Get ready to spice up your Turkey Day celebration with these 20 mouth-watering Cajun recipes! From traditional dishes like roasted turkey and gumbo, to creative twists on classic sides like mashed potatoes and green beans, we’ve got you covered. And don’t worry if you’re not familiar with the bold flavors of Cajun cuisine – these recipes are designed to be easy to make and accessible to cooks of all skill levels.
Whether you’re looking for a main course that’s sure to impress your guests or some tasty side dishes to round out your menu, we’ve got 20 Spicy Cajun Thanksgiving Recipes that are guaranteed to add some excitement to your holiday table. So grab your apron, put on your game face, and let the good times roll with these Cajun-inspired recipes!
Cajun Roasted Turkey with Spicy Herb Butter
Elevate your holiday meal with this bold and flavorful Cajun-inspired turkey recipe, featuring a spicy herb butter that adds a tangy kick to every bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 lb) whole turkey
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 2 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, hot sauce, oregano, garlic powder, and paprika until well combined.
3. Rub the spicy herb butter all over the turkey, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Season the turkey with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roast the turkey in a roasting pan for about 4-4 1/2 hours, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Let the turkey rest for 15-20 minutes before carving and serving.
Cooking Time: Approximately 4-4 1/2 hours
Andouille Sausage and Cornbread Stuffing
Elevate your holiday meals with this savory stuffing recipe that combines the spicy kick of Andouille sausage with the comforting warmth of cornbread. Perfect for a Thanksgiving or Christmas feast, this stuffing is sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, casings removed
– 2 cups stale white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook sausage in a skillet over medium-high heat, breaking apart with a spoon, until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. In a large bowl, combine bread, cornbread, melted butter, chopped onion, minced garlic, and cooked sausage.
4. Add poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Mix well until ingredients are evenly distributed.
6. Pour into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 30-35 minutes or until lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits Casserole
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Grits Casserole: A hearty and flavorful twist on the classic Lowcountry dish, this casserole combines spicy Cajun seasoning with succulent shrimp and creamy grits for a meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook grits according to package instructions with water and heavy cream. Stir in butter until melted.
3. In a separate pan, sauté shrimp with Cajun seasoning and paprika until pink and cooked through.
4. Combine cooked grits and shrimp mixture.
5. Transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Cajun-Style Sweet Potato Mash with Brown Sugar Glaze
Get ready to experience the bold flavors of the Bayou with this creamy sweet potato mash infused with Cajun spices and topped with a rich brown sugar glaze.
Ingredients:
– 3 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (such as Tony’s)
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place sweet potatoes on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with Cajun seasoning.
3. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. Mash sweet potatoes in a bowl with butter, heavy cream, and salt.
5. In a small saucepan, melt brown sugar over low heat.
6. Drizzle glaze over mashed sweet potatoes and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Blackened Cajun Green Beans with Bacon
Get ready to elevate your green beans game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning with the smoky goodness of crispy bacon. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss green beans with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for 12-15 minutes or until tender but still crisp.
5. Meanwhile, cook bacon pieces in a skillet over medium-high heat until crispy.
6. Remove green beans from the oven and toss with cooked bacon, garlic (if using), and any remaining Cajun seasoning.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Corn Maque Choux with Bell Peppers
This classic Cajun side dish is a flavorful blend of sweet corn, smoky bacon, and tangy bell peppers. Perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a veggie-packed snack.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large red bell pepper, diced
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium-high heat until crispy.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stir in corn kernels, red bell pepper, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and dot with butter.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors are fully incorporated and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole-Style Cajun Gumbo with Turkey and Okra
This hearty gumbo recipe combines the rich flavors of turkey, okra, and a blend of spices for a truly authentic Cajun dish. Serve over rice for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced okra
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp filé powder (optional)
– Cooked white rice, for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add turkey and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in okra, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve gumbo over cooked white rice.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your side dish game with this bold and flavorful recipe that combines the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts with the spicy kick of Cajun seasonings.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper (if using). Season with salt and pepper.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring occasionally.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Jambalaya-Stuffed Bell Peppers for Thanksgiving
This recipe combines the flavors of jambalaya with the convenience of stuffed bell peppers, making it a unique and delicious addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked jambalaya (use leftover or make according to package instructions)
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together jambalaya, rice, and scallions.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the jambalaya mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Place stuffed peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
7. Optional: Top with shredded cheddar cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cajun Crawfish and Cornbread Dressing
This recipe combines the classic comfort of cornbread dressing with the spicy kick of Cajun crawfish, perfect for a hearty holiday meal or special occasion. The combination of crispy fried onions, tangy crawfish, and savory cornbread is sure to become a new family tradition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread, crumbled
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound crawfish tails
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add crawfish, Cajun seasoning, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir until combined.
4. Combine cornbread mixture with the crawfish mixture.
5. Transfer to a baking dish and top with additional crispy fried onions (optional).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until lightly golden.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Cajun Turkey Gravy with Andouille Sausage
This flavorful gravy combines the richness of turkey drippings with the spicy kick of Cajun seasoning and the smoky depth of Andouille sausage. Perfect for serving over roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or biscuits.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey drippings
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup Andouille sausage, crumbled
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Sprinkle flour over the mixture; cook for 1 minute.
