Creating a Thanksgiving Feast on a Budget

Introduction

Maybe you’ve always wanted to host Thanksgiving but were concerned about the cost of feeding the largest meal of the year to a small army. The holidays and excess seem to go hand in hand. The economy still isn’t excellent, but fortunately, a great Thanksgiving meal can be created with a limited budget.

Implement these suggestions to create a wonderful, affordable Thanksgiving dinner:

Get started early

According to the experts, the turkey is almost half the cost of the typical Thanksgiving meal. A frozen turkey can be purchased a month or so ahead of time. Avoid waiting until close to the holidays to shop for your turkey because the prices increase and demand increases. Shop around for a good deal, and you’ll be ahead of the game.

Purchase items in bulk

If you’re feeding a large group, purchasing items in larger quantities can be worthwhile. Many of the larger stores have an aisle with bulk items. Of course, Costco, Sam’s Club, and similar stores also specialize in bulk quantities.

Utilize coupons

Grocery stores are fighting for your dollars this time of year. It can be worth the time it takes to cut out and use the coupons. Start looking a month before the big day.

• Even if you don’t typically use coupons, it might be worthwhile around Thanksgiving.
  

Skip the appetizers

Most appetizers are expensive, and the result is many leftovers. Everyone will be well-fed soon enough. Let everyone focus on the main meal. Appetizers are intended to make up for a more miniature main course.

Consider what items are in season

Brussels sprouts are abundantly available in November, while asparagus is not. Be on the lookout for items that are harvested late in the year.

Be reasonable

Most Thanksgiving meals have excessive leftovers. Try to make a realistic prediction of how much food you’ll need.

• There are online calculators that can help you accurately estimate your food requirements, depending on how many you’re feeding at Thanksgiving dinner.

Do it yourself

Dinner rolls are inexpensive in the store, but you can probably save even more money if you do it yourself. Some items, such as pecan pie, can be expensive to purchase but cheaper to make.

Stick with the basics

Many amateur chefs make the mistake of trying out new dishes that require special skills, expensive ingredients, or both. These dishes rarely turn out well, and the food may go to waste. There’s a reason why the classics became classics. Nearly everyone enjoys eating them, and the costs are minimal.

• Even Martha Stewart suggests a menu of turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, seasonal vegetables, and pumpkin pie. That’s simple and inexpensive.

Encourage all guests to bring a side dish

Take care of the turkey, let everyone else prepare, and bring the other words. Assign responsibilities for the core items and take the time and cost burdens off your shoulders. Someone is sure to get something unique and exciting.

Use the leftovers to your advantage

If you have overnight guests, they will need to be fed the following day. Push that leftover turkey on them! Who doesn’t like a turkey sandwich? You already have the food, so put it to good use.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is a time to create and share memories with your loved ones. It’s not necessary to spend much money to accomplish that. Start planning early and stick to the classic dishes everyone seems to enjoy at Thanksgiving dinner. You can host a memorable Thanksgiving and keep your budget intact.