And, some can be made a few hours ahead like the patties and fritters. So, if possible, choose a mix of both so you are not overwhelmed at the last hour.

Oven-Baked Carrot Sticks

The oven-baked carrot sticks are an easy way to eat heart-healthy veggies more often. Baking veggies make them sweeter and more delicious. This simple and easy recipe will have you and the family eating carrots often because they take less than 30 minutes to make.

Total Time - 25 mins

A stack of corn fritters on a wooden board.

These little corn nuggets are soft and juicy on the inside but crisp on the outside. My simple and easy recipe for crispy corn fritters uses canned corn, a little cheese, and few other pantry staples. This kids-favorite snack is quick, easy and gets done in just 15 minutes.

Total Time - 15 mins

A plate with patties made with Swiss chard.

Whether you call these Swiss chard patties, cakes, or fritters these make amazing appetizers or sides. This recipe is a simple and easy recipe but so versatile it can be served with any meal from breakfast to dinner. You can serve them on their own, as a snack or in sandwiches too.

Total Time - 30 mins

Vegetables when baked, bring out their natural sweetness. This simple and easy recipe for butternut squash fries will have you making this nutritious vegetable more often than you planned. It takes less than 30 minutes and is a kids' favorite

Total Time - 20 mins

These spinach potato patties or cakes, make amazing appetizers or sides. This recipe is a simple and easy recipe but so versatile it can be served with any meal from breakfast to dinner. You can serve them on their own, as a snack or in sandwiches and wraps too.

Total Time - 13 mins

A slice of asparagus and leek quiche on a plate.

Quiche is a perfect side dish for breakfast, brunch or a festive meal. This easy leek and asparagus quiche is simple and easy. And yet, it's also a dish that can be made ahead of time. Asparagus quiche is a great way to enjoy asparagus in season. I'm using a homemade pie crust, but ready to roll store-bought works just as well.

Total Time - 2 hrs 20 mins

This is the BEST mushroom quiche recipe made from scratch using homemade quiche crust. The filling is soft, creamy, flavored with garlic, onions, and cheese. A perfect make-ahead dish for entertaining whether it's breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner.

Total Time - 1 hr

A slice of red peppers quiche on a plate.

A tender, flaky, buttery homemade pie crust filled with caramelized onions and roasted red peppers. Topped with an egg custard mixture and baked until set. Perfect for brunch or entertaining family and friends.

Total Time - 1 hr 5 mins

Sauteed asparagus in sesame is simple and easy to make in less than 15 minutes. It is the perfect side dish to serve with the main course such as roast chicken, roast ribs, or roast lamb. The sprinkle of garlic, lemon makes these aromatic, and refreshing.

Total Time - 15 mins

Breadcrumb Stuffed Mushrooms

This Breadcrumb Stuffed mushroom is a super easy and simple appetizer or side dish recipe. Takes barely any time to make and the cheesy bread crumbs just melt in the mouth. The perfect way to dress a celebration or the weekend dinner table. I use large mushrooms but any size mushrooms work just as well.

Total Time - 30 mins

These skinny mashed potatoes are so much lighter than traditional mashed potatoes. Made with less butter and milk this one is creamy, buttery, and delicious. Perfect to accompany any main course from the leg of lamb, roast chicken, or fish fillets.

Total Time - 20 mins

A plate of green beans with sesame seeds.

Nothing beats a side dish such as these sesame green beans that are simple, easy and effortless. An absolute winner with family, or guests. Lightly flavored with garlic and tossed with toasted sesame seeds for that added flavor. These make a perfect side for any main course.

Total Time - 15 mins

These roast potatoes are a perfect side dish to serve alongside any dinner, be it festive or weekday meal. Flavored with rosemary and lemon these baby potatoes are especially moist and tender in just 45 minutes.

Total Time - 50 mins

What is the secret to making garlic roasted potatoes crispy? Here's my simple and easy method that makes them crisp on the outside while still moist and tender on the inside.

Total Time - 40 mins

These roasted sweet potatoes have crisp caramelized edges with soft insides. The recipe is simple and easy to make in less than 30 minutes. Perfect to serve as a sided dish with main courses or in burritos and wraps.

