Association of Home Appliance Manufacturers

Last-Minute Thanksgiving Dinner Plans

Do you plan your Thanksgiving feast just hours before the guests arrive? The following tips will ensure an enjoyable, convenient, and hassle-free holiday without sacrificing tradition even though you plan at the last minute.

Getting Started - Sunday, Nov. 23:

Browse through the nearest magazine or newspaper with holiday dinner menus and recipes included or stick with good old family favorites from the recipe box.

Prepare shopping list.

Purchase a fully cooked whole turkey.

Purchase from the store shortcut items such as:

  • Canned or frozen vegetables and cranberry sauce
  • Seasoned bread cubes or crumbs
  • Gravy mix
  • Ready-made side dishes and appetizers
  • Desserts from bakery aisle

Monday, Nov. 24:

If a frozen fully cooked turkey was purchased, thaw turkey by placing it breast up, in its unopened wrapper on a tray in the refrigerator. Allow about one day of thawing for every four pounds of turkey.

Wednesday, Nov. 26:

Set the table.

Prepare and refrigerate the side dishes, if appropriate.

Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 27:

Place fully cooked turkey, breast side up, on a flat rack in open roasting pan. Insert an oven-safe meat thermometer deep into the thickest part of the thigh. Roast at 325 degrees F until thermometer reaches 130 to 140 degrees F.

Complete side dishes, desserts, set out appetizers, and dinner is ready. Enjoy!

Courtesy of Article Resource Association

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