Hosting your first Thanksgiving dinner can be a daunting yet exciting task. Whether you have been cooking Thanksgiving dinner for years, or this year will be your debut performance, I don’t know anyone who feels like it’s a snap! Yesterday alone I had several conversations with friends and family members who are starting to plan their menu for the big event. I cannot believe that it is just around the corner!
About 6 weeks ago I did a big batch of Thanksgiving recipe development for cookingchanneltv.com. I tested multiple turkeys, researched stuffing, and did my darndest to find an alternative to pumpkin pie (because let’s be honest, Costco makes a delicious option that no one should feel guilty for serving!). If you are a planner like myself and have already started thinking about what you will serve at your dinner table this year, check out the recipes that I came up with and will be serving myself this year. The turkey is hands down the easiest I’ve ever made and was a HUGE hit in the test kitchen. (the secret…order a fresh turkey in advance!)
When it comes to tips for the big day, well…we could chat for an hour. But hands down my best advice is to make a plan and write it out. In fact, print that plan and stick it on your refrigerator! There are plenty of things that you can make in advance and it is a good opportunity to delegate a few of the responsibilities to willing guests who offer to help. Finally, if you are tackling this dinner on your own for the first time, I would suggest to focus on a few key items for the dinner (turkey, stuffing, etc.) and take a few shortcuts elsewhere. Consider ordering fresh rolls from your favorite local bakery, or picking up a pumpkin pie from Costco (I’m serious about how good I think these are).
Don’t forget that the goal should be to enjoy what a special day Thanksgiving is and to not get too caught up in the hustle and bustle in the kitchen. Happy Thanksgiving!
I see that pie every time I’m in there and have thought about it but didn’t dare take the plunge (when it comes to making pie crust, I’m a chicken!). I might have to “outsource” the desserts to costco while I prep everything else
Thanks Kelsey!
Another good thing to keep in mind while planning is how many burners you have and the size of your oven. A test run with pots, pans and baking dishes will ensure everything you plan will fit.
i will take that apple pear stuffing recipe, thank you very much. i’m in north ogden this year for thanksgiving–a first since i’ve been married–and i can’t wait to get my chef on with my mom and sisters. and i am dreaming of your pumpkin shakes. making one today.