Ultimate Thanksgiving Checklist: Stress-Free Feast for 8
The Ultimate Thanksgiving Checklist offers a complete, stress-free guide to preparing a flavorful and organized Thanksgiving feast for 8 guests. With easy-to-follow steps, versatile ingredients, and smart time management, this checklist ensures a memorable, delicious, and relaxed holiday celebration.
Equipment
- Roasting Pan
- Large Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish
- Meat Thermometer
- Potato Masher
- Saucepan
Ingrédients
Main Ingredients
- 1 turkey (12–14 lbs) whole turkey seasoned well
- 1/2 cup olive oil for roasting and vegetables
- salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup butter for basting
- 2 onions chopped
- 2 stalks celery chopped
Stuffing
- 10 cups bread cubes stale preferred
- 4 cups chicken stock
- 2 tbsp sage dried
- 2 tbsp thyme dried
Sides
- 2 cups cranberry sauce
- 2 lbs green beans fresh
- 4 lbs mashed potatoes prepared
- 2 cups gravy prepared with turkey drippings
Instructions
- Gather all ingredients a day before cooking. Chop onions, celery, and garlic ahead of time.
- Season the turkey with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add garlic to the cavity for flavor.
- Roast the turkey at 325°F (165°C) for 3–4 hours, basting every 30 minutes with melted butter.
- For the stuffing, sauté onions and celery in olive oil for 5–7 minutes.
- Mix sautéed vegetables with bread cubes, sage, thyme, and chicken stock. Bake covered for 30–45 minutes.
- Boil, mash, and season the potatoes with butter, salt, and pepper. Keep warm.
- Steam or sauté green beans for 5–7 minutes and season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare gravy using turkey drippings, flour, and broth. Whisk until thickened.
- Carve the turkey and serve with mashed potatoes, stuffing, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
Notes
To make ahead, prep the sides a day early. Reheat gently before serving. For a healthier twist, use olive oil instead of butter and include gluten-free bread for stuffing. Don’t forget to check the turkey’s internal temperature for safety (165°F/74°C).