10 Minnesota Must-Haves for the Thanksgiving Table

Thanksgiving is a day for gathering with friends and family, some backyard football, a little wine, celebrating, gratitude, a few NFL games, and a traditional family feast.

This is absolutely the best time of the year. As much as I love summer in Minnesota; the holiday season is at the top of my favorites. Family, fun, football, food, festivities, and a little winter weather. It's simple the best.

As we gather for Thanksgiving for another year, we remember our family members that are no longer at the table, and give thanks for all that we have to be grateful for.

Here are the tried and true ten must-haves for a Minnesota Thanksgiving dinner. Eat, drink, be merry & thankful.

Turkey

No brainer right? There's no room for a ham on my Thanksgiving table. Turducken? Maybe. Roast, grill, deep fry. Up to you. Are you a dark or light meat kinda person?

Dressing or Stuffing

Stuffing goes in the bird. Dressing goes in the pan. Awesome either way. There are a million different recipes, but this is a must-have on my plate.

Mashed Potatoes

No real explanation needed here. Lots of ways to make 'em. One way to eat 'em. With butter and gravy. Next.

Green Bean Casserole

This is the one think my family asks me to bring. I found a recipe for Slow-Cooker Green Bean Casserole, and they beg for it every year that we're not hosting. Here's the recipe.

Pumpkin Pie

There's nothing better than a delicious homemade pie, except for maybe Costco's monster sized, fabulous pumpkin pie for just $5.99. Seriously? Ten pies for $60? Everyone could have their own.

Cranberry Sauce

Here's the hole in my personal Minnesota Thanksgiving persona. I have never found the joy of cranberries. My mom usually forgot them in the microwave, so no worries for me.

Dinner Rolls

OK, this might be good for Thanksgiving dinner, but essential for the leftover turkey sandwiches. Yes please!! The softer and squishier the better

Pecan Pie

No disrespect to the pumpkin pie lovers, but this the pie that lives in my heart. Pecan. Freakin. Pie. Seconds please (with a scoop of vanilla).

Jello Salad with Shredded Carrots

Um, really? And ,mayonnaise on top? I'm from Minnesota, but we scare me with this one a bit. Maybe this list should have been 'nine things.'

Cheesy Potatoes

Okay, these help me overlook our jello salad issues. The more cheesy potatoes the better, for any holiday (or any day of the year).