Every year Thanksgiving Dinner is at my house. My family expects everything to be the same year after year, it’s tradition! By now I have this whole meal down pat; the menu, shopping list, and recipes are etched in my brain.

Each year I add a couple of new items to my menu, usually appetizers and desserts. I figure as long as I don’t mess with the classic menu items my family won’t rebel. This year I’m trying out 3 appetizers and 2 desserts, maybe some of them will make return appearances next year.
Even tho I can prepare this holiday meal in my sleep I still plan the meal as I would any other event I host. The key to a successful event is planning, in my world this means lists. I make a menu, a shopping list, and a timeline. This helps me budget my time and helps keep the holidays stress free.
Here is this year’s Thanksgiving menu. Links to recipes are also given. Click here for printable menu!
Appetizer
Spinach & Artichoke Bites. So easy to make!
Awesome Shrimp Scampi Cheese Dip w/ Crostini
Recipe click here!
Main Course & Sides
Roast Turkey w/ Simple Bread Stuffing
Learn how to roast turkey using large brown grocery bags.

Garlic Mashed Potato w/Gravy
Baby Carrots Glace
Potato Macaroni Salad
Candied Yams
Garlic Bread
Knots
Dessert
Upside Down Banana Foster Cake
Once I have my menu I can compile my shopping list with all the ingredients I will need for the menu items. I check off items I already have in my pantry and buy the rest.
I also take the time to jot down a timeline. This keeps me on track and makes the holiday stress free. This year I’m using a Fall cleaning schedule I found on line.
Planning Thanksgiving Dinner helps take the stress out of the event and allows me to enjoy my family and other guests on Thanksgiving day. Don’t forget to schedule some “me” time during this busy week; you’ll need a bit of R&R.
Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!