Hank the Cowboy and Sally May are going head-to-head in the kitchen. It’s true, even cowboys and their kitchen partners can’t resist a little chaos. Art by Gerald L. Holmes.
Thanksgiving is a time to gather around the table with loved ones, share stories, and enjoy a delicious meal together. But this year, why not add a bit of cowboy charm and a dash of humor to your celebration by incorporating recipes inspired by Hank the Cowdog—the beloved, four-legged sleuth from the series by John R. Erickson. Known for his adventurous spirit and hilarious antics on the ranch, Hank’s “doggone good” meals can inspire some fun and flavorful additions to your Thanksgiving spread. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of Hank’s cowboy wit or just looking for a unique way to spice up your holiday menu, try incorporating recipes from Hank’s world into your meal to bring a true ranching vibe to your feast.
Kris Erickson
Kris Erikson, the beloved wife of renowned author John R. Erikson, is a talented cook whose recipes have become cherished treasures for many. Known for her warm hospitality and down-to-earth style, Kris’s culinary creations have a special place in the hearts of those who enjoy comforting, home-cooked meals. Her recipes bring a taste of tradition and family to the table, making them perfect for special occasions like Thanksgiving. Here are some creative ways to add Hank the Cowdog-inspired dishes to your Thanksgiving table. Ready to cowboy up your holiday meal?
Rhubarb Custard Pie
Rhubarb custard pie is one of those delightful, slightly unexpected desserts that has earned its place on many Thanksgiving tables. The tartness of the rhubarb, paired with the sweet, creamy custard, creates a perfectly balanced flavor. It’s a unique and beloved alternative to the traditional pumpkin or apple pie, adding a refreshing twist to the holiday spread. For those looking to try something a little different this year, the Hank the Cowdog rhubarb custard pie recipe offers a fun and quirky approach to making this classic dessert. Using the Hank the Cowdog rhubarb custard pie recipe means embracing a bit of the cowboy spirit—simple, homey, and brimming with character. As you combine the tart rhubarb with the rich custard, you can imagine Hank in his own wild and whimsical way, offering his best advice, even if it’s a little offbeat. Click here to view the recipe.
Sally May’s Apple Pie
Apple pie has long been a beloved staple of Thanksgiving tables across America. Its warm, sweet aroma is much like the holiday itself, evoking memories of family gatherings, cozy kitchens, and the joy of sharing a meal with loved ones. The flaky, golden crust filled with spiced apples creates a comforting and festive dessert that is both traditional and timeless. For many, it’s not truly Thanksgiving without a slice of apple pie. While there are countless apple pie recipes out there, the recipe from Hank the Cowdog stands out, especially for fans of fun and nostalgia. The instructions, though simple, will fill you with the spirit of adventure, much like Hank’s own escapades on the ranch. Click here to view the recipe.
Anna Beth’s Scalloped Squash
As we all start thinking about that classic lineup of side dishes—stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, and, of course, something that’s a little bit different but just as tasty. This year, why not spice up your holiday spread with scalloped squash? It’s perfect for the season. In true Hank fashion, it’s a dish that combines comfort and flavor with a bit of rustic charm. If you’ve read Hank the Cowdog’s adventures, you know that Hank’s not one to settle for anything less than delicious—and he doesn’t require any fancy kitchen gadgets. Just a few simple ingredients and a little bit of know-how, and you’ll have a Thanksgiving side dish that’s sure to bring the ranchy spirit to your table. Click here to view the recipe.
As you gather around the table this Thanksgiving, inspired by Kris Erikson’s delicious recipes, remember that the heart of these dishes comes from a rich tradition of ranching and family. To dive deeper into the world of ranching and discover the stories behind the flavors, visit the National Ranching Heritage Center and the Cash Family Ranch Life Learning Center featuring Hank the Cowdog, where you can explore the history and heritage of this vital American way of life. For more tasty recipes and Hank the Cowdog merchandise, be sure to visit Cogdell’s at the Ranch inside the National Ranching Heritage Center. It’s the perfect place to find cookbooks, fun gifts, and more for the whole family. Visit https://ranchingheritage.org to learn more today. Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy the flavors of the season!
Cogdell’s General Store is the official store of the National Ranching Heritage Center, located in Lubbock, Texas, on the Texas Tech University campus. We offer a wide variety of Western-themed merchandise, including books and many products with the National Ranching Heritage Center’s brand. Image courtesy of Mark Umstot.
