Thanksgiving Hosting Tips

Hosting Thanksgiving dinner is no easy task and can feel like an intimidating responsibility. Playing hostess doesn’t mean that you have to be confined to the kitchen or won’t be able to enjoy the holiday gathering. A little planning and organization, along with a helping hand can make for stress free celebration. Here are our tips for hosting Thanksgiving dinner:

Prepare in Advance

Don’t wait until the week of Thanksgiving to start planning. Making a plan early will not only reduce the stress of hosting but can also help ensure that you don’t miss any details. Determine how many people will be attending the festivities and what you’ll serve.

Whether you are well seasoned in the kitchen or if you are new to the hosting game, the same rule remains, don’t make a recipe for the first time on Thanksgiving. Stick to tried and true recipes or try out the recipe weeks in advance so you can fine tune the dish before the big day.

For recipes that can be prepared in advance, spend the time in the days leading up to Thanksgiving so prepare the dishes. Crossing items off your to-do list early can make for an easier and more enjoyable celebration.

Make a Schedule

After selecting your menu and preparing the dishes that you are able to make in advance, make a schedule for the remaining cooking and baking. Use empty baking dishes in the oven to determine how many items can fit in your oven together. Be sure to remember that numerous dishes in the oven together can affect cooking times.

Accept Help

There is no shame in accepting a helping hand, especially when it comes to holiday hosting. Allow guests to contribute to the meal by either bringing a side dish, dessert, appetizer or even drinks. Don’t be afraid to turn to the professionals either. If baking isn’t quite your specialty or you find the turkey intimidating, don’t hesitate to order a dish or two.

Clean Out the Fridge

Nothing can make your fridge seem smaller than hosting a big family meal. In the weeks prior to Thanksgiving, clear the clutter from the fridge to make sure you have as much room as possible. Toss the expired condiments and half eaten containers of leftovers to allow plenty of space for dishes and drinks.

Set the Table

Setting the table is one task that can be tackled days in advance. There is no need to break the bank when it comes to décor. Pretty napkins, a nice tablecloth and a simple centerpiece are all you need. Most importantly, make sure you have enough flatware and glasses for all your guests.

Select the Serving Dishes

Don’t stop after you get out the plates and set the table. Use this as an opportunity to select your serving dishes and utensils too. Ensure you have everything you need and enlist a trusted friend or family member to bring any necessary items. Label each serving piece with a sticky note of which dish will be served in it.

Plan for Leftovers

Make sure to add aluminum foil, plastic wrap, storage baggies and disposable plastic containers to your shopping list. Having the essentials handy will help with the after dinner clean-up and make it easier to send your guests home with leftovers.

Pour a Drink… or Two

While you may spend hours planning and preparing the big meal, drinks can often be overlooked. Don’t forget to stock up on non-alcoholic beverages when you are shopping for your ingredients or stop by the store for a bottle of wine. Follow a tip from an experienced hostess and skip preparing individual drinks. Instead opt for a crowd-pleasing batch cocktail or crockpot cider.

Don’t let the stress of hosting take the enjoyment out of your Thanksgiving holiday. Don’t be afraid to skip the food preparation and give us a call. With all the holiday staples like ham, turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole, macaroni and cheese, stuffing, cranberry sauce, rolls, pies and banana pudding- our events team is here with a take and bake menu that will please the entire table. Simply email your order to feedtakeandtake@gmail.com, pick up your order the day before Thanksgiving and follow the re-heating instructions the next day.