Maybe you're passing on the big Thanksgiving gathering again this year—maybe you never did the big Thanksgiving in the first place. Whether you're keeping it small as always or you're used to cooking for a dozen out-of-town relatives and wondering how to adapt, consider this menu your roadmap. It forgoes a whole turkey in favor of luscious turkey legs; calls for a skillet of stuffing rather than a big pan; and keeps dessert modest with a single (but dual-flavored) pie. And while it's meant to feed four to six people comfortably, take heart—this menu still leaves a little room for leftovers.
Head this way to find our full slate of Thanksgiving recipes and ideas.
Snacks (and Drinks) for While You Cook
Keep the starters light, simple, and crunchy—you'll really want to save your appetite for the turkey that's coming. To sip: an easy, savory three-ingredient cocktail that's perfect for fall.
Turkey (But Not a Whole Bird)
We'll let you in a secret: No matter what size your group is, turkeys are better when they're not roasted whole. But a small Thanksgiving is a great excuse to focus on just one part of the bird. That could mean just the breast (this recipe serves four and is easily doubled), but this year we're feeling this fall-apart turkey confit, which uses only the legs, and its salsa macha-inspired sauce.
On the Side
Pick just one or cook them all—only you know how many leftovers you like to have around.
Dessert
If you're baking just one pie, it might as well have the best features of classic pumpkin, plus the perfect candied pecan pie topping.
