If you’re celebrating Thanksgiving outdoors this year, you might need to get creative about your Thanksgiving feast. Just because your holiday will be a little non-traditional doesn’t mean you need to give up on all your Thanksgiving favorites!
If you’re booking a Cabana for your Thanksgiving festivities, the outdoor kitchen add-on is about to be your best friend. Here are 3 stovetop recipes that are easy, require few ingredients, and will satisfy your Thanksgiving cravings:
Thanksgiving Fav #1: Mashed Potatoes and Gravy
Mashed potatoes are so simple yet such an important part of a Thanksgiving meal. With a pot for potatoes and a pot for a simple gravy, you’ll have no problem whipping up this classic in your Cabana!
If you’re a gravy connoisseur, don’t be offended by the use of a gravy packet! This is outdoor cooking, remember? We’re looking for few ingredients and fewer dirty dishes.
Ingredients for potatoes:
- Peeled, quartered potatoes
- Butter
- Milk/cream
- Salt & pepper
- Optional add ons: garlic, thyme
Utensils to bring:
- Potato masher
- Vegetable peeler
The simple steps:
- Boil potatoes and thoroughly drain.
- Mash potatoes until no lumps remain.
- Add butter and milk gradually to achieve desired consistency.
- Add salt and pepper to taste (and any other flavorings you like!).
Ingredients for gravy:
- Gravy mix pack
- Water
The simple steps (Follow gravy packet instructions, which usually involve the following):
- Bring combined water and gravy mix to a boil.
- Simmer about 1 minute.
Thanksgiving Fav #2: Cranberry Sauce
This is another staple that requires few ingredients and even less cooking talent. You can easily customize the flavor with your favorite spices or additional fruits, but the simple recipe makes for a delicious side dish or topping.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- Optional add ons: cinnamon, nutmeg, orange zest
The simple steps:
- Add equal parts sugar and water with cranberries in a pot. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes or until most cranberries have burst.
- Mix in any extras.
- Let cool, transfer to a bowl to refrigerate.
Thanksgiving Fav #3: Mac & Cheese
This one-pot mac & cheese is a creamy, cozy game changer. It’s easy to make, easy to serve, and as with most camping favorites, it’s all in one pot. You will need to reserve a substantial amount of fridge space for this recipe, but it’s worth the refrigerator real estate.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound orecchiette
- 4 cups whole milk
- 3 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup cream cheese
- 3 cups grated cheddar cheese
- Salt & pepper
The simple steps:
- Bring orecchiette, milk, salt and pepper to a boil.
- Stir occasionally until liquid has thickened and pasta is tender.
- Stir in butter, cream cheese, and cheddar cheese, mixing until melted.
- Serve and enjoy!
With these familiar favorites, even the most unconventional holiday celebration will feel more like home. Wherever your holiday travels take you, have a safe and happy Thanksgiving!