Whether this is the first Thanksgiving dinner you've hosted or you're just looking to change things up a bit, we've got the goods to help make your dinner the most talked about (in a good way)! I host the major holidays almost every year for my rather large family and no matter how many times I do it, it never fails that on the morning of, I suddenly remember something that I forgot to buy or something that broke the last holiday and I never replaced. By then, it is too late to do anything but improvise! So, now you can learn from my forgetfulness. I have compiled a list of some must-have items, as well as some fun items, you'll need (or want) to host Thanksgiving this year.
If you read our article about planning your Thanksgiving gathering, then you are ahead of the game already and just need this shopping list for supplies and another one for the grocery store. If you didn't read about how to plan to host your holiday gathering, then you can read about it here. You may definitely want to take a look at it if this is your first Thanksgiving as host. It may seem fine now, but come Thanksgiving morning, trust me, everything you didn't think about before or anything you forgot to do will suddenly hit you.
Cooking & Serving
Other than the people surrounding your table, everyone knows that the food on it is the second most important part of a yummy feast! Here are a few items that will help you prepare and serve your menu.
1. Pyrex Easy Grab 2-Piece Glass Pie Plate Set
If you intend to bake homemade pies for dessert, you can't go wrong with these Pyrex pie plates. I have several of them myself because they are just the right size, have a decent price, and work well. And remember, your pies can be made a couple of days ahead of time so don't be afraid to give it a try, even if you need to use store-bought pie crust. Don't forget to add the whipped cream to your shopping list!
2. Granite Ware Covered Oval Roaster
If you plan to use your oven to roast your turkey, then this Granite Ware roasting pan is the perfect size for your turkey! It will hold up to a 10-pound turkey and the enameled, non-stick surface makes cleanup practically effortless.
3. Chefman 14 Quart Roaster Oven Cooker w/High Dome Self-Basting Lid
There are a few reasons why a roaster is a better choice for preparing your turkey. Some of these reasons are: save on oven space, your turkey is too large to fit in your oven, or it is just easier, in my opinion. I prefer using a roaster rather than my oven for all three of those reasons. This Chefman 14-quart roaster is the perfect way to cook your turkey. With enough space to roast a large turkey, up to 20 pounds, this roaster also comes with a removable rack and a pan for catching the juices, making cleanup a breeze.
4. Oster Roaster Oven with Self-Basting Lid
If you're looking for a roaster that will handle just about anything, look no further than the Oster 22-quart roaster. This bad boy can roast a 26-pound turkey or cook up to 24 servings of delicious food. It's also nonstick, so cleanup is easy. Now you can host Thanksgiving dinner like a pro!
5. Plasticpro 6 Sectional Round Plastic Serving Tray
This Plasticpro sectional round serving tray is perfect for serving dinner, appetizers, or even dessert! The tray is divided into six sections, so you can easily serve different dishes at the same time. The tray is made from durable plastic, so it can be easily cleaned after the meal.
6. Prodyne Appetizers On Ice with Lids
What could be more perfect for your meal than a Prodyne appetizer tray with lids? These ingenious little dishes fit inside the tray of ice to keep your hors d'oeuvres cold and fresh, so you can focus on the main event. Whether you're serving up a traditional turkey day spread like cranberry sauce, or something a little more out-of-the-box, this Prodyne appetizer tray is sure to please.
7. LIFVER Large Serving Platters
The LIVFER large serving platter set is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving spread. The set includes three large serving platters, making it the perfect way to serve up all of your delicious dishes. The platters are made from high-quality ceramic, making them durable and easy to clean. The stylish design is sure to add a touch of elegance to your dinner.
8. SOLEADER Mini Serving Tongs
Looking for the perfect kitchen tool to help with your feast? SOLEADER has the answer – Mini Serving Tongs! These handy little tongs are just the right size for picking up small items like olives or pickles, and they’re also great for serving food or bite-sized dessert. Plus, they’re made of durable stainless steel, so they can handle even the messiest dishes.
9. KitchenAid Gourmet Stainless Steel Wire Masher
This masher is perfect for those who want to achieve a perfectly smooth mashed potato texture. The wire head is specially designed to break up potatoes and other root vegetables, such as sweet potatoes, quickly and easily, while the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable grip. Whether you're a novice cook or a seasoned pro, the KitchenAid Gourmet Stainless Steel Wire Masher is sure to make your meal a success. It can be purchased separately, or together with a can opener, a slotted spoon, or even a peeler...whatever you need to make your meal a success!
