The holidays are here, and soon we’ll be gathering with loved ones around the table. Whether it’s your first time hosting or your home is the go-to holiday hub, these simple steps will help you serve a turkey (and sides) your guests won’t soon forget.

Grab the Entrée – and All Its Friends!

A great meal starts with a great shopping list. Be sure to include:
• Raw ingredients
• Cooked or pre-made items
• Foil pans, pots, utensils, and other equipment
• Condiments, rubs, and sauces
• Extra storage containers for leftovers

Pro tip: If you’re trying out a new spice blend, test it on a smaller piece of turkey first, and check for any guest allergies or aversions.

Also, make note of dietary needs and offer alternative dishes so everyone has an entrée option. Label allergen-free items with color-coded tags, unique dishware, or a dedicated section of your spread.

Set Yourself Up for Success

Once your groceries are in, prepare your home for the holiday hustle:
• Assign someone to take the turkey out to thaw — and set a thawing time.
• Plan leftover-friendly meals like meatballs, enchiladas, pot pie, or egg rolls.
• Restock your first aid kit and kitchen safety tools (oven mitts, towels, fire extinguisher, etc.).
• Check your stock of containers, serving utensils, chairs, and even toilet paper.

Pro tip: From the freezer to the front closet, clear out space where you and your guests will gather.

Cook Your Turkey Right

When your turkey is thawed and ready, follow these tips (plus your package instructions) for a perfect main dish:
• Let the turkey come to room temperature, then pat it dry for crispy skin.
• Place chopped veggies under the turkey in the roasting pan for flavorful sides and rich gravy.
• Position the turkey legs-first in the oven — the denser meat will cook closer to the heat source.

Deploy Your Post-Meal Cleanup Crew

After the feast, tidy up before food sits out too long:
• Separate meat and bones into different bags to make stock now or freeze for later.
• Use ice to cool warm dishes before storing in the fridge or freezer.
• Note which dishes were favorites and which to skip next year.

With these best practices, you’ll be ready to create a festive, mouthwatering meal your loved ones will remember.

Happy eating — and happy holidays!

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