Thanksgiving Meal Ideas – Recommendations from Your Lee’s Summit Deck Builder

Thanksgiving is a time for celebration, family gatherings, and most importantly, delicious food! While many people are used to enjoying their Thanksgiving meal indoors, why not bring the feast outside? With a beautiful deck designed by your Lee’s Summit deck builder, you can create an unforgettable outdoor dining experience this holiday season. Whether you’re planning a full traditional meal or something with a modern twist, here are some Thanksgiving meal ideas that are perfect for enjoying on your deck.

1. Classic Thanksgiving Feast with a Twist

If you love the idea of sticking with traditional Thanksgiving dishes but want to try something a little different this year, consider preparing a classic feast with a twist. For example, instead of roasting your turkey in the oven, try grilling it on your outdoor deck. Grilled turkey takes on a smoky flavor that will wow your guests and bring something unique to the table. If your Lee’s Summit deck builder has installed a built-in grill or outdoor kitchen, you’ll have everything you need to pull off this meal seamlessly.

Alongside your grilled turkey, consider adding some new variations to classic sides like mashed sweet potatoes with a maple glaze or stuffing made with fresh herbs and sourdough bread. These updates to traditional dishes will impress your guests while keeping the meal familiar and comforting.

Pro Tip: Use a brine to keep your turkey moist and flavorful, especially when cooking outdoors. It also helps your turkey develop that delicious crispy skin everyone loves.

2. Outdoor Thanksgiving Brunch

If you want to do something less conventional, why not host an outdoor Thanksgiving brunch on your deck? A morning or early afternoon meal is perfect for those who want to break from the norm. You can serve dishes like pumpkin-spiced pancakes, bacon-wrapped turkey bites, and roasted butternut squash frittata. Pair these dishes with seasonal beverages like apple cider mimosas or spiced coffee to set the mood.

As your Lee’s Summit deck builder, we recommend incorporating outdoor heaters or fire pits into your deck’s design for added warmth during a fall brunch. This allows you and your guests to enjoy the crisp air without feeling the chill, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

Brunch Tip: You can also set up a DIY waffle or pancake bar on your deck, letting guests add their favorite toppings like fresh berries, whipped cream, and syrup.

3. Grilled Thanksgiving Sides

Your deck offers the perfect space for outdoor cooking, so why not take advantage of it by grilling some of your favorite Thanksgiving sides? Vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, and sweet potatoes can all be easily grilled for a flavorful side dish. Drizzle them with olive oil, sprinkle on your favorite herbs, and let the grill do the rest. Grilled vegetables add a smoky flavor that perfectly complements the main course.

Another delicious grilled side is corn on the cob. For a fall twist, brush the corn with a garlic and herb butter and wrap it in foil before placing it on the grill. You can even finish it with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for an added layer of flavor.

Deck Tip: Ask your Lee’s Summit deck builder about adding a dedicated grilling station or even an outdoor kitchen to your deck, making it easier to prepare and serve meals outside.

4. Thanksgiving Appetizer Platters

When hosting Thanksgiving on your deck, it’s important to provide light appetizers for guests to enjoy while the main meal is being prepared. Charcuterie boards and appetizer platters are ideal for outdoor gatherings since they don’t require any heating. Fill your platters with seasonal cheeses, fresh fruits, cured meats, and a variety of nuts to keep your guests satisfied until the main event.

For a seasonal twist, include fall favorites like fig jam, roasted pumpkin seeds, or slices of roasted squash. This not only ties your appetizers to the Thanksgiving theme but also adds a fresh, autumnal flavor to your spread.

Pro Tip: Set up a small appetizer table on your deck, giving guests the opportunity to graze and socialize while they wait for the main course. This also keeps the kitchen less crowded, giving you more room to cook.

5. Outdoor Thanksgiving Dessert Ideas

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without dessert! If you’re hosting your meal on the deck, why not bring the desserts outside as well? Traditional pumpkin pie is always a hit, but consider adding some grilled or fire-roasted desserts for a unique twist. Grilled fruit, like peaches or apples, can be paired with vanilla ice cream or caramel sauce for a simple, yet delicious, dessert.

If your Lee’s Summit deck builder has installed a fire pit, consider setting up a s’mores station as a fun, interactive dessert option. Guests can roast their marshmallows over the fire while enjoying the cool autumn evening.

Dessert Tip: For a more elevated take on s’mores, offer gourmet options like chocolate hazelnut spread, flavored marshmallows, or peanut butter cups.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to embrace the outdoors, and with the help of your Lee’s Summit deck builder, you can create an outdoor dining experience that your family and friends will remember for years to come. From grilling the turkey to setting up cozy seating areas with heaters or fire pits, your deck offers endless possibilities for hosting an unforgettable Thanksgiving meal. Whether you stick with traditional dishes or try something new, bringing your feast outdoors adds a fresh and exciting twist to the holiday.

So this year, consider making your deck the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving celebration. With the right design and a little creativity, you’ll enjoy a memorable and delicious meal under the crisp autumn sky.

By utilizing the expertise of your Lee’s Summit deck builder, your deck will not only serve as a great entertaining space for Thanksgiving but also for all your outdoor gatherings year-round.

If you’re ready to take your deck to the next level, reach out for more tips, advice, and affordable options to make your outdoor space truly shine. Give us a call at 913-206-1974 or contact us online today! We’re eager to help you create the RIGHT deck at the RIGHT price!

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