It's Going to Be OK: Thanksgiving Tips and Tricks

Not to put a damper on things, but Thanksgiving really isn't that big of a deal. Sure, it's a holiday where the spotlight is pretty steadily focused on the grub, but when it comes down to it, Thanksgiving is really about family, friends, and the joy of overindulgence. Just make sure to keep the wine flowing and avoid certain no-no topics, and it's hard to go too wrong. 

That being said, there's no escaping the fact that Turkey Day earned its name for a reason. And many memories attached to this holiday are inextricably bound to food -- and very particular food at that. In the end, the only true rule is to do Thanksgiving your way. Put your own spin on it, start your own traditions, but make sure to keep some of the old going. No matter how seriously you want to do Thanksgiving this year, we've got you covered. Because as long as there's some iteration of bird-mash-cran-stuffing-pie combination (and a 24-hour James Bond marathon), it's the holidays.

Totally overwhelemed? Need a plan, pronto? Want to switch things up? Start here:

11 Secret Weapons for your Thanksgiving Meal by Kenzi Wilbur

 

Because life is short:

How to Deep-Fry a Turkey by Paul Longton

Juicy, tender meat, every time. It's the wet brine way, baby:

How to Wet Brine a Bird by Kenzi Wilbur

 

Not a fan of the wet brine? Here's an easy, low-maintenance way to get a delicious, crisp-skinned turkey with juicy meat:

Dry Brining a Turkey by Catherine Lamb

 

Petrified by pie? We'll walk you through. Because homemade is so, so worth it:

Everything You Need to Make the Perfect Pie by Catherine Lamb

 

Need a topping for a gratin? Is mac & cheese on your menu? Planning some turkey schnitzel for day 2?

How to Make Breadcrumbs by gheanna

 

How to make the perfect mashed potatoes, just the way everyone likes them:

Mashed Potato Strategies by Elana Carlson

 

Running out of time for your turkey? Spatchcocking is here to save the day:

How to Spatchcock a Turkey by Kristen Miglore

 

Making gravy? Here's your step one:

How to Make Homemade Stock by Catherine Lamb

 

And step 2:

How to Make a Roux by Amelia Vottero

 

You've got the bird. Now carve it the way it deserves to be carved:

How to Carve a Turkey by gheanna 

 

Dry turkey? Lumpy mash? Never fear! Our foolproof guide is here:

5 Thanksgiving Disasters and How to Fix Them by Marian Bull

 

You've got food covered -- now let's set the table:

How to Build a Holiday Tablescape by brette warshaw