10. OXO Good Grips Good Gravy 4-Cup Fat Separator
This little gadget from OXO is a lifesaver if gravy is on the menu! The fat separator allows you to pour gravy, stock, or any other liquid from the roasting pan without all the fat. The separator has a button for releasing the broth from the bottom, leaving the fats behind, and a strainer on top to catch all the bits of turkey meat, vegetables, or herbs. It's made of durable plastic and is dishwasher safe. This is a must-have for any delicious feast! Based on experience, though, watch a YouTube video about how to use a fat separator first, because using it incorrectly creates quite a mess to clean up!
11. Sweese Gravy Boat and Tray
Serve in style with this gravy boat and tray set from Sweese. Made of high-quality porcelain, the set is both durable and elegant. The boat holds up to 16 ounces of gravy, while the tray can be used to serve sides or desserts. Both pieces are microwave and dishwasher-safe, making them easy to clean. With its simple design, this set is perfect for any meal.
12. OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Carving Fork
Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can be a daunting task, but with the right tools it can be a breeze! The OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Carving Fork is the perfect tool for the job. With its sharp, stainless steel tines, it makes slicing through roasted poultry simple. The comfortable, non-slip grip makes it easy to hold, even when your hands are covered in gravy. And the dishwasher-safe design means you can just toss it in the dishwasher when you're done. So if you're looking for a carving fork that will make your turkey carving a success, look no further than the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Carving Fork. Also available are a ladle, a slotted spoon, a serving spoon, a ladle with a set of locking tongs, and a turner, everything you need for serving your meal!
13. BLACK+DECKER Electric Carving Knife
This BLACK+DECKER Electric Carving Knife is the perfect tool to have on hand for your holiday feast. The knife is easy to use and quickly carves through meat and poultry, making it a breeze to prepare your turkey. With its sharp blades that never need sharpened, the knife effortlessly slices through even the toughest meats, so you can finish quickly for more quality time with your family and friends.
14. Corelle Livingware Winter Frost White Serving Platter
This Corelle Livingware Winter Frost White 12-1/4" Serving Platter is just the right size for serving turkey. The pretty white design is perfect for any holiday table. The platter is durable and dishwasher safe, so it's easy to clean up after the big turkey meal.
15. Pfaltzgraff Autumn Berry Oval Platter
This Pfaltzgraff Autumn Berry Oval Platter is the perfect way to show your Thanksgiving guests that you've got your hosting game on point! The beautiful design and autumn colors are sure to impress, and the platter is big enough to hold plenty of food. Whether you're serving up a traditional holiday feast or something a little more nontraditional, this platter is a must-have for the table.
16. William Roberts 17" Oval Turkey Platter
This turkey platter by William Roberts is a must-have for your Thanksgiving meal! The beautiful, molded design will look elegant and festive for generations to come. The platter is made of glazed ceramic and is microwave and dishwasher-safe, not to mention, large enough to hold an entire turkey!
17. GoGeiLi Pie Cake Server
If you're looking for a simple way to serve pie, cake, and dessert during the holidays, look no further than the GoGeiLi Pie Cake Server! This 9.3-inch stainless steel server is the perfect size for both pies and cakes, and its curved design makes it easy to grip and handle. Plus, the set of three servers means that you'll have one for every dessert on your counter!
18. Professional Pie Server Set
If you're looking for an impressive way to serve pies, look no further than the Chef Owl Professional Pie Server Set. This set includes a cutting spatula and a serving knife, both made of 100% stainless steel. They're durable and easy to clean, making them the perfect tools for any pie-serving occasion. With the Chef Owl Professional Pie Server Set, you'll be able to effortlessly slice and serve pies like a pro!
19. Thanksgiving Tablecloths
Bring the beauty of fall to your dining room with Tudomro's plastic tablecloths! This set of 3 tablecloths that are designed in rich autumn colors, featuring leaves, pumpkins, and turkeys in beautiful detail. Perfect for a festive and fun ambiance.
20. Ruisita 2 Pack Fall Leaf Tablecloths
Russia 2 Pack Fall Leaf Tablecloths are made of durable plastic, making them perfect for your holiday feast. The tablecloths feature colorful leaves in autumnal shades of orange, yellow, and red. They're a great way to add a touch of seasonal style to your dining. Plus, the plastic material is easy to clean up, so you can focus on quality time.
21. Midsummer Breeze Rustic Gingham Tablecloth
This Midsummer Breeze Rustic Gingham Tablecloth is ideal for your next Thanksgiving get-together! The classic gingham print is great for any rustic or vintage-themed event, and the 100% cotton fabric is soft and comfortable. Plus, the tablecloth is machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, so it's easy to keep clean and looking great. Order yours today and be prepared for your most stylish holiday yet!
