Pear Ricotta Crostini with Honey and Thyme

Only have a few moments to pull something together? Ten minutes is all it takes to make these tasty and elegant appetizers. “They’re the just-right (maybe even last-minute?) addition to your Thanksgiving spread or holiday table because they’re in your face in under 10 minutes—maaaaybe even 5 if you’re an efficient slicer of pears and your broiler kicks ass,” said The Pig & Quill.

Turkey Crudite

There are veggie plates and then there are VEGGIE PLATES. This tutorial will help you fashion your carrots and such into something memorable. 

Herb-Brined Cornish Game Hens

Ditch that unwieldy turkey and make Cornish game hens instead. It makes a beautiful presentation, and everybody gets their own self-contained bird. “Instead of a turkey or a big roast, why not serve individual Cornish game hens for the holidays? They cook in a fraction of the time and they're guaranteed to impress all your guests,” said Taste of Home.

Classic Pork Crown Roast

Want to really impress your friends and family? This Classic Pork Crown Roast will have them thinking Martha Stewart is hiding in your kitchen. Don't be scared by the total time of 10 hours and 40 minutes; Only 45 minutes of that is active time. 

Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a staple of the holiday table, but that doesn’t mean they have to be boring. “You haven't had mashed potatoes until you've made them with browned butter,” said Delish.

Christmas Reindeer Brownies

We love this adorable sweet. “Candy canes, marshmallows and wafer cookies turn fudgy brownies into a festive holiday dessert,” said the Food Network. “These brownies are so easy the kids can help make them!” In fact, why not turn dessert into family fun time by showing up with all the ingredients and making them together!

Salted Caramel Pie

If Food & Wine calls a pie “supereasy” and a “caramel lovers' dream,” you should probably make it.