If there’s one appetizer that guarantees excitement at Thanksgiving, it’s a beautifully arranged Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board. I remember creating my first holiday board years ago, and it quickly became a tradition—guests gathered around, picking at cheeses, meats, fruits, and festive treats before the big meal. The beauty of this dish is its flexibility: you can load it with seasonal favorites, from cranberry cheese to roasted nuts, making it as elegant or casual as you like. It’s more than food—it’s a centerpiece for gathering and sharing.
Ingredients
Cheeses: cheddar, brie, gouda, blue cheese
Meats: prosciutto, salami, turkey slices
Crackers and breadsticks
Fruits: grapes, apple slices, dried cranberries, figs
Nuts: pecans, almonds, walnuts
Extras: cranberry sauce, honey, mustard, olives, pickles
Garnishes: rosemary sprigs, thyme, or edible flowers
Instructions
Choose a large wooden board or platter as your base. Start by placing small bowls with dips, sauces, or spreads on the board. Arrange cheeses in different corners, cutting some into slices and leaving others whole. Fold or roll meats and place them next to cheeses. Fill gaps with crackers, bread, fruits, and nuts. Add pops of color with dried fruits, cranberry sauce, or fresh herbs. Garnish with rosemary sprigs for a festive Thanksgiving feel. Serve immediately or refrigerate until guests arrive.
Substitutions
Swap meats for smoked salmon or roasted veggies for a vegetarian version. Use dairy-free cheeses if needed. Replace crackers with gluten-free options. Add seasonal treats like pumpkin bread slices or mini pies for a sweet twist.
Equipment
Large wooden board or serving platter
Small bowls for dips
Sharp knife for slicing
Tongs or cheese knives for serving
Storage
Refrigerator: Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 2 days.
Freezer: Not recommended, as textures of cheese and fruits change after thawing.
Make ahead: Prep ingredients a few hours in advance, but assemble just before serving.
Top Tips
Mix textures and colors for a visually appealing board. Use seasonal garnishes like cranberries or herbs for a Thanksgiving touch. Cut some cheese but leave blocks whole for variety. Keep balance—something salty, something sweet, something crunchy, and something creamy.
FAQs
Can I make a charcuterie board ahead of time? Yes, prep ingredients but assemble closer to serving.
How much should I serve per person? Plan for 2–3 ounces of cheese and 2 ounces of meat per guest.
Can I make it vegetarian? Absolutely—load it with roasted veggies, hummus, nuts, and dairy-free cheeses.
What drinks pair well with a charcuterie board? Wine, cider, or festive cocktails like a cranberry spritzer complement it perfectly.