Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner: 7 Reasons to Love It

November 4, 2025

By:

Julia marin

Oh, let me tell you about my absolute favorite way to celebrate Thanksgiving without all the fuss! This *sheet pan thanksgiving dinner* is a game changer. Picture this: all the delicious flavors of a traditional Thanksgiving feast, but with minimal effort and mess. I love how everything cooks together on one pan, making cleanup a breeze—more time with family, right? The aroma of roasted turkey mingling with Brussels sprouts and carrots fills the kitchen, and trust me, it’s a smell that just screams holiday cheer. Plus, it’s so easy to customize with your favorite seasonal veggies! This recipe captures the essence of Thanksgiving, allowing you to enjoy the moment and the company of loved ones without getting lost in the kitchen. It’s all about simplicity and togetherness, and you’re going to love it!

Ingredients for Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 whole turkey breast (4-5 lbs): Make sure to choose a nice, juicy turkey breast. This will be the star of your dinner!
2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved: Fresh Brussels sprouts add a lovely earthy flavor—don’t skip these!
3 cups carrots, peeled and chopped: Sweet and colorful, these carrots bring a pop of brightness to the dish.
2 cups potatoes, cubed: I like to use Yukon Gold or red potatoes for their creamy texture when roasted.
1 onion, quartered: A sweet onion works wonders here, adding depth to the overall flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced: Because let’s be real, garlic makes everything better!
1/4 cup olive oil: This will help everything roast beautifully and add a rich flavor.
1 tablespoon dried thyme: A classic herb that pairs perfectly with turkey and veggies.
1 tablespoon dried rosemary: For that aromatic touch that says “holiday season!”
Salt and pepper to taste: Don’t forget to season! It really brings out all the flavors.

How to Prepare Your Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

Preheating and Preparing Ingredients

First things first, let’s get that oven preheated to 400°F (200°C). This is key for roasting everything evenly and getting that delicious golden brown on your turkey. While that’s heating up, grab a large bowl and combine your Brussels sprouts, carrots, potatoes, onion, and garlic with the olive oil, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Give it a good toss until everything is nicely coated—this is where the flavors really start to come together!

Arranging the Sheet Pan

Now, it’s time to set up your sheet pan! Place the turkey breast right in the center of the pan—this is its moment to shine! Then, surround it with your beautifully seasoned veggies. I like to spread them out a bit to ensure they roast evenly. Don’t crowd the turkey too much; give it some space to breathe. You want everything to have room to caramelize and get that lovely roasted flavor!

Roasting Process

Pop that sheet pan into the preheated oven and let it roast for about 1.5 hours. You’ll want to check the turkey’s internal temperature with a meat thermometer—aim for 165°F (74°C) to ensure it’s perfectly cooked and safe to eat. It’s okay if the veggies get a little crispy; that just adds to their deliciousness!

Resting and Serving

Once the turkey hits that magic temperature, take it out of the oven and let it rest for about 10-15 minutes. This resting period is super important—it helps the juices redistribute, making each slice tender and juicy. When you’re ready to serve, slice that turkey and arrange it on a platter with those gorgeous roasted veggies. Trust me, the presentation will make everyone at the table feel like they’re at a festive feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This *sheet pan Thanksgiving dinner* is truly a lifesaver when it comes to holiday cooking! First off, the quick preparation time means you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the company of your loved ones. Seriously, who doesn’t love that?

Plus, minimal cleanup is a huge win. With everything cooked on one pan, there’s hardly any mess to deal with afterward—just a simple rinse and you’re done! It’s perfect for those bustling holiday days when you want to keep things stress-free.

And let’s not forget about the flavors! The combination of herbs, roasted turkey, and seasonal veggies creates a meal that’s both flavorful and nutritious. You get all the comfort food vibes without the guilt.

This recipe is also perfect for family gatherings. Everyone can dig in together, and there’s just something so cozy about sharing a meal that looks and tastes like a Thanksgiving feast. You’ll find that it brings everyone closer, making those special moments even more memorable!

