Diabetic Thanksgiving Day Menu and Recipes

A Thanksgiving you can enjoy—and feel good after

You don’t have to choose between celebration and steady glucose. This full menu focuses on protein, non‑starchy vegetables, and classic flavors. We swap sugar‑heavy sides for satisfying, low‑carb alternatives, and we plan portions so you can enjoy favorites without the crash.

Herb‑Butter Roast Turkey

Whole turkey
Butter, garlic, thyme, rosemary, lemon zest, salt, pepper

Loosen the skin over breast and thighs. Spread herb butter under the skin and over the surface. Roast at 325°F until the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F, basting occasionally.

Cauliflower‑Celery Root Mash

Cauliflower florets, celery root cubes, butter, cream or broth, salt, pepper

Boil until tender; drain well. Mash with butter and a splash of cream or broth. Season generously.

Green Beans with Almonds and Lemon

Green beans, olive oil, sliced almonds, lemon zest, garlic

Blanch beans, then sauté in olive oil with garlic; finish with toasted almonds and lemon zest.

Sausage and Mushroom Stuffing (No Bread)

Italian sausage, mushrooms, onions, celery, eggs, herbs

Brown sausage; sauté vegetables; combine with beaten eggs and herbs; bake until set.

Cranberry‑Orange Relish (Low Sugar)

Fresh cranberries, orange zest and segments, allulose or stevia, pinch of salt

Simmer cranberries with a little water and sweetener until they burst; fold in orange and chill.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Bacon

Brussels sprouts, bacon, olive oil, salt, pepper

Roast at 400°F until caramelized; toss with crisp bacon.

Gravy Without the Flour

Pan drippings, chicken stock, butter; thicken with reduction and a knob of butter

Reduce drippings with stock until slightly thick; whisk in butter to finish.

Dessert: Cheesecake Cups

Cream cheese, eggs, lemon zest, vanilla, sweetener; walnut crust

Press walnut crust into muffin tins; fill with cheesecake batter; bake until just set.

Make‑ahead timeline

Two days before: Cranberry relish; chop vegetables; mix herb butter.
Day before: Bake cheesecake cups; prep stuffing mix; par‑cook green beans.
Morning of: Roast turkey; finish sides; set up a protein‑first appetizer plate (cheese, olives, nuts, salami).

Plate strategy

Start with turkey and a large scoop of vegetables. Add a spoon of stuffing and a spoon of mash. Taste dessert slowly and stop when satisfied. Take a 10‑minute walk after the meal for a pleasant finish and steadier glucose.