Your Guide to a Foolproof Thanksgiving

Pull off a flawless feast with these basic how-to’s, planning tools, and simple holiday recipes.

30 Simply Delicious Holiday Desserts
These recipes provide sweet endings to any festive celebration.

A step-by-step guide to roasting and carving your bird.

Photo: José Picayo

Need some help putting together the big meal? These seven winning tools will give you an edge.

Photo: Tom Schierlitz

One turkey + 5 side dishes + 2 desserts + 1 stove = chaos. Download this handy prep list and stay one step ahead.

Photo: Mikkel Vang

Food question? Here, numbers to call when your pie crust cracks or your turkey’s still frozen.

Photo: Nato Welton

What Is Your Favorite Thanksgiving Shortcut?
Real Simple readers reveal their best time-saving tips.

Thanksgiving Dinner Without the Stress
A little bit of smart planning can make this meal one of the easiest―and most gratifying.

Decide which recipes you want to make, keeping in mind that there’s only so much one person―and one kitchen―can do. If you really do need 10 side dishes, look for recipes that use the same oven temperature, so they can cook at the same time, says Bluysen.

After you narrow down your menu, reread the recipes that remain. Most can be broken into steps that you can do ahead of time. Then make a list of what you want to get done on each of the days leading up to Thanksgiving, says Bluysen. “I really think if you go through it enough times, you will be more relaxed,” she says.
Figure out what size turkey you need. Bluysen likes a fresh turkey, which can be picked up close to the holiday (call your supermarket to reserve one), relieving your refrigerator of the days required to defrost a bulky frozen bird.
Related: Read This Before Roasting Your Turkey
Make a detailed shopping list and check it―twice. But don’t expect to get all your shopping done in one trip. Instead, divide your list into two parts: items you’ll need in advance and items you’ll need the final day or two before the meal. Planning a second trip not only keeps your refrigerator from groaning but also relieves you of having to remember every last stick of butter the first time around. When you go to the store, grab a few bottles of something to serve with the meal.
Related: Thanksgiving Beverage Suggestions