Total Time - 40 mins

The roasted potatoes make a great side dish with any main course from a leg of lamb, roast beef, or roast chicken. Sweet red onions, zesty lemon flavor, and fresh dill perfume the potatoes beautifully.

Total Time - 50 mins

Bread

Of course, you can easily buy bread. And yet, if you are a seasoned cook like me, then you want to show your baking skills. In addition, a great thing about bread is that you can make it a few hours ahead of time. Also, I like to add a seasonal touch to my bread, such as pumpkin in fall, which is also perfect for Thanksgiving.

Buttermilk Cornbread Recipe

This buttery moist buttermilk cornbread is light and fluffy with crisp edges, a golden crumb and gets ready in less than half-hour. The house is filled with the wonderful aroma of baked cornbread which makes this the perfect dish when you have guests over.

Total Time - 30 mins

Add a seasonal touch using pumpkin puree to your next batch of dinner rolls with these pumpkin dinner rolls. A simple and easy recipe that creates soft, light, and fluffy bread you can eat on its own or serve with your meal.

Total Time - 2 hrs 17 mins

I'm giving my classic crescent rolls a taste of fall with these no-knead pumpkin crescent rolls. Soft, light, and airy made with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice.

Total Time - 3 hrs 20 mins

A crusty loaf of bread on a wooden cutting board.

This no-knead bread needs just 6 ingredients, takes less than 5 minutes to combine, and 4 hours of proofing. Despite no-kneading, it has an amazing crust outside, yet light and airy texture on the inside. The best part is that it looks absolutely gorgeous and your guest won't believe you baked it.

Total Time - 6 hrs 50 mins

Have you been intimidated by the pretty challah? Not any more. Today, I share with you the easiest three-braid challah bread recipe you will ever make. This recipe uses just six ingredients, which are regular pantry staples and the process is surprisingly simple and easy.

Total Time - 2 hrs 40 mins

These raisin and walnut bread are made with a combination of whole wheat flour and all-purpose flour. It has a lovely crust on the outside with a soft chewy texture on the inside. Perfect for breakfast or dinner.

Total Time - 3 hrs

A sliced beer bread with olives on a cutting board.

This no-knead beer bread is an absolute classic. Yeast risen, filled with black and green olives this rustic bread takes only 10 minutes hands-on and 45 minutes to bake. A simple and easy basic yeast beer bread that’s versatile and can be used with many different filling variations.

Total Time - 2 hrs 40 mins

Desserts

First, you can never have enough desserts. In fact, I usually make at least two. Also, it is important to know your guests and take into account any nut, dairy, or egg allergies.

Make two different dishes - for example, instead of making two pies, make one pie and one cake or panna cotta.
And, use different main ingredients. Avoid two fruits. For example, if you use pumpkin in one dessert, make the second with chocolate or vanilla.

How to Make Apple Pie

Today, I share how to make an apple pie, homemade from scratch using homemade double pie crust and the perfect homemade apple pie filling made with granny smith apples.

Total Time - 4 hrs 30 mins

A Dutch apple pie is also known as apple crumble pie. A buttery, flaky, homemade pie crust with an apple pie filling. And, topped with a buttery crumble topping. That's making a classic apple pie even better.

Total Time - 1 hr 40 mins

This chocolate pecan pie takes the classic pecan pie to the next level. A pie filling made with melted chocolate and loaded with pecans in a rich buttery homemade pie crust. The perfect dessert for festive occasions such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Total Time - 2 hrs 15 mins

This is the classic pecan pie. A homemade all-butter pie crust and a filling made with brown sugar, corn syrup, molasses, and lots of pecans. The perfect make-ahead dessert for festive occasions such as Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Total Time - 2 hrs 15 mins

This is my take on the classic pecan pie. Flaky all-butter pie crust filled with a rich and creamy soft filling made with syrup, brown sugar, and lots of pecans. The perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Total Time - 50 mins

A slice of cardamon cake with mocha buttercream.

