1. Pumpkin pancakes.

Who doesn't love pumpkin pancakes? These pancakes are such a delicious way to start face stuffing day off right. I like to add chocolate chips to this recipe, but if chocolate's not your thing (then you're crazy) you can leave them out. Check out the recipe here.

2. Cranberry sauce.

Some people are bound to disagree with me, but I wholeheartedly believe that cranberry sauce is a staple on Thanksgiving. Don't get me wrong, I love gravy as much as the next girl, but there is something about a touch of cranberry sauce that really completes a mouthful of turkey for me. Check out this super simple recipe if you are feeling more sophisticated than a can.

3. Scalloped potatoes.

I am a sucker for any potato dish, but on Thanksgiving, there is no better potato dish than my grandmother's scalloped potatoes. You may think I am bias just because it's my grandmother, but if you tasted them you would see where I am coming from. This recipe could be a perfect substitute for your Thanksgiving potatoes.

4. Green beans.

No thanksgiving is complete without green beans. Personally, I really enjoy my greens covered in cream and bread crumbs. If you're going to eat the green stuff, at least make it as tasty as it can be. Try this recipe if you like your green beans like me.

5. Pumpkin pie.

Sure, there are other types of pie that you can have on turkey day, but I love a classic pumpkin pie to finish off my tummy stuffing. Apple pie is another great choice, but if you love this classic fall flavor like me, check out this recipe.

Of course, there are other breakfasts, sides, and desserts to be had on Thanksgiving, but these are some of my must-haves. I know I left turkey off this menu, but I think that turkey on turkey day is just obvious, and does not need to be stated. As we approach this fantastic national holiday, which makes me so proud to be an American, I wish you all a happy face stuffing, turkey day.