Cast Iron Thanksgiving Recipes: Cooking Up Tradition

Thanksgiving is a time for bringing family and friends together to celebrate gratitude and share a delicious meal. This year, why not add a touch of tradition to your Thanksgiving feast by incorporating the timeless charm of cast iron cooking? The robust and even heat distribution of cast iron pans makes them perfect for creating mouthwatering dishes that will leave your guests asking for seconds. Let’s dive into some Cast Iron Thanksgiving Recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.

1. Cast Iron Roasted Turkey:Ingredients:
   • 1 whole turkey (12-15 pounds)
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   • 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
   • 2 teaspoons dried thyme
   • 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
   • 2 teaspoons garlic powder
   Instructions:
   1. Preheat your oven to 325°F (163°C).
   2. Season the turkey with salt and pepper, both inside and out.
   3. Mix melted butter, thyme, rosemary, and garlic powder in a bowl.
   4. Brush the turkey with the butter and herb mixture.
   5. Place the turkey in a preheated cast iron skillet and roast in the oven until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   6. Allow the turkey to rest for 15-20 minutes before carving.
2. Cast Iron Cornbread Stuffing:Ingredients:
   • 8 cups cornbread, cubed
   • 1/2 cup unsalted butter
   • 1 large onion, finely chopped
   • 3 celery stalks, diced
   • 2 cloves garlic, minced
   • 1 teaspoon dried sage
   • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
   • 2 cups chicken broth
   • Salt and pepper to taste
   Instructions:
   1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
   2. In a cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
   3. Sauté onions, celery, and garlic until softened.
   4. Stir in sage and thyme, then add the cornbread cubes, tossing to combine.
   5. Pour chicken broth over the mixture and season with salt and pepper.
   6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
3. Cast Iron Pumpkin Pie with Pecan Crust:Ingredients:
   • 1 1/2 cups pecans1/4 cup sugar1/4 cup melted butter1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin puree3/4 cup brown sugar2 teaspoons ground cinnamon1 teaspoon ground ginger1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg1/4 teaspoon salt3 large eggs1 cup evaporated milk
   Instructions:
   1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   2. In a cast iron skillet, combine pecans, sugar, and melted butter to create the crust. Press firmly into the bottom.
   3. In a bowl, whisk together pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.
   4. Add eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition.
   5. Gradually mix in the evaporated milk until smooth.
   6. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the pecan crust in the cast iron skillet.
   7. Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the center is set.
   8. Allow the pie to cool before serving.

These Cast Iron Thanksgiving recipes are sure to infuse your holiday feast with a rich, hearty flavor that will have everyone coming back for more. Enjoy the warmth and nostalgia of cooking with cast iron as you create new traditions and lasting memories with your loved ones.

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