Keys to a Stress-Free Thanksgiving The keys to a stress-free Thanksgiving are planning ahead and asking for help. Here are a few tips to get you started: One day to three weeks before Thanksgiving Shop for those dishes you will make yourself, if
items can remain fresh. Do a trial run with any new dishes on your immediate family. Ask your guests to each bring an appetizer, side dish or beverages. Create a seating plan, set the table(s), and decorate your home. Make as many dishes in advance as possible, or order side dishes from your favorite restaurant.
Turkey Times THAWING TIMES Weight 8 to 12 lbs 12 to 16 lbs 16 to 20 lbs 20 to 24 lbs
in Fridge - 40ºF 2 to 2.5 days 2.5 to 4 days 4 to 5 days 5 to 6 days
in COLD Water* 4 to 6 hrs 6 to 8 hrs 8 to 10 hrs 10 to 12 hrs
*turkey should be submerged in the water
COOKING TIMES Open Pan Method - in 325ºF conventional oven on lowest rack
Weight 8 to 12 lbs 12 to 14 lbs 14 to 18 lbs 18 to 20 lbs 20 to 24 lbs
Unstuffed 2.75 to 3 hrs 3 to 3.75 hrs 3.75 to 4.25 hrs 4.25 to 4.5 hrs 4.5 to 5 hrs
Stuffed 3 to 3.5 hrs 3.5 to 4 hrs 4 to 4.25 hrs 4.25 to 4.75 hrs 4.75 to 5.25 hrs
Thanksgiving Day Make easy appetizers guests can snack on (such as fruit and veggie trays, charcuterie board, chips and salsa, or pre meal soup served in mugs) while they are waiting for dinner to be served. Put beverages in the refrigerator to chill. While the turkey is roasting, prepare those side dishes you plan to make.
After dinner Make coffee and tea to go with dessert. Don’t hesitate to ask a friend or family member to help with the cleanup. Split up the leftovers and have containers ready to fill so you can send your guests home with their favorites.
Great additions to your favorite stuffing recipe: • Apples and walnuts • Dried cranberries and roasted pecans • Granny Smith apples and almonds • Caramelized onions • Bacon • Italian sausage • Mix of wild mushrooms • Chopped dried pears and walnuts • Diced ham • Pine nuts and raisins Want faster • Water chestnuts cooking time? • Sundried tomatoes An 8 quart • Kale Instant Pot can • Cornbread and fennel cook an 8-10lb