Holiday planning guide

How to plan Thanksgiving dinner without the stress

Thanksgiving is one meal, but it's really a small project: a menu, a guest list, people bringing dishes, special diets and a big shopping trip. Here's a simple way to plan it, one step at a time.

1. Start with the guest list and diets

Before you choose a single recipe, write down who's coming and what they can't eat. Gluten-free, diabetic, vegan, dairy-free or a nut allergy changes the menu. It's much easier to plan around these now than to find out at the table.

2. Build the menu in groups

Think in groups instead of one long list:

• The main: turkey, ham, or a vegetarian main.
• Sides: stuffing, mashed potatoes, green beans, cranberry sauce, rolls.
• Drinks: include at least one non-alcoholic option.
• Desserts: pumpkin pie plus one more choice.

Check each group against your guests' diets and make sure everyone has at least a few things they can eat.

3. Decide who makes what

For each dish, decide whether you'll cook it, buy it ready-made or order it from a bakery or caterer. Then share the cooking. Write down who is bringing which dish, plus their phone number or email so you can check in the week before.

4. Get everyone to agree on the dishes

When several people are cooking, give each dish a status: liked (an idea), waiting for approval (suggested and waiting on a yes) and approved (definitely on the menu). That way nobody shows up with a third sweet potato casserole.

5. Work back from the day

• 2–3 weeks before: confirm the menu and helpers, and order a turkey or any special orders.
• 1 week before: check what's already in your pantry and write the shopping list.
• Several days before: start thawing a frozen turkey in the fridge. The USDA suggests about a day for every 4–5 pounds.
• 1–2 days before: make the dishes that keep well, like cranberry sauce, pie and casseroles you can bake on the day.
• The day: cook the main and reheat the rest while the turkey rests.

6. Shop once, from one list

Go through every recipe you're cooking, write down the ingredients you'll need and cross off whatever you already have. Group the list by aisle (produce, dairy, baking) and you'll be in and out of the store much faster.