Cardamom and coffee is a wonderful combination in this cardamom cake. A light and airy butter-based coffee cake delicately flavored with cardamom and nutmeg. Then, generously frosted with mocha buttercream. Perfect for a festive celebration or special occasion.

Total Time - 5 hrs 20 mins

Celebrate the apple season with this caramel apple cake. Made with fresh apples, a hint of spice, layered with caramel buttercream and drizzled with more delicious homemade caramel sauce. Whether you make this for a celebration or festive dinner this will have everyone talking about it for days.

Total Time - 45 mins

A frosted cake with fondant pumpkins on top

This pumpkin cream cake recipe is rich, moist, and delicious. Made with whipping cream in the batter as well as in the buttercream. A light and airy butter-based cake with pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice mix. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table, birthday cake, or to impress family and friends.

Total Time - 45 mins

Add a seasonal touch to your next creme brûlée with this pumpkin creme brûlée. Rich, creamy, decadent made with egg yolks, cream, pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice. The perfect dessert for Thanksgiving or Christmas.

Total Time - 35 mins

A slice of an upside down pecan pie cake on a plate.

This pecan pie cake has a layer of pecans caramelized on the bottom of a light and fluffy vanilla cake batter. When turned upside down, the caramelized juices sink into the baked sponge. The luxury of pie and cake all in one.

Total Time - 40 mins

Celebrate the season of fall with something different this Thanksgiving. This triple chocolate pumpkin tart has three layers of chocolate both white and dark infused with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice in a homemade buttery shortcrust pastry.

Total Time - 1 hr 10 mins

A frosted spice latte cake with fondant pumpkins.

The rich flavor of pumpkin spice latte beverage in a cake makes a delicious pumpkin spice-latte cake. Frosted with maple buttercream this is a light and airy oil-based cake with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and coffee. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table, birthday cake, or to impress family and friends.

Total Time - 2 hrs

Creme caramel is a baked custard with a layer of clear caramel. Rich, creamy, with a velvety smooth texture; this is sheer luxury. Often, perceived as a difficult dessert to make, this is actually surprisingly easy with my video tutorial.

Total Time - 40 mins

A frosted cake with cream cheese and fondant pumpkins.

Celebrate this holiday season with this pumpkin spice cake frosted with delicious no-butter cream cheese frosting that just melts in your mouth. A rich butter-based cake made with pumpkin puree and pumpkin spice. Perfect layer cake to adorn a festive dinner table, birthday cake, or to impress family and friends.

Total Time - 1 hr 35 mins

It's the flavor of fall in this coconut pumpkin bundt cake drizzled with coconut caramel. This oil-based cake enriched with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and coconut cream is moist, light, and airy

Total Time - 57 mins

Individual desserts

Mini treats mean you don't need to cut and serve. Just leave them on the table so people can help themselves. Also, you can buy the tartlet shells readymade or make them yourself.

Cream Cheese Chocolate Mousse Tarts - Mini Tarts

Bite-size mini chocolate tarts make perfect desserts after a meal. These cream cheese chocolate mousse tarts are semi-homemade treats that take no more than 10 minutes to prepare when you use ready-made mini tart shells. Cream cheese based chocolate mousse in a buttery shortcrust tart shell.

Total Time - 10 mins

Mini tart shell filled with caramel apple filling.

Sweet delicious apples in caramel sauce spiced with cinnamon then filled into buttery premade shortcrust pastry tarts. These mini-tarts or caramel apple tartlets are a must-make in fall when apples are in season.

Total Time - 12 mins

These chocolate tartlets are buttery rich ready-to-use mini tart shells filled with my easy chocolate ganache recipe. You can make your own mini tart shells of course but these make quick and easy semi-homemade treats.

Total Time - 6 mins

These chocolate caramel tartlets are perfect bite-size, make-ahead semi-homemade treats. Made with homemade caramel sauce, dark chocolate, and ready-to-use tart shells but you can also make homemade mini tart shells.

