Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table to share love, laughter, and, of course, a delicious meal. While turkey and ham are classic centerpieces, there’s plenty of room to put your own spin on the holiday spread. Whether you’re hosting for the first time or a seasoned pro looking to mix things up, this guide has you covered. Here are some tips for preparing the best turkey and ham, along with recipes for unique main course alternatives—including vegetarian and vegan options.

Turkey Tips: How to Roast the Perfect Bird

Start with the Brine: A brine (saltwater solution) helps keep the turkey juicy and flavorful. You can do a simple salt and sugar brine or get creative with aromatics like citrus, herbs, and spices.
Room Temperature Is Key: Before cooking, let your turkey come to room temperature to ensure even cooking.
Butter It Up: Slather butter or herb-infused olive oil under the skin for crispy, golden skin and extra flavor.
Baste Less, Rest More: Avoid opening the oven too often to baste, as this lets heat escape. Once out of the oven, rest your turkey for at least 30 minutes before carving.
Invest in a Meat Thermometer: The thickest part of the breast should read 165°F, and the thigh should reach 175°F.

Ham Tips: Glazing for Greatness

Choose the Right Ham: Bone-in hams tend to have the most flavor, but spiral-cut hams are convenient and easy to serve.
Score the Surface: Lightly cut a diamond pattern on the surface of the ham to allow the glaze to penetrate.
Don’t Skimp on Glaze: Whether you go for honey mustard, brown sugar, or maple, brush your ham generously every 15–20 minutes for a sticky, caramelized finish.
Keep It Moist: Cook your ham with a little liquid (like orange juice or apple cider) in the roasting pan and cover it with foil until the last 20 minutes.

Beyond Turkey and Ham: Alternative Main Course Ideas

If you’re ready to break tradition or accommodate dietary needs, try one of these alternative Thanksgiving main dishes. They’ll shine just as brightly as the classics!

1. Herb-Crusted Prime Rib

For a beefy centerpiece that wows, prime rib is a decadent choice.

Ingredients:

1 bone-in prime rib roast (5–6 lbs)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp coarse salt
1 tbsp black pepper

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 450°F. Rub the roast with olive oil, garlic, and herbs. Season generously with salt and pepper.
Place the roast in a roasting pan, bone-side down. Roast at 450°F for 20 minutes, then reduce the oven temperature to 325°F.
Cook until the internal temperature reaches 130°F for medium rare (about 2 hours). Rest for 30 minutes before slicing.

2. Maple-Glazed Salmon

A lighter option with a sweet and savory twist.

Ingredients:

4 salmon fillets
1/4 cup maple syrup
2 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp minced garlic

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 400°F. In a small bowl, mix maple syrup, mustard, soy sauce, and garlic.
Place salmon on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush with glaze.
Bake for 12–15 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily with a fork.

3. Stuffed Acorn Squash (Vegetarian/Vegan)

A stunning, hearty main dish for plant-based eaters.

Ingredients:

2 acorn squash, halved and seeds removed
1 cup quinoa, cooked
1/2 cup dried cranberries
1/2 cup chopped walnuts
1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp ground cinnamon
2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 375°F. Brush squash halves with olive oil, sprinkle with cinnamon, and roast for 30 minutes.
In a bowl, mix cooked quinoa, cranberries, walnuts, parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Fill each squash half with the quinoa mixture and bake for another 15 minutes.

4. Roast Duck with Orange Sauce

Duck adds a touch of elegance to your table.

Ingredients:

1 whole duck (4–5 lbs)
1/4 cup orange marmalade
2 tbsp soy sauce
1 tbsp honey
1 tsp grated ginger

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 425°F. Prick the skin of the duck with a fork (to release fat) and pat dry.
Roast duck for 15 minutes, then reduce heat to 350°F and cook for about 2 hours, or until golden brown.
In a saucepan, combine marmalade, soy sauce, honey, and ginger. Simmer until thickened. Brush the sauce over the duck before serving

5. Lentil Loaf (Vegan)

A hearty and flavorful vegan alternative to meatloaf.

Ingredients:

1 cup cooked lentils
1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
1/2 cup grated carrots
1/4 cup diced onion
2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water (egg substitute)
1/4 cup ketchup
1 tsp smoked paprika

Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350°F. In a bowl, mix all ingredients until well combined.
Press the mixture into a greased loaf pan. Spread ketchup on top for a glaze.
Bake for 45 minutes. Let cool slightly before slicing.

With these tips and recipes, your Thanksgiving main course is sure to be a hit. Whether you stick with tradition or embrace something new, remember that the real star of the day is the joy of gathering with loved ones. From juicy turkey to vegan lentil loaf, there’s something here to make every guest feel welcome and satisfied.