Thanksgiving is all about tradition and comfort, but with so many dishes to prepare, it’s easy to overlook some key ingredients. Here’s our guide to the most commonly forgotten items, so you’re covered from appetizers to dessert. Whether it’s that final dash of cream in the mashed potatoes or a missing element from the charcuterie board, these essentials ensure your Thanksgiving runs smoothly—and tastefully!
Cooking Essentials
These items are the backbone of many Thanksgiving dishes, but they often slip off the list in the holiday hustle.
- Butter, Milk, and Heavy Cream: From mashed potatoes to rich gravies and pies, these dairy staples are non-negotiable.
- Stock and Broth: Essential for flavorful gravies, stuffing, and soups. Stock and broth add depth to nearly any dish, so keep some on hand.
Pro Tip: Buy these a few weeks in advance to help stretch your budget and avoid last-minute shopping trips.
Sides and Bread
While the turkey is often the star, sides and bread play a major supporting role.
- Dinner Rolls and Fresh Bread: These might be an afterthought, but warm, fluffy bread completes the meal. Consider pre-baked loaves that just need a quick toast in the oven.
- Stuffing Mix: Even if you plan to make stuffing from scratch, having a boxed mix as a backup is a lifesaver if you run out of time.
Pro Tip: Freeze rolls and loaves up to a week in advance to save precious fridge space.
Charcuterie Must-Haves
For many families, appetizers set the stage for the big meal, and a charcuterie board is always a crowd-pleaser.
- Nuts, Prosciutto, Salami, and Goat Cheese: Perfect for snacking while the main courses are cooking. These items make for an easy and impressive spread.
Pro Tip: Build your charcuterie board with sturdy ingredients that don’t require last-minute prep—bonus points for items you can use post-Thanksgiving, too!
Fun Drinks
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a variety of drinks to keep guests hydrated and happy.
- Soda, Sparkling Water, and Wine: From kids to adults, a well-rounded selection keeps everyone satisfied. Stock up on sparkling water and wine, which can also double as last-minute mixers.
Pro Tip: Plan to buy drinks a few weeks before Thanksgiving to avoid carrying heavy bottles during the last-minute rush.
Desserts
Pies are quintessential for Thanksgiving, but they’re easy to forget in the whirlwind of savory prep.
- Pecan and Pumpkin Pies: These classics are a must-have for a traditional Thanksgiving spread. If homemade pies feel daunting, consider a high-quality store-bought option to save time.
Pro Tip: Purchase or bake pies a day or two before Thanksgiving so they’re fresh without adding stress on the day itself.
Produce
Produce like fresh herbs and seasonal fruits and veggies are often left off the list, yet they make the meal feel complete.
- Cranberries, Celery, Honeycrisp Apples, Squash, and Tomatoes: These are key ingredients for stuffing, salads, garnishes, and side dishes. Fresh cranberries are especially useful for making homemade cranberry sauce that will far outshine anything canned.
Pro Tip: Store hardy produce, like squash and apples, in a cool, dry place and buy herbs closer to Thanksgiving to keep them fresh.
With so many dishes to juggle, it’s easy to overlook even the basics. Save yourself a trip to the store by planning and stocking up on these essentials ahead of time. Whether it’s adding a creamy touch to mashed potatoes or ensuring the appetizer board is charcuterie-ready, these items keep your Thanksgiving day delicious and stress-free.
Get even more Thanksgiving prep tips and shopping lists.
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