It’s time to start planning for the holidays! This Thanksgiving Menu Planning Sheet is the perfect way to figure out who is cooking and bringing what! Holiday planning has never been so easy!
All you have to do is print, organize, and then let everyone know the plan. This free printable lays everything out for you in an easy-to-use format!
The big tip I have for you is to remember that planning the holiday dinner is fun! It’s a time when everyone gathers around the table, enjoys each other’s company, and looks at all they have to be thankful for.
I also know that planning the holiday dinner can be stressful sometimes, and a lot of anyone to handle. This is why I created this simple planning sheet – I hope it simplifies the process for you as well.
What are the basics of a Thanksgiving meal?
Every family has their version of the traditional meal. Still, the basics of a Thanksgiving feast usually include a pre-dinner appetizer, a roast turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and various vegetables such as green beans and carrots.
Alongside these primary staples, it’s not uncommon to find additional dishes like sweet potato casserole, macaroni and cheese, or even a fruit salad.
Finally, an assortment of scrumptious pies, like pumpkin, pecan, and apple, round out the meal, satiating the taste buds and bringing the evening’s festivities to a satisfying close.
What Thanksgiving sides can be made ahead?
While the turkey may take center stage, it’s the side dishes that often steal the show. One great way to ease the stress of the big day is to prepare some of the side dishes ahead of time.
Traditional sides like green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, and stuffing can all be made a day or two in advance. Not only does this save time and oven space on Thanksgiving day, but it also allows the flavors to meld together for an even more delicious dish.
Additionally, making these sides ahead allows more time to focus on other tasks, such as spending time with loved ones or tackling other preparations for the big day.
How does meal planning help save time?
With shopping lists, recipes, and a well-organized schedule, meal planning allows individuals to avoid last-minute grocery store runs and stressful cooking situations.
Additionally, by having a set meal plan, individuals can delegate tasks and responsibilities to family members or friends, making the holiday meal preparation a collaborative effort.
Moreover, meal planning for the holidays can help individuals save money as they are less likely to overspend on impulse purchases or unnecessary ingredients.
Therefore, by taking the time to plan meals for the holidays carefully, individuals can enjoy a more relaxed and enjoyable holiday season while still providing nutritious and delicious meals for their loved ones.
Should I decorate the table for Thanksgiving?
While the answer depends on your preferences and the atmosphere you’re trying to create, there are some potential benefits to consider.
For one thing, a well-decorated table can help to create a sense of occasion and set the tone for the meal to come. It can also be an opportunity to express your creativity and eye for style.
There are so many cute options for table decorations like mini pumpkins, paper towel turkeys, or even just a fun-themed tablecloth.
You can make it as straightforward or as easy as possible!
What are must-make pies for Thanksgiving?
While traditional pies such as pumpkin, pecan, and apple have long been staples of the holiday, in recent years, new takes on classic recipes have emerged.
Sweet potato, cranberry, and even chocolate pies have become increasingly popular, welcoming diversity to the traditional dessert spread.
As families gather around the table to give thanks for their blessings, there’s no denying that adding a quintessential pie can make the occasion all the more special.
How soon should I start planning the meal for Thanksgiving?
It’s never too early to start planning. The sooner that you can plan out all the ingredients that you need to buy and the menu that you’re going to prepare, the better.
If you’re feeding a group, it’s time to start communicating and figuring out who will bring what.
This printable can help you assign the dishes, plan out what is needed, and have a good overall view of what is needed to fill the holiday table full of delicious food.
Easy Recipes for Thanksgiving
Just in case you need a few good recipes to have on hand for the holidays, I’ve gathered some of mine that can make it a super simple process.
These Thanksgiving Slow Cooker Recipes prove you can use your slow cooker and the oven simultaneously to make even more yummy food.
Everyone will love the taste of this Thanksgiving Puppy Chow Recipe. It’s a simple dessert or snack.
Start the meal off with some of these Easy Thanksgiving Appetizers.
Grab your FREE Thanksgiving Menu Planning Sheet
Don’t forget to grab and print your free menu planning sheet below. This is a simple way to make your holiday meal a breeze!
