Thanksgiving comes around every year, and I have to tell you, it’s my favorite holiday right next to Christmas. There’s something about being in the kitchen, surrounded by the people you love, cooking food that brings back so many memories.

Every year, I see new recipes I want to try. But somehow, I always come right back to the same ones. We’ve been waiting all year for that dressing, that gravy, those candied yams. It’s tradition, and some things you just don’t mess with!

I tell my family and friends to bring their favorite dishes to add to the table. The more, the merrier. But a few staples stay in rotation at my house almost every year.

WHAT’S COOKING EVERY THANKSGIVING?

CAJUN TURKEY

Juicy, buttery, and seasoned just right.

SEAFOOD DRESSING

A little Southern seafood goodness.

TRADITIONAL CHICKEN & CORNBREAD DRESSING

Just like Mama made it.

CANDIED YAMS

Sweet, buttery, and full of flavor.

COLLARD GREENS

Slow-cooked with smoked turkey and jalapeños.

SOUTHERN POTATO SALAD

Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without it.

HOMEMADE CRANBERRY SAUCE

Fresh cranberries, cloves, cinnamon, oranges, and freshly squeezed orange juice.

OLD-FASHIONED PECAN PIE

Rich, gooey, and worth every bite.

HOMEMADE BANANA PUDDING

Because somebody’s always asking for seconds.

These are the dishes that make Thanksgiving feel like Thanksgiving to me. Good old-fashioned food made with love.

I hope a few of these become traditions in your family, too.

Happy Thanksgiving, y’all!
Love, Tamela ♡