Total Time - 12 mins

Adorable mini tarts filled with a rich chocolate cream cheese mixture in a buttery shortcrust pastry. These semi-homemade chocolate cheesecake tarts take only 20 minutes to make. This chocolate cream cheese tart recipe takes advantage of ready-to-use tart shells that cut preparation time by half and make entertaining a breeze

Total Time - 3 hrs 15 mins

After dinner drinks - Aperitif

I like to choose liquors that are delicate and help calm you down rather than strong alcohol. Of course, these are great when accompanied with hot beverages.

Homemade Baileys Irish Cream

Rich, creamy, and luxurious this homemade Baileys Irish cream is made with condensed milk, whipping cream, coffee, and a splash of chocolate. This homemade version is the perfect alternative to the store-bought Irish cream.

Total Time - 2 mins

A person pouring Irish cream into a glass.

Take the classic Irish cream recipe to a whole new level with this butterscotch Irish cream. Rich, creamy and smooth, loaded with butterscotch flavor, and yet not too sweet. This is going to be your next favorite drink.

Total Time - 5 mins

A glass of Baileys chocolate martini on a table.

A martini is by far the most popular drink no matter what the variation. This baileys chocolate martini is thick and creamy made with Irish cream, vodka, a splash of espresso and dash of chocolate. It takes just 5 minutes to make, but so delicious you can’t stop drinking.

Total Time - 2 mins

This pumpkin spice latte takes just 5 minutes and a few pantry staples. No more standing in long coffee shop lines. And, best of all, it's delicious. It's made with coffee, milk, pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and honey.

Total Time - 5 mins

This chai latte is milk tea along with chai spices made with ground ginger, cardamom, cinnamon, etc. It takes just 5 minutes to make it at home so you don't have to drive to the store every time you need a delicious latte.

Total Time - 5 mins

This hot chocolate is rich, thick, creamy, and chocolaty. Made with my popular homemade hot chocolate mix that uses real chocolate along with the cocoa powder. It takes just five minutes to prepare and will soon become your favorite chocolate drink.

Total Time - 5 mins

What do you take with you to a thanksgiving dinner?

I thought it was important to give you a few options that would be perfect to take with you if you are invited to Thanksgiving dinner. Many people take wine along with a dessert.

Choose something that travels wells.
Choose a dessert that will stay well the next day in case of leftovers.

Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Sliced pumpkin loaf bread with chocolate chips.

This chocolate chip pumpkin bread is light and airy; it's an oil-based sweet bread made in a loaf pan with pumpkin puree, and pumpkin spice. A simple and easy recipe that takes just 10 minutes to mix and 50 minutes to bake.

Total Time - 1 hr

Recreate your favorite pecan pie without the hassle of the crust. These pecan blondies are a fun twist to the pie. The vanilla base soaks up all the pie filling beautifully to give you a moist slice of heaven. Easier than a pie this will soon become a family favorite.

Total Time - 1 hr 5 mins

These chocolate pecan squares have a crisp shortcrust base with a hint of cocoa and topped with butterscotch coated pecans made from scratch. A simple and easy snack any time of the year but a great edible gift during the holidays.

Total Time - 33 mins

A dessert with the rich bitter flavor of dark chocolate and sweetness from the pecan pie filling makes this the ultimate pecan pie brownies. A simple, easy and effortless recipe that's quick to mix and easy to bake in just over 40 minutes. A perfect fall dessert for anyone who loves chocolate brownies and delicious pecan pie. Try making this for your next family festive celebration.

Total Time - 50 mins

This delicious apple pie cake is an absolute treat and the perfect combination of my three favorite things. Syrupy apple pie filling, moist vanilla cake batter, and buttery crumble topping.

Total Time - 1 hr 10 mins

This pumpkin cake recipe is a moist, light, and airy cake made with pumpkin puree, pumpkin spice, and lots of chocolate chips. Serve with or without the glaze this cake is the perfect fall dessert.

Total Time - 55 mins

Back to basics

Here are a few basic recipes you may need to create some of the dishes above.

Pie Crust Recipe

Making a homemade pie crust is easy peasy. This is my no-fail all-butter Pâte brisée recipe that always turns out flaky. Today, I show you how to make this great pie crust perfectly every single time.

