The first step to a successful Thanksgiving is to start your planning early—ideally, around three weeks before the big day. This is the time to get all the logistics in order, so when the holiday arrives, you can focus more on the cooking and less on scrambling to finalize details.
Turkey Time Don’t wait until the last minute to grab your turkey! If you’re planning on ordering a fresh turkey, it’s best to do this at least a week ahead. If you’re using a frozen turkey, make sure you leave enough time for it to thaw properly in the fridge—a general rule is to allow 24 hours of thawing time for every 4-5 pounds of turkey.
Learn how to cook the perfect turkey! Follow these simple tips for a juicy, flavorful bird every time.
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Side Dishes Choosing sides can be tricky because you want them to complement each other without overwhelming your guests. A good rule is to have a variety of sides that include different textures and flavors—think something creamy like mashed potatoes, something crisp like roasted vegetables, and something fresh like a salad. Avoid having too many carb-heavy sides (as delicious as they may be) to prevent the meal from feeling too heavy.
As for how many sides to serve, it depends on your guest count. For a smaller gathering of 4-6 people, 3-4 sides should suffice. For larger groups, plan on having at least 5-6 side dishes so there’s enough variety without overwhelming the table.
Appetizers Appetizers are great for keeping guests happy while the turkey finishes cooking. Opt for light bites like a cheese board, deviled eggs, or stuffed mushrooms that won’t ruin appetites before the main event.
Desserts No Thanksgiving meal is complete without dessert! When choosing your sweets, aim for a mix of flavors—something rich like pumpkin pie, something light like an apple tart, and maybe a fun surprise like pecan pie or cheesecake. If you’re serving a larger crowd, consider offering mini desserts, so guests can try a little bit of everything.
Master the art of pie-making with our guide that covers everything from flaky pie crusts to delicious fillings and helpful baking tips.
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