Let's Get Cookin'

Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and it's time to start planning your feast! Whether you're a seasoned chef or a first-time host, here are some delicious recipe ideas to ensure your Thanksgiving dinner is memorable and full of flavor.

Classic Stuffing

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf of day-old bread (about 10 cups), cubed
• 1 cup unsalted butter
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare Bread Cubes:
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Spread bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast in the oven until lightly golden.
2. Cook Vegetables:
   • In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Combine Ingredients:
   • In a large bowl, combine toasted bread cubes with sautéed vegetables, herbs, salt, and pepper.
   • Gradually add chicken broth until desired moisture is reached.
4. Bake Stuffing:
   • Transfer stuffing to a greased baking dish.
   • Bake uncovered for about 30 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping

Ingredients:

• 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes (about 4 large sweet potatoes)
• ½ cup brown sugar
• ¼ cup milk
• ½ cup unsalted butter, melted
• 2 large eggs
• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1 teaspoon cinnamon
• Pecan Topping:
  • 1 cup chopped pecans
  • ½ cup brown sugar
  • ¼ cup all-purpose flour
  • ¼ cup unsalted butter, melted

Instructions:

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare Sweet Potatoes: Peel and cube sweet potatoes. Boil in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and mash until smooth.
3. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, milk, melted butter, eggs, vanilla extract, and cinnamon. Mix until well combined.
4. Make Pecan Topping: In a separate bowl, mix chopped pecans, brown sugar, flour, and melted butter until crumbly.
5. Assemble Casserole: Pour the sweet potato mixture into a greased baking dish and sprinkle the pecan topping evenly over the top.
6. Bake: Bake for 30-35 minutes or until heated through and the topping is golden brown.

Creamy Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 3 pounds Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• ½ cup heavy cream or whole milk (plus more if needed)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil Potatoes:
   • Place cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add salt.
   • Bring to a boil over medium-high heat; then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
2. Drain and Mash:
   • Drain potatoes well and return them to the pot.
   • Add heavy cream, butter, salt, and pepper.
   • Mash until smooth using a potato masher or ricer.
3. Serve Warm:
   • Adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with freshly chopped chives or parsley if desired.

With these recipes in hand, you’re all set for a festive Thanksgiving celebration filled with delicious food and cherished memories. Happy cooking!

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