Thanksgiving Dinner Recipes for First-Timers

Cooking turkey in an oven bag is a virtually fool-proof method for a moist and juicy Thanksgiving turkey. Easy and practically mess-free (just gather up the bag and throw it out), this is the perfect turkey recipe for beginners.

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Sure, you could use cranberry sauce from a can, but this recipe is so easy, why would you? It has just four ingredients and can be made days in advance.

Sweet potatoes are microwaved, then mixed with butter, brown sugar, crushed pineapple, cinnamon and nutmeg, then topped with mini marshmallows in this crowd-pleasing side dish recipe.

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This easy, 6-ingredient Jello mold is not only a classic, it's perfect for Thanksgiving newbies because you can make the Jello in advance. And the sweet-tart cranberry flavor pairs beautifully with turkey.

This classic green bean casserole recipe is one of those recipes you just mix, dump and bake. Hint: If you want to jazz up this recipe a bit, substitute crispy onions (such as Fresh Gourmet brand) for the French fried onions.

Thanksgiving dinner recipes don't get much easier than this turkey stuffing. This recipe starts with a packaged herb stuffing mix.

This is one of those dishes that can work as a side dish or a dessert. It looks impressive and festive on the table, and it tastes light and refreshing. Don't worry - like all of these recipes, this one is easy.

The hardest part about making pumpkin pie is getting the crust right. the second hardest part is knowing when to take the pie out of the oven. This easy pumpkin pie recipe starts with a frozen crust, so you don't have to worry about that. Take it out when the pie is still slightly jiggly in the center. Then let it rest for several hours to firm up, and you will have perfect pumpkin pie.

This 5-star Thanksgiving recipe is so simple, you will want to make it all year long. Use pecan halves rather than chopped pecans for the prettiest presentation.