Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks for your family, friends and everything else you have in your life. Most people feel very joyous during this time of year, being very grateful for everything they have in their lives. But, for some, this time of year can become stressful very quickly if you have to prepare a Thanksgiving meal for your entire family. If this sounds like you, or you just want a little inspiration on what to make this Thanksgiving, here is how I plan my family’s entire Thanksgiving meal:
Main Meal
Let’s start with the main course. For most families, this one is a no-brainer. Turkey, duh! But some families, like mine, do not always buy an entire turkey for just the four of us. Instead, we buy a medium sized turkey breast. So, if you are going to have a lot or a just a few Thanksgiving guests, decide what type of main dish should be served, what size, type, etc. Here are a few different main dishes you could make this year:
22 Meatless Mains for Thanksgiving
Bacon and Apple Wrapped Pork Tenderloin
Appetizers
Before the big meal, your family or guests are going to get a little hungry. Be prepared and have some killer appetizers to pre-game the big meal. Here are a few small appetizers that take no time to make and prepare:
Sweet Potatoes with Marshmallow
Pumpkin Shaped Cheese Ball with Crackers
Brie, Apple and Honey Crostini
18 Welcoming Thanksgiving Appetizers
Side Dishes
Side dishes are where the fun really begins. You can make so many different side dishes from cranberry walnut salad to sweet potatoes with marshmallows. Side dishes give everyone a chance to indulge in their favorite flavors. Here are a few of my favorite side dishes I will be making this year:
Pumpkin Soup served in Small Pumpkins
Brown Butter Garlic Honey Roasted Carrots
Creamy Garlic Whipped Mashed Potatoes
Creamy Macaroni and Cheese Casserole
Dessert
Besides the classic pumpkin pie, there are many ways you can spice up your dessert selection this Thanksgiving. For my family last year, instead of making one big pie, I made four individual mini pies. But you do not have to make just pumpkin pie, You could make apple pie, blackberry pie or any other sweet treat you enjoy. Here are a few different desserts you can make this Thanksgiving:
Caramel Apple Crisp Mini Cheesecakes
Drinks
Most overlook this subtle yet simple part of Thanksgiving, opting for a refreshing soda. Be festive this Thanksgiving and go hard with a delicious homemade apple cider! Here are a few different drink options your guests could opt for:
Thanksgiving Punch for a Crowd
Photo credits: Cover Photo, 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12