3. Gradually whisk in turkey drippings, Cajun seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes or until thickened.
5. Stir in crumbled Andouille sausage.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun-Style Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze
This recipe adds a spicy kick to traditional roasted carrots, perfect for a flavorful side dish or snack. The honey glaze provides a sweet and sticky contrast to the bold Cajun seasoning.
Ingredients:
– 4 large carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons honey
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss carrots with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until well coated.
3. Spread the carrot mixture onto a baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until carrots are tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through.
5. While carrots are roasting, mix honey with 1 tablespoon of water in a small bowl.
6. After carrots have roasted for 15 minutes, brush the honey glaze all over them.
7. Return to oven and roast for an additional 5-10 minutes or until the glaze is sticky and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creole Cornbread with Jalapeños and Cheddar
This spicy twist on classic cornbread combines the warmth of Creole seasoning with the bold flavors of jalapeños and cheddar cheese. Perfect for a hearty snack or side dish, this recipe is sure to delight.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon Creole seasoning
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 3/4 cup whole milk
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 jalapeños, diced (about 1/4 cup)
– Honey or maple syrup for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, baking powder, Creole seasoning, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, milk, eggs, and cheese. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and stir until just combined.
5. Fold in diced jalapeños.
6. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey or maple syrup, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Pecan Pie with Bourbon Glaze
Add a spicy twist to the classic pecan pie with this Cajun-Spiced Pecan Pie recipe, featuring a rich bourbon glaze. This unique dessert is perfect for those who like a little heat in their sweets.
Ingredients:
For the crust:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cold unsalted butter, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup ice water
For the filling:
– 1 cup pecan halves
– 1/2 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted unsalted butter
– 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 egg, beaten
For the bourbon glaze:
– 1/4 cup bourbon whiskey
– 2 tablespoons powdered sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Prepare crust according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together filling ingredients until smooth.
4. Pour filling into prepared crust and bake for 45-50 minutes or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix bourbon glaze ingredients in a small bowl.
6. Remove pie from oven and drizzle with bourbon glaze.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Turkey and Andouille Sausage Gumbo
This classic Southern stew is a flavorful blend of turkey, spicy sausage, and rich vegetables, perfect for a chilly evening. With its deep, dark roux-based broth and tender meat, this gumbo is sure to warm your belly and your soul.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless turkey breast or thighs
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 stalks celery, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Brown the sausage in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onions, celery, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add the turkey, bell peppers, thyme, paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook until turkey is browned.
4. Mix in flour to make a roux, then gradually add chicken broth, whisking constantly.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
Cook Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun-Style Red Beans and Rice Side Dish
This classic Louisiana side dish is a staple of many Cajun households. With its rich, flavorful broth and creamy beans, it’s the perfect accompaniment to any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried red kidney beans, soaked overnight and drained
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the Cajun seasoning, thyme, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add the soaked red beans, chicken broth, and rice to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 6-8 hours or overnight.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Spicy Cajun Mashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter
Elevate your mashed potato game with the bold flavors of Cajun country! This spicy twist combines creamy Yukon golds with garlic butter and a kick of cayenne pepper.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh chives or scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Place potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender.
2. Drain potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, garlic, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
3. Mash with a potato masher or a fork until smooth. Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half until desired consistency is reached.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chives or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun-Spiced Pumpkin Soup with Cream
This hearty soup combines the warm spices of Cajun cuisine with the comforting sweetness of pumpkin, topped with a dollop of creamy goodness. Perfect for a chilly fall or winter evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 small to medium-sized pumpkin (about 2 lbs), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and cayenne pepper; cook for an additional minute.
3. Add pumpkin, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until pumpkin is tender.
4. Use an immersion blender or transfer soup to a blender in batches; blend until smooth.
5. Stir in heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Creole-Style Cajun Turkey Legs with Gravy
Experience the bold flavors of Louisiana with this classic Creole recipe that combines tender turkey legs with a rich, spicy gravy. Perfect for a hearty dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 turkey legs (3-4 lbs)
– 1/4 cup Cajun seasoning
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Season turkey legs with Cajun seasoning.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown turkey legs, then transfer to a baking dish.
4. Add chopped onion and garlic to the skillet; cook until softened. Stir in chicken broth, heavy cream, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour the gravy mixture over the turkey legs.
6. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until turkey is cooked through.
7. Serve hot with additional gravy spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cajun-Style Corn Pudding with Jalapeños
Get ready to ignite your taste buds with this bold and flavorful corn pudding, infused with the spicy kick of jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 large egg, beaten
– 1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped (about 1 tablespoon)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, cornmeal, salt, and black pepper.
3. Add grated cheese, beaten egg, and chopped jalapeños; stir until combined.
4. Stir in corn kernels and melted butter.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until puffed and lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your Thanksgiving feast with these 20 mouthwatering Cajun recipes! From classic dishes like roasted turkey and mashed potatoes, to innovative twists on traditional sides and desserts, this collection has something for everyone. Try Cajun-roasted turkey with spicy herb butter, Andouille sausage-stuffed cornbread, or spicy Cajun shrimp and grits casserole. For dessert, indulge in Cajun-spiced pecan pie with bourbon glaze or Creole-style cornbread with jalapeños and cheddar. These bold and flavorful recipes will add a little excitement to your holiday table.
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