6 Clever Small-Batch Thanksgiving Recipes

Serve a scaled-down feast without sacrificing flavor.

November 02, 2020
Thanksgiving Chicken Over Roasted Vegetables

Thanksgiving Chicken Over Roasted Vegetables

Even if you've tackled Thanksgiving dinner for years, if this is the year you cook for a smaller crowd, you probably need some pointers. Lucky for you, we've got the recipes you need. Forget figuring out how to cut your classics in half. These scaled-down recipes make planning for a smaller crowd easy, and we promise they deliver in the flavor department.

This one-pan roasted chicken (pictured above) is perfect for the host who doesn't want to tackle an entire turkey; it's also great for those who are feeding a smaller crowd and still want a juicy bird over hearty vegetables, like potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Even better, this dish takes a little over two hours to cook.

Food Network Kitchen’s Small-Batch Sweet Potato Casserole.

Food Network Kitchen’s Small-Batch Sweet Potato Casserole.

Photo by: Matt Armendariz

Matt Armendariz

You know Thanksgiving isn't complete without the sweet potatoes. Mini marshmallows and ramekins are key when it comes to making a scaled-down casserole filled with all the familiar flavors. This recipe makes four creamy potato sides with sweet, toasty marshmallows in every bite.

Food Network Kitchen’s Small-Batch Green Bean Casserole.

Food Network Kitchen’s Small-Batch Green Bean Casserole.

Photo by: Matt Armendariz

Matt Armendariz

Just because you're hosting a small crowd or feeding only your immediate family this year is no reason to skip any of sides, including the green bean casserole. Use a shallow pie plate for the best balance of veggies and crispy fried onions in every serving.

Food Network Kitchen’s Small-Batch Dinner Rolls.

Food Network Kitchen’s Small-Batch Dinner Rolls.

Photo by: Matt Armendariz

Matt Armendariz

Don't need dozens of rolls? This is the perfectly portioned recipe for you. While you will need to let the dough rise a few times, you can start the rolls a day ahead, which will make it easy to get them on the table at just the right time.

FNK APPLE COBBLER FOR TWO Food Network Kitchen Food Network Apples, Sugar, Allpurpose Flour, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Butter, Baking Powder, Fine Salt, Heavy Cream, Vanilla Ice Cream

FNK APPLE COBBLER FOR TWO Food Network Kitchen Food Network Apples, Sugar, Allpurpose Flour, Cinnamon, Nutmeg, Butter, Baking Powder, Fine Salt, Heavy Cream, Vanilla Ice Cream

Photo by: Matt Armendariz ©Copyright 2015

Matt Armendariz, Copyright 2015

You won't have to worry about dessert for days with this 5-Star cobbler recipe. Fill ramekins with cinnamon-spiced apples and top with an easy biscuit dough — and don't forget the ice cream! The individually sized desserts pair perfectly with a scoop of vanilla ice cream. We think this is the best way to finish your feast on a sweet note without having to overindulge again the following day or, worse, letting good food go to waste.

Food Nework Kitchen's Holiday One-Offs, Thanksgiving on 2 Sheet Pans

Food Nework Kitchen's Holiday One-Offs, Thanksgiving on 2 Sheet Pans

Photo by: Kate Mathis ©© 2016, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Kate Mathis, © 2016, Television Food Network, G.P. All Rights Reserved

Perhaps the quickest way to make a complete Thanksgiving dinner for four is to break out the sheet pans. You can whip up the sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, stuffing, turkey and even the cranberry sauce without dirtying every dish in the house. Fans call this recipe "super easy and delicious," and we couldn't agree more.

Related Content:

Next Up

This Clever Recipe Is How You Can Serve Dirty Martinis at Brunch

Plus five more chef-approved ways to wow your pals at your next breakfast get-together.

6 Clever Alternatives to Trick-or-Treating This Year

Your family can still have a spooky (and safe!) Halloween even if you're skipping the door-to-door routine — these creative ideas are super fun.

8 Big-Batch Recipes You Should Make for the Long Weekend

We’ve got you covered from breakfast through dessert!

Spotlight Recipes: Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Turkey may be the main attraction at your Thanksgiving feast, but everyone expects it. Add some surprise to your spread with a colorful array of veggie sides -- plus, more diversity means more vitamins and minerals.

8 Thanksgiving Meatloaf Recipes to Make This Year

Turkey meatloaf is an inexpensive alternative to roasting a whole bird.

Small Steps: Good Hydration

If you’re looking to eat healthier, completely overhauling your diet is not the answer—you’ll be back to your old habits in no time. Studies have shown that making small changes is the best way to create long-term habits. In this new series, we suggest small, easy steps you can take to a healthier you. First up: staying hydrated.

Our Test Kitchen Staffers' Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes

Food Network Kitchen chefs, stylists and recipe developers share their go-to dishes for Turkey Day.

A Fresh Batch of Celebrity Worst Cooks

Tyler Florence returns to Boot Camp to battle Anne Burrell Sunday, May 10 at 9|8c.