The Ultimate Thanksgiving (The Old Kitchen)

Nathan's favorite Thanksgiving plan: a brined turkey, Grandma's stuffing, a real gravy and a pile of mashed potatoes.

It’s our favorite time of the year to be a cook. Together, these recipes make what I think is the ultimate Thanksgiving. Follow this plan and you won’t be disappointed. — Nathan

Turkey

For the best turkey you have ever tasted, remember two things: brining rules, and stuffing (inside the bird) is evil. Dressing is another story. Start with Alton Brown’s Good Eats Roast Turkey, or try my preferred bird, the Honey Brined Smoked Turkey.

Dressing

Grandma’s Stuffing. Some day I hope the whole world will make dressing this way.

Gravy

My Giblet and Wine Gravy, or Alton Brown’s Best Gravy Ever.

Mashed potatoes

Creamy Mashed Potatoes if you like them rich, or Mashed Potatoes with Blue Cheese and Port-Caramelized Onions for something fancier. Sweet potato fans: Chipotle Smashed Sweet Potatoes.

Green beans

The Best Ever Green Bean Casserole.

The day after

Turn the carcass into stock with Alton Brown’s method: see Turkey Stock.