Recipe(tried): Thanksgiving Dinner - Planning and Cooking Suggestions, Menus and Recipes

There are many ideas posted here for holiday cooking schedules, so you can search and see what other people have had to say on the subject.

I do this: We cook the turkey in a smoker so that it is extremely flavorful, but doesn't use the oven. Before we had the smoker we used to cook the ham the day before and the turkey the day of. I would reheat the ham about 30 minutes before as the turkey rested. As it was reheating we would just baste the juices over it. All of your casseroles and side that need to go in the oven can usually be baked ahead of time and reheated in the oven or even in the microwave the day of. You might consider using a neighbors oven who will be out of town. Or you could ask your in town guests to bring some of the sides that need to be heated in the oven. Most of all remember that this is a family time, one to enjoy each other and be thankful that you are all together. Don't get so wrapped up in your cooking that you are unable to enjoy the day. Your friends and family will always be there even if your ham and turkey aren't the most perfect!

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Editor's note:
Planning the Ultimate Thanksgiving Feast
From: Gina, Fla 11-1-2001

Thanksgiving Dinner Tips
From: Judy 12-5-1997

Make Ahead Holiday Dinner Tips and Recipes
From: BRENDA J - OREGON 1-3-1998

Turkey Dinner Menu and Preparation Tips
JoAnn in Idaho - 6-26-1998

First Thanksgiving Dinner - Keep it simple, make lists, accept help, relax and enjoy!
From: Kelly~WA 10-27-2004

Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas
Kelly~WA - 11-20-2003

Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas
Emilee(Alberta) - 10-30-2000

First Thanksgiving Dinner Recipes and Menu Ideas
Jen,FL - 10-31-2004

Freeze Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes
Susan, Hawaii - 11-4-2004

Freeze Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes - Frozen Cranberry Salad, Potato Casserole, Creamed Spinach, Quick and Easy Pecan Pie
Cindy, San Jose CA - 11-7-2004

Make-ahead giblet bread stuffing/dressing
Kelly~WA - 11-20-2003

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Barbara/Oregon - 11-13