Thanksgiving Meal Ideas!
Thanksgiving is almost here, and while your travel plans are locked and loaded, that dish you’re bringing? Well, let’s just say it might still be in the “what do I do?!” phase. No worries—I’ve got your back! From Prep to Land, I’m your trusty co-pilot for all things travel and table-ready.
Let’s make sure the dish you bring is just as warm and welcoming as you are. I’ve got two recipes that are sure to impress: one for the big Thanksgiving feast and another for when you’re ready to give those leftovers a gourmet glow-up. These gems come straight from McCormick’s website (not sponsored, just delish!). Don’t worry—I’ll include the links so you can whip them up with ease.
Let’s dive in and make this Thanksgiving unforgettable—one plate at a time!
Dry Brined Turkey Breast with Apple Cider Gravy
Dry Brined Turkey Breast
4 teaspoons kosher salt
1 ½ teaspoons fresh lemon zest
1 ½ teaspoons McCormick Whole Thyme Leaves
1 teaspoon McCormick Pure Ground Black Pepper
1 teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder
1 bone-in turkey breast, fresh or frozen, thawed (about 5-6 pounds)
Cider Gravy
¼ cup (1/2 stick) butter
6 tablespoons flour
1 ¼ teaspoons McCormick Whole Thyme Leaves
¾ teaspoon McCormick Garlic Powder
½ teaspoon McCormick Pure Ground Black Pepper
2 cups turkey Stock
1 cup apple cider
1. For the Turkey Breast, mix salt, lemon zest, thyme, black pepper and garlic powder in small bowl. Pat turkey dry with paper towels. Using fingerprints to lift slightly, gently lift and loosen skin from turkey breast meat, being careful not to tear the skin. Rub about 1 tablespoon of the dry brine mixture underneath skin. Rub skin of the turkey breast with remaining dry brine, making sure to coat evenly all over. Place turkey, breast-side up, on wire rack on rimmed baking sheet. Refrigerate, uncovered, at least 8 hours or up to 24 hours for more flavor.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove turkey from refrigerator. Place in roasting rack on large shallow baking pan. Cover loosely with heavy-duty foil
3. Roast Turkey Breast 1 hour. Remove foil. Add water to pan. Roast 1 to 1 ½ hours longer or until internal temperature reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit, boasting occasionally with pan juices. Remove turkey from oven. Tent with foil and let stand 15 mins.
4. Meanwhile, for the Cider Gravy, melt butter in medium saucepan on medium heat. Wisk in flour and seasonings; cook and stir 1 to 2 minutes or until golden brown. Gradually whisk in stock and cider. Bring to boil. Reduce heat to low, simmer 5 minutes or until thickened. Transfer turkey breast to cutting board or platter to carve. Serve turkey with Cider Gravy.
Leftover Turkey Tack Crescent Ring
1 package McCormick Original Taco Seasoning Mix, divided
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup finely chopped onion
2 cups shredded cooked turkey
1 can (15 ¼ ounces) whole kernel corn, drained
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes and chilies, drained
1 garlic clove, minced
1 container (8 ounce) whipped cream cheese
2 cups shredded Cheddar cheese, divided
2 packages (5 ounces each) refrigerated crescent dinner rills
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Reserve 1 teaspoon Seasoning Mix in small bowl; set aside.
2. Melt butter in medium saucepan on medium heat. Add onion; cook and stir 3 minutes or until tender. Add turkey, corn, tomatoes, garlic and remaining Seasoning Mix. Cook and stir 5 minutes. Remove from heat, Stir in cream cheese and 1 cut of the shredded cheese.
3. Unroll each crescent roll dough on greased or parchment paper-lined baking pan. Separate into triangles. Arrange triangles to resemble the sun, with the center open. Press the dough where the bottoms of the triangles overlap. Spoon turkey mixture in a ring where the dough overlaps. Fold triangle points over filling, tucking into bottom layer to secure. Continue until entire ring is enclosed
4. Bake 15 minutes or until golden brown
5. Meanwhile stir remaining 12 cut shredded cheese into reserved Seasoning Mix in bowl. Remove ring from oven. Sprinkle with cheese mixture. Bake 5 minutes longer or until cheese is melted. Serve with desired toppings.
Give these recipes a whirl and let me know how they turn out—I’d love to hear all about it! And if you’re still tying up loose ends for Thanksgiving or gearing up for the Holiday Season, remember, I’m just a click away.
Momma Girl, I hope you and your family have the most fabulous Thanksgiving. What am I thankful for this season? YOU. I’m grateful for the chance to help you plan magical trips that are as unique and wonderful as you are.
Until next time, keep making life an experience and choosing to live the life you’ve always imagined. Don’t just exist—live fully and vibrantly.
Happy Thanksgiving, Momma Girl! Sending you peace, love, and all the good vibes!