Total Time - 1 hr 40 mins

This pie crust with shortening and butter is my mom's favorite method of making pie. Rich, buttery, and flaky crust for all your pies, savory or sweet.

Total Time - 1 hr 40 mins

Is there anything better than a flaky buttery homemade pie crust? This is my no-fail Pâte brisée recipe that always turns out flaky every single time. The recipe is surprisingly simple and easy to make too.

Total Time - 1 hr 30 mins

Homemade quiche crust is simple and easy to make from scratch. With just 4 ingredients, which are pantry staples, this takes 10 minutes to combine and 20 minutes to chill.

Total Time - 1 hr 30 mins

What better way to welcome fall than a sprinkle of the fresh homemade pumpkin spice mix over your baked goods and drinks? Did you know that this spice mix needs only five basic spices you probably already have in your pantry?

Total Time - 2 mins

Have you ever wondered how to make homemade sour cream? Today, I share with you my no-fail method along with three ways to make your own from scratch at home.

Total Time - 12 hrs 7 mins

Bowl of a stand mixer with whipped cream.

You can make homemade whipped cream with just 3 ingredients in just 5 minutes? Today, I will show you 4 different methods to make your own light and fluffy whipped cream to top on anything from pancakes and waffles, to dessert cakes, cheesecakes, and drinks.

Total Time - 3 mins

A Pate Sucree' aka shortcrust pastry is the perfect base for many desserts, such as tarts, pies, and desserts. It's a buttery, sweet pastry with a biscuit-like crumb that just melts in your mouth. And, it is surprisingly easy to make it yourself.

Total Time - 1 hr 30 mins

A rich shortcrust pastry or Pâte Sabée as they say in French is a buttery shortbread-like crust perfect base for making sweet tarts such as fruit tarts. Today, I show you three methods to roll this pastry from scratch.

Total Time - 50 mins

SAVE THIS RECIPE ON PINTEREST FOR LATER. TRIED MY RECIPE? SHARE IT WITH ME, PLEASE.
Share a picture of your work with me by uploading an image here below my image on this board. You can also find a collection of my tutorials and recipes here on Pinterest.

A collage of fall recipes for thanksigiving — 80 Plus Recipes for Thanksgiving

Well, I hope you found my tips useful and I hope my recipes and menus give you some ideas for your Thanksgiving dinners. And, if you do try my recipes, I'd love to hear which and how they came out. Also, if you found any of my tips useful, and have any of yours to share, I'd love to hear them too. Feel free to let me know in the comments below.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Comments

Would love to hear your thoughts, please comment Cancel reply

erotik izle

December 09, 2020 at 3:57 pm

Amazing! Its a genuinely amazing post, I have got much clear idea concerning from this post.

Chef Dennis

November 16, 2020 at 8:13 am

Wow, you shared so many delicious recipes, I don't know where to begin!

Jo

November 16, 2020 at 2:09 am

Everything you need for Thanksgiving is all here. What a collection!

Chandice Probst

November 15, 2020 at 11:16 pm

Wow 85 recipes! Definitely Thanksgiving recipe for everyone… The way you formatted it made it so easy to go look at all of them too, thank you!

- Veena Azmanov
  
  November 16, 2020 at 12:36 am
  
  You are welcome Chandice
  
Amanda

November 15, 2020 at 8:00 pm

These recipes all look delicious! I think I'll have to start with the balsamic maple roast chicken, but I definitely plan on making my way through the list.

- Veena Azmanov
  
  November 16, 2020 at 12:36 am
  
  Thanks, Amanda.

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Start slideshow

Tips for planning the best Thanksgiving dinner

Here are a few examples of how I plan my menu

Menu 1

Menu 2

Menu 3

Thanksgiving recipes

Drinks

Appetizers

Salads

Main courses

Side-dishes

Garlic Sautéed Asparagus with sesame seeds

Bread

Desserts

Individual desserts

After dinner drinks - Aperitif

What do you take with you to a thanksgiving dinner?

Back to basics

Hungry for more?

Author - Veena Azmanov

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