A 5-Step Guide to Surviving a Home-Cooked Thanksgiving

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner at home is the ultimate test of your culinary and kitchen management abilities. It has the potential to be the most memorable supper of the year for Americans because it is perhaps the most significant meal of the year. You want to provide your family and visitors with a festive meal as they get together to give thanks. With this five-step survival plan for your homemade Thanksgiving, you can lessen your load on game day.

Step 1: Make a Plan

Make some lists, check them twice, and think it through to the last bite. Plan your shopping at least a few days in advance to allow for the sometimes overlooked ingredient. Establish what preparations must be made on the big day and what can be done in advance. (I’ll elaborate later!) Give yourself plenty of time to relax and slice your chicken as well as time for defrosting if necessary and brining if preferred. Never be hesitant to deviate from traditional approaches or give an old favorite a fresh spin.

Step 2: Take Stock

Make a list of your serving and cooking utensils. You want to make sure you have adequate supplies on hand to handle the starters, main courses, sides, breads, and desserts that are often on a menu. Glassware for the abundant wine should not be forgotten. Clear some room in the refrigerator, then clean the drink coolers.

Step 3: Delegate

If visitors have offered, assign tasks now. Right now would be a fantastic chance to inquire if no one has already offered! The majority of holiday guests are delighted to help, and by delegating some tasks, you can concentrate on the meals you truly want to stand out. Remind your companion that the cleanup won’t be handled by the cook.

Step 4: Make Ahead

Your busiest days might be those leading up to Thanksgiving, but it will be worth it since you will be able to concentrate on the main event and enjoy your guests more on Thanksgiving Day. Pie crusts and bread dough retain nicely in the refrigerator, but keep in mind that 48 hours should be the maximum amount of time for storage. Butternut squash, mashed potatoes, yams, and other starchy treats can either be boiled and then prepared for mash, baking, etc. ahead of time or completely prepared ahead of time and refrigerated. The make-ahead list must definitely include cranberry sauce.

Step 5: Be Present and Enjoy the Day

Above all, try to have fun with the procedure, your visitors, and the day. Create a cheerful and pleasant atmosphere to keep your spirits up. Start your party by tuning in to the Thanksgiving Day parade, streaming music, or getting ready for the next football game. Whatever setting best captures the spirit of Thanksgiving for you. Put on your favorite apron and make a glass of wine for yourself. Plan your time in the kitchen so that you can take frequent breaks to interact with your visitors. Stick to your plan, but be adaptable. Grace should be extended to you now and every day.

It can be challenging to say the least to prepare and serve the biggest meal of the year, but you will undoubtedly make it through to prepare another feast! Remember that everything will come together in the end as you make your Thanksgiving meal at home this year. You should be grateful for that and a lot more things.

Download the free Thanksgiving Survival Guide from The Chopping Block if you need even more advice for a joyous holiday meal. It includes a shopping list to make your planning simple and is packed with delicious recipes that your family will adore.