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
Top-notch recipes, expert tips, and all the tools to pull off the year’s most memorable feast.
Check It Out
See what other Food52 readers are saying.