The holiday season is upon us, and with it comes delicious feasts and time-honored recipes to share with friends and family. There’s nothing quite like a home filled with the aroma of a roast turkey or baked ham, side dishes bubbling away on the stovetop, and a table set with your finest linens and candles.

For many, the centerpiece of a holiday meal is the turkey. A perfectly roasted turkey can take a bit of finesse to prepare, but the rewards are well worth it. For the ultimate turkey, choose a high-quality heritage breed and rub it generously with butter and herbs before roasting in a preheated 325 F oven. The turkey is done when the juices run clear.

What’s a turkey without stuffing? Homemade stuffing infused with sage, thyme, and chunks of bread is ideal. For extra decadence, add chestnuts, mushrooms, or oysters. Stuff the turkey cavity loosely before roasting and bake any remaining stuffing in a casserole dish.

No holiday spread is complete without mashed potatoes. Peel and chop starchy russet potatoes and boil until tender. Drain and mash with butter, warm milk or cream, salt, and pepper. For extra flavor, stir in sour cream, cheese, or fresh herbs.

A sweet ending is a must. Homemade pies like pumpkin, apple or pecan are holiday favorites. For an easier option, bake a batch of festive holiday cookies like sugar cookies, gingerbread or candy canes to enjoy with coffee or hot chocolate.

The holidays happen but once a year, so take time to slow down, connect with loved ones, and create memories over delicious home-cooked meals. With some time-honored recipes and the perfect blend of flavors and spices, your holiday feast is sure to be a success and the start of a new cherished tradition.