Tips for Success

Alright, let’s make sure your *sheet pan Thanksgiving dinner* turns out just as delicious as you envision! I’ve got some pro tips that will help you avoid any hiccups along the way.

Choose the right turkey breast: Look for a fresh or properly thawed turkey breast; frozen ones can release excess water while cooking, which may affect your veggies.
Cut veggies evenly: Make sure your Brussels sprouts, carrots, and potatoes are cut into similar sizes. This ensures they cook at the same rate. No one wants crunchy carrots while the turkey is perfectly roasted!
Don’t skip the seasoning: It’s tempting to go light on the salt and pepper, but don’t hold back! Proper seasoning is what brings the whole dish to life. Taste your veggies before they hit the oven if you’re unsure!
Check the turkey early: Ovens can vary, so it’s a good idea to start checking the turkey’s internal temperature around the 1-hour mark. You want to catch it right at 165°F (74°C) for juicy, tender meat.
Let it rest: Seriously, don’t skip the resting time! This is crucial for juicy turkey slices. If you cut into it too soon, all those lovely juices will run out, and nobody wants dry turkey.
Customize your veggies: Feel free to mix and match your favorite seasonal vegetables! Sweet potatoes, parsnips, or even green beans can be great additions. Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you add something that takes longer to roast.
Save those leftovers: This dinner is perfect for leftovers! Use any extra turkey in sandwiches, salads, or soups. It’s a great way to keep the Thanksgiving spirit alive long after the holiday!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’ll be set for a fantastic and stress-free Thanksgiving dinner. Happy cooking!

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a delicious *sheet pan Thanksgiving dinner*, it’s nice to know what you’re putting on your plate! Here’s a general breakdown of the typical nutritional values per serving (about 1/6 of the whole dinner). Keep in mind that these values might vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you choose:

Calories: 450
Fat: 20g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 15g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 80mg
Sodium: 600mg
Carbohydrates: 40g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 30g

This meal is not only hearty and satisfying, but it also packs in a good amount of protein and fiber to keep you feeling full and happy! Enjoy every bite, knowing it’s a wholesome feast that still feels indulgent!

Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about the *sheet pan Thanksgiving dinner*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries that come up, along with my trusty answers.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! If turkey isn’t your thing, you can swap it out for chicken breasts or thighs. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as chicken might cook a bit faster or slower depending on the cut you choose. You could even use a whole roast chicken if you’re feeling adventurous!

What vegetables can I substitute?
Feel free to get creative with your veggie choices! Sweet potatoes, parsnips, green beans, or even cauliflower would all work beautifully. Just remember to cut them into similar sizes so they roast evenly. The key is to use what you love or whatever is in season!

How do I store leftovers?
Leftovers are one of the best parts of this meal! Simply transfer any leftover turkey and veggies to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, just pop them in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or you can microwave them if you’re in a hurry. Enjoy those tasty leftovers!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

When it comes to storing your delicious *sheet pan Thanksgiving dinner*, I’ve got you covered! After you’ve savored your meal, make sure to let any leftovers cool down to room temperature before packing them away. This helps prevent condensation, which can make everything soggy. Transfer the turkey and veggies into an airtight container—this keeps them fresh and flavorful for days!

You can store your leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep them longer, consider freezing them! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers or bags, and they can last up to 2-3 months. Trust me, there’s nothing better than pulling out a taste of Thanksgiving when you need a cozy meal later on!

Now, when it comes to reheating, you want to maintain that delicious flavor and texture. For best results, I recommend using the oven. Preheat it to 350°F (175°C), then spread your leftovers on a baking sheet and cover them with foil to keep them from drying out. Heat them for about 20-25 minutes or until everything is warmed through. If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave individual portions, but keep an eye on them so they don’t get rubbery. A quick stir halfway through helps too!

With these simple storage and reheating tips, you’ll be enjoying those tasty Thanksgiving flavors long after the holiday is over. Happy feasting!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.