22. Newbridge Pumpkin Vines Stone Washed Bordered Fabric Tablecloth
This festive tablecloth will help to create a warm and inviting atmosphere. Made of 100% polyester, it is soft to the touch and features a beautiful pumpkin vine design. The bordered edge adds a touch of elegance, while the stone-washed finish gives it a rustic look. Whether you are hosting a large gathering or just a few people, this tablecloth is sure to make your day memorable.
23. ECOLipak Compostable 3 Compartment Plates
ECOLipak's disposable compostable plates are a great way to reduce your environmental impact this Thanksgiving. Made of plant-based materials, these plates can be composted after use, making them a more sustainable option than traditional disposable plates. With three compartments, these plates are perfect for serving all of your menu favorites.
24. 100% Compostable 5 Compart Plates
Planning a delicious and eco-friendly feast? Start off on the right foot with Go Green Tableware 100% Compostable 5 Compart Plates! These plates are made from plant-based materials and can be easily composted after use. Plus, they're sturdy enough to handle even the heaviest of Thanksgiving foods.
25. Disposable Paper Napkins for Autumn Party Decorations
Add a festive touch to your menu with these disposable paper napkins from Gatherfun! Each napkin measures 6.5 inches square and is made of 3-ply paper for added strength. The fun, fall themed design will brighten up your decor and make cleanup easy.
26. C.R. Gibson Hello Fall Disposable Paper Dinner Napkins
Fall is in the air and that means it's time to start planning for Thanksgiving! These disposable paper dinner napkins from C.R. Gibson are perfect for the occasion. They feature a festive fall design with pumpkins, and they're absorbent enough to clean up any messes. Plus, they're disposable so you can just toss them in the trash when you're done. Whether this is your first Thanksgiving as host, or you're a seasoned pro, these napkins will help make your gathering a success.
27. Party Bargains Disposable Cutlery Set
The Party Bargains Disposable Cutlery set is perfect for hosting the holidays while reducing your carbon footprint. These sturdy knives, forks, and spoons are made from heavy-duty materials so they can be used over and over after being hand-washed. They're also BPA-free, so you can feel good about using them. Best of all, they come in a pretty sapphire design that will add a touch of elegance to your dining.
28. Plastic Silverware Set
The Tepco Settings Plastic Silverware Set is perfect for hosting a low-waste meal! This set includes all of the utensils you need to enjoy your food, without creating any unnecessary waste. The durable plastic construction means that you can use these utensils again and again, without having to worry about them breaking or becoming stained. Plus, the bright silver color will add a touch of elegance to your place setting.
29. 10 oz Plastic Cups
These 10-oz Plastic Cups in assorted colors are a fun addition to your supper. They're sturdy and disposable, so you can easily clean up after the meal, or you can choose to wash and use them again at your next gathering.
30. Igloo Party Bucket Cooler
This Igloo Party Bucket Cooler is perfect for keeping your drinks cold while you're celebrating with your loved ones. The cooler has a 20-quart capacity so it'll hold approximately 24 cans with ice, making it the ideal size for your party. The insulated body prevents sweating and the attached drain plug makes it easy to remove the water after the ice has melted.
31. Double-Wall Stainless Steel Insulated Ice Bucket With Lid and Ice Tong
This FineDine Double-Wall Stainless Steel Insulated Ice Bucket With Lid and Ice Tong is useful way to keep your ice cold while you're cooking up a turkey feast. The double-wall insulation ensures that your ice doesn't melt too quickly. The included ice tongs make it easy to grab a piece of ice for your drink, without having to worry about getting your hands wet.
32. Valery Madelyn Fall Arrangement Decor
This Thanksgiving, impress your guests with your unique sense of style by using the Valery Madelyn Fall Arrangement Decor. This beautiful centerpiece is made with maple leaves, pumpkin acorns, and pine cones, and is displayed in a metal planter. Whether you're hosting a small family gathering or a large Thanksgiving feast, this centerpiece is sure to add a touch of hominess to your dinner decor.
33. Pinata Thanksgiving Garden Flag
This festive Pinata Garden Flag is the perfect way to welcome your guests this holiday season! Made of durable, weather-resistant fabric, it's double-sided so everyone can see your holiday spirit from either direction. The vibrant colors and adorable design are sure to add some fun and festivity to your home this season! Available in two sizes.
No matter what you plan to cook for your holiday feast in the days ahead, just remember, the time with each other is what is most important. Yes, there are certain menu items that everyone looks forward to, like turkey, sweet potatoes, and even pies with whipped cream for dessert. But, even if something goes wrong and all you get to serve is store-bought crackers, enjoy the moments that go by all too quickly.
People will probably complain on the big day about eating store-bought crackers instead of juicy turkey, but in years to come, looking back, it will be a funny story to recall with future generations. That's when you'll realize that the big day was actually all about making memories to carry with you in the days ahead. That, my friends, is priceless.