What is the main meat dish at Thanksgiving dinner?

What is the main meat dish at Thanksgiving dinner? The answer is turkey.

Roasted turkey became the centerpiece of the classic United States Thanksgiving meal, usually served alongside stuffing or dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and vegetables. The bird’s size also makes it practical for a large family gathering, with leftovers commonly used in sandwiches, soups, and casseroles.

Turkey was not necessarily the only meat at the 1621 Plymouth harvest gathering often associated with the holiday. Historical accounts mention deer brought by the Wampanoag, along with other foods available in the region. The modern turkey-centered menu developed gradually as Thanksgiving became a national tradition.

Another common mix-up is assuming every Thanksgiving dinner must include turkey. Ham, roast beef, chicken, or vegetarian dishes may be served instead, and regional menus vary. Nevertheless, in the standard American Thanksgiving dinner, turkey is the canonical main meat dish and the symbol most closely associated with the feast.