Why Make This Recipe
Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner is the ultimate solution for those who want to enjoy a festive meal without the hassle of multiple dishes and pots. This one-pan meal brings the flavors and spirit of Thanksgiving into a convenient, time-saving format. Not only does it save on cleanup, but it also keeps everything warm while cooking together, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Perfect for busy families or anyone who seeks simplicity, this recipe allows you to savor traditional holiday flavors while spending less time in the kitchen. Imagine a delicious roast turkey and colorful vegetables, all cooked to perfection on a single baking sheet.
Equipment Needed for Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
To prepare this delightful dish, you will need some basic kitchen equipment. Here’s what you will need:
- A large rimmed baking sheet, ideally 10×15 inches
- A cutting board
- A sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Mixing bowls for combining ingredients
- Measuring cups and spoons for accuracy
- Aluminum foil for covering the pan
What You Need to Make Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Gather the following ingredients to create your Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner:
- 2 fresh turkey thighs, legs, or medium turkey breasts (about 2 lbs; add 2 more for four people)
- 3 Tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 teaspoons lemon pepper, divided, to taste
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning, divided
- 1 medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into cubes
- 1-1/2 cups baby potatoes, halved
- 1-1/2 cups Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
- 1/4 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup sliced carrots, about 1/2" thick
- 1-1/2 cups green beans, trimmed
- 2/3 cup fresh cranberries
- 1/2 cup pecan halves
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries (optional – leave out for Whole 30)
How to Cook Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner Step by Step
To start making your Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner, first preheat your oven to 400°F. Take your turkey and season it generously with salt, lemon pepper, one teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and one tablespoon of olive oil. Once seasoned, place the turkey on a large rimmed baking sheet and roast it in the oven for about 15 minutes.
While the turkey is roasting, prepare your vegetables. Peel, wash, dry, and chop them as needed. In a large bowl, combine all the chopped vegetables and drizzle with the remaining two tablespoons of olive oil. Add salt, lemon pepper, and the remaining one teaspoon of Italian seasoning to flavor the veggies well.
After the initial roasting time, remove the sheet pan from the oven. Carefully arrange the sweet potatoes, baby potatoes, and Brussels sprouts around the turkey on the pan, ensuring they are evenly distributed. You can also add a few sprigs of fresh rosemary for an aromatic touch. Return the pan to the oven and continue roasting.
After 20 minutes, take the pan out again to flip the turkey and the vegetables for even cooking. Now, add the carrots, green beans, fresh cranberries, pecans, and dried cranberries, arranging them evenly around the turkey. Place the pan back in the oven and roast for another 15 minutes, or until the turkey fully cooks and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Once cooked, remove the pan from the oven. Cover it loosely with foil to allow everything to rest for about 10 minutes. This helps keep the turkey juicy. Finally, carve the turkey, arrange the veggies, and serve your beautiful Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner.
How to Make Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Making your Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner is straightforward. Begin by gathering all your ingredients and equipment listed above. Preheat your oven to ensure it’s hot enough for roasting. Season the turkey to enhance flavor, then roast it while you prepare the vegetables concurrently.
The mixing process of the veggies with olive oil and seasonings is crucial for a tasty dish. Making sure that the turkey and veggies are evenly distributed on the pan allows for uniform cooking. Be sure to flip them midway through the roasting time to get that sought-after golden finish.
After the total roasting time, allow your dinner to rest before serving, as this retains moisture and flavors. Your sheet pan is now complete, presenting a wholesome and visually pleasing meal.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Serving your Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner is as easy as carving the turkey and arranging the colorful vegetables on plates. You can serve it family-style, leaving the pan on the table so guests can help themselves.
Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for garnish. This not only looks appealing but adds an extra touch of flavor. Pair the meal with crusty bread or rolls to complete the dining experience.
What to Serve with Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner is a complete meal on its own, but you might want to complement it with some traditional sides. Here are a few suggestions:
- Creamy mashed potatoes or sweet potato mash
- Homemade cranberry sauce
- Green salad with vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast
- Stuffing or dressing, made from your favorite recipe
- Pumpkin or pecan pie for dessert
How to Store Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
If you have leftovers from your Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner, it’s important to store them properly. Allow the food to cool down to room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers. This helps to prevent moisture buildup, which can make the food soggy.
The meal can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing portions in freezer-safe containers. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply reheat in the oven or microwave.
Tips to Make Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
To ensure the best results for your Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner, here are some handy tips:
- Make sure the turkey is at room temperature before roasting. This helps it cook more evenly.
- Cutting the vegetables to similar sizes ensures that they cook at the same rate.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan with vegetables. Leave some space for air circulation, ensuring each piece roasts nicely.
- Use cooking spray or parchment paper on your baking sheet to prevent sticking.
- Feel free to adjust veggies according to your preferences or what’s in season.
Variation
If you want to put a twist on the traditional flavors, try substituting proteins like chicken thighs or pork tenderloin. You can also mix and match vegetables based on what you have at home. Adding seasonal vegetables such as squash or different root vegetables can also provide a unique taste.
Best Time to Make Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner
Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner is perfect for any time of the year, especially during the fall and winter when cozy meals are in high demand. However, it shines during the Thanksgiving holiday when families gather and enjoy festive meals.
Also, it’s a great option for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy delicious home-cooked food with less fuss.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While preparing Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner, avoid these common pitfalls:
- Forgetting to preheat the oven, which can lead to uneven cooking.
- Overcrowding the sheet pan can result in steaming rather than roasting.
- Not allowing the turkey to rest, which can lead to dry meat.
- Using vegetables that cook at different times, leading to mushy or burnt veggies.
Nutritional Notes
This Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner is a balanced meal combining lean protein from turkey and a variety of colorful vegetables. It’s not only satisfying but also packed with nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from the produce. Using healthy fats like olive oil enhances flavors without unnecessary calories.
FAQs
Can I substitute the turkey with chicken?
Yes! Chicken can work great in this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as chicken thighs or breasts may have different cooking requirements.
What vegetables can I use instead of Brussels sprouts?
Feel free to substitute with vegetables like zucchini, cauliflower, or even bell peppers, allowing for variation based on what you love.
Can I prep this meal in advance?
Absolutely! You can chop the vegetables and season the turkey the night before. Just keep everything covered in the refrigerator until you are ready to cook.
Conclusion
Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner combines ease and flavor, crafting a meal that makes holiday dining enjoyable without unnecessary work. It provides the warmth of a traditional meal while fitting seamlessly into a busy schedule.
With a variety of vegetables and succulent turkey, it’s a feast that brings families together. Plus, the one-pan aspect means less cleanup, allowing you to truly savor the holiday spirit. Enjoy this delightful dish for Thanksgiving and beyond!
