Bacon

The secret to making grilled cheese for a crowd? Turn on the oven (the standard skillet method is too labor-intensive). Encourage guests to customize their sandwiches with the cheeses, breads, and fixings you’ve set out. Then simply pop them on a baking sheet and cook.

We especially like the combination of parsnips, kohlrabi, and celery root in this bacony mash. Prepare the dish a day ahead to allow the flavors to meld (and save time on Thanksgiving Day).

Channel New England with this rich and warming one-pot clam chowder. If fresh clams are unavailable (or you're running short on time), substitute two 10-ounce cans of baby clams and 6 cups of bottled clam juice. This is part of BA's Best, a collection of our essential recipes.

This streamlined, somewhat lighter cassoulet employs French green lentils, bacon, and smoked sausage.

Toss with spinach, escarole, or kale, or spoon over pork chops.

A little bit of bacon and a handful of raisins add a smoky sweetness that balances the slightly bitter flavor of the little cabbages.

Want to take your deviled eggs recipe to the next level? One word: bacon.

Rustic yellow pea soup goes upscale with a foie gras garnish.

Pack this stunning beef roast with a savory stuffing, which keeps the meat juicy and makes a fine accompaniment on the plate.

Our best creamy collard greens recipe does contain bacon, whole milk, and heavy cream, but it's so worth it if you want to splurge. Serve as a hearty side dish.

The foundation of this étouffée-like dish is a brown roux that lends a deep, nutty flavor. The gravy pairs well with the Grits Dressing, biscuits, and turkey.

This rich, soufflé-like dressing derives its texture from stone-ground grits.