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Thanksgiving recipes have the potential to take a great meal and make it extraordinary. From the turkey to the stuffing to the other side dishes, preparing for the holiday doesn’t have to be overly stressful. Here at Kendall-Jackson, executive chef Justin Wangler has pulled together several different Thanksgiving dishes to help ensure your celebration with friends and family is a memorable one.
In the past, chef Justin has shared some favorite Thanksgiving recipes with Better Homes And Gardens, Lifehacker, and here on the Kendall-Jackson blog. This year we decided to round up some of the most popular dishes into one place. And, as a bonus, we’re offering perfect Thanksgiving wine pairings to go with each dish, to help make sure the whole meal is a hit.
From Thanksgiving dessert recipes to gluten-free and vegetarian stuffing recipes, we hope you enjoy the holiday.
1. Vegetarian And Gluten-Free Cornbread Stuffing 
An allergy is no reason to sacrifice flavor at Thanksgiving; neither is the choice to be vegetarian. This year, our culinary team worked hard to create a vegetarian and gluten-free recipe for cornbread stuffing. This stuffing doesn’t sacrifice flavor and it ensures that everyone at the table will be able to enjoy the meal.
Pair this gluten-free and vegetarian stuffing with Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Pinot Noir.
2. Brazilian-Style Collard Greens
No meal would be complete without some green vegetables on the table. A family member of our chef made these greens for Thanksgiving a few years ago, and it has become a staple of Chef Justin’s table. Easy, simple and delicious. Sure to be a hit.
Pair these collard greens with Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.
3. Savory Butternut Squash Dressing
Everyone loves a good Thanksgiving stuffing. This recipe can be prepared at the last minute, because it doesn’t take too long to cook. More of a bread pudding than a regular stuffing, this stuffing will bring your meal together, and your friends will be asking you to bring along to their house next year.
Pair this stuffing with Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay.
4. Pear & Arugula Salad
It’s easy to get bogged down in heavy recipes. This easy-to-make Thanksgiving side takes just a few minutes and is sure to bring a fresh, bright note to your meal that will help balance out all those potatoes.
Pair this pear and arugula salad with Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Sauvignon Blanc.
5. Pumpkin Mousse Tart
No meal would be complete without something a little sweet at the end. This Thanksgiving dessert recipe is a great alternative to the traditional pumpkin pie. The mousse is lighter and airier than the traditional dish, and is the perfect way to end the meal.
Pair the pumpkin mousse tart with Kendall-Jackson Late Harvest Chardonnay.
6. Results Of The Harold McGee Turkey Experiment
Getting the Turkey right is an important part of just about everyone’s Thanksgiving. But over cooked, dry breast meat is the downfall of too many. With this easy technique, you can be sure that your turkey is cooked just right, with moist white meat and dark meat that’s cooked all the way through.
Pair your Thanksgiving Turkey with Kendall-Jackson Vintner’s Reserve Chardonnay.
Tips for Stress-Free Thanksgiving Preparation
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a stress-fueled marathon in the kitchen. With a little planning, you can make the day run smoothly and still have time to enjoy the festivities. Here are a few tips to help you prep like a pro:
- Prep Ahead: Take advantage of the days leading up to Thanksgiving to get some dishes ready in advance. Desserts, stuffing, and even mashed potatoes can often be made a day or two before the big day, saving you precious time on Thanksgiving itself.
- Time-Saving Tricks: Multitasking is key! Roast your turkey while simultaneously preparing sides like squash or collard greens. You can also toss a slow cooker in the mix for hands-off dishes that can simmer away while you focus on other things.
- Set the Scene: Don’t forget about the atmosphere. Set the table the night before to reduce stress. Candles, a few autumn-themed touches, or a simple wine pairing station can make your home feel festive and welcoming. If you’re serving wine, lay out the bottles with tasting cards that suggest pairings for each course. Your guests will feel like they’re at a wine dinner!
A Toast to the Holiday Season
As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, it’s more than just about the food—it’s about creating memories with the people we care about. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or a cozy dinner for two, taking the time to enjoy the moment and the meal is what makes the holiday so special.
A great bottle of wine has a way of bringing people together, so why not offer your guests a selection of Kendall-Jackson wines to complement every course? From crisp whites to bold red wines, each bottle enhances the meal and the conversation. Plus, if you're looking for a thoughtful gift for your Thanksgiving host—or something to share with family over the holidays—Kendall-Jackson offers wine gift sets that are always a crowd-pleaser.
So, raise your glass, share a toast, and savor the moment. Cheers to a memorable Thanksgiving!
