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Thanksgiving, beyond its historical roots, has become a symbol of gratitude, togetherness, and the joy of sharing a bountiful meal. The act of breaking bread together fosters a sense of unity and appreciation for life’s blessings. In the spirit of inclusivity, I wanted to create a Thanksgiving dinner that doesn’t break the bank, AND, is affordable for ALL families. This $25 dinner, designed for 3-5 people, emphasizes affordable ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
Please note that the $25 recipe provides a budget-friendly foundation, and the addition of spices or variations in ingredient prices may impact the overall cost. Feel free to get creative and tailor the recipe to your preferences, ensuring both affordability and culinary inspiration. Prices may vary by location.
What can you make $25
- Stewed Turkey Legs:
Succulent turkey legs slow-cooked in a flavorful herb-infused broth, a Thanksgiving classic that’s both tender and tasty. - Green Bean Casserole:
Crisp green beans in a velvety mushroom soup, topped with crunchy fried onions for a savory and satisfying side. - Mashed Potatoes:
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes, the ultimate comfort food to complement any Thanksgiving feast. - Gravy:
Rich, savory elixir made from pan drippings, stock, and herbs, elevating every dish with its liquid gold essence. - Cranberry Sauce:
Sweet and tart cranberries with a hint of orange zest, a vibrant sauce that adds a refreshing kick to the meal. - Stuffing:
A blend of seasoned bread cubes, herbs, and vegetables baked to golden perfection, bringing a comforting taste to the table. - Bread (Cornbread, Rolls):
Freshly baked cornbread or soft rolls, warm and inviting companions to complete the Thanksgiving spread.
$25 Thanksgiving Dinner
Turkey legs, green bean casserole, mash potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, cornbread
Ingredients
For the Turkey Legs
- 3 Turkey legs
- 2 tbsps flour
- 1 tbsps butter or oil
- 2 tsps salt
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tsp pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- any additional spices you may like
For the Mash Potato
- 1 box Mash Potato
- 1 cup hot milk
- 3 tbsps butter
- 3 tsps salt
- 3 tsps garlic powder
- 1 tsp salt
- fresh herbs optional
Green Bean Casserole
- 1 bag fresh green beans
- 1 can Campbells cream of mushroom
- 1 bag fried onions
- 2 tsps salt
- 1 tsp pepper
Stuffing
- 1 box Stuffing
- 2/ 1/2 cups hot chicken broth
- 1/2 cup celery diced optional
Gravy
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups hot broth
- 2 tsps salt
- 2 tsps garlic powder
- fresh herbs to taste optional
Cornbread or Rolls
- 1 pack cornbead or rolls
- 2 tbsps butter
Instructions
For the Turkey Legs
- Preheat your oven to 375°F. Rinse and pat dry turkey legs. In a shallow dish, mix flour, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and paprika. Dip each turkey leg in melted butter, then coat in the seasoned flour mixture. Arrange them in a baking dish. Pour chicken broth into the dish. Bake until the internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting the turkey legs occasionally. In the last 10-15 minutes, sprinkle chopped fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme, or sage) for extra flavor. Once golden brown and crispy, let them rest before serving. Enjoy your affordable and flavorful baked turkey legs!
For the Mash Potatoes
- Prepare instant mashed potatoes according to the box instructions. Add unsalted butter to the hot potatoes, then gradually pour in milk while stirring. Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices to taste, achieving your desired consistency. Enjoy creamy and flavorful mashed potatoes in just a few simple steps!
For the Green Bean Casserole
- Blanch 1 pound of fresh green beans and preheat the oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix 1 can of cream of mushroom soup with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Layer the blanched green beans in a greased baking dish, pour the mushroom mixture over them, top with fried onions, and bake for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden brown. Enjoy the delicious freshness and comforting flavors of your homemade green bean casserole!
For the Gravy
- Melt 1/4 cup of unsalted butter in a saucepan over medium heat, whisk in 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour to create a roux, and cook until it turns a light golden color. Slowly pour in 2 cups of hot chicken broth, whisking continuously to avoid lumps, and bring to a simmer. *You can also use the drippings from the turkey to add more flavor* Season with salt, pepper, and optional spices, simmer until the gravy thickens to your liking, then serve this simple and flavorful buttery chicken gravy over your favorite dishes.
For the Stuffing
- Prepare the stuffing mix according to the box instructions. Sauté finely chopped onion and celery in butter until softened, adding fresh herbs if desired. Combine the sautéed aromatics with the stuffing, moisten with chicken or vegetable broth, season to taste, and serve as a delightful side dish for any occasion.
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