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.
• Ask your guests to each bring a 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.

Thanksgiving Day

• Make easy appetizers guests can snack on (such as fruit and veggie trays or chips and salsa) 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.

Thanksgiving Timing

Turkey Thawing Times

Weight in Fridge: 40° F in Cold Water*

• 8 to 12 pounds / 2 to 2.5 days / 4 to 6 hours
• 12 to 16 pounds / 2.5 to 4 days / 6 to 8 hours
• 16 to 20 pounds / 4 to 5 days / 8 to 10 hours
• 20 to 24 pounds / 5 to 6 days / 10 to 12 hours

(*Turkey should be submerged in the water.)

Turkey Cooking Times

Weight – Unstuffed / Stuffed

• 8 to 12 pounds – 2.75 to 3 hours/ 3 to 3.5 hours
• 12 to 14 pounds – 3 to 3.75 hours / 3.5 to 4 hours
• 14 to 18 pounds – 3.75 to 4.25 hours/ 4 to 4.25 hours
• 18 to 20 pounds – 4.25 to 4.5 hours/ 4.25 to 4.75 hours
• 20 to 24 pounds – 4.5 to 5 hours / 4.75 to 5.25 hours

(*Open-Pan Method in 325° F conventional oven on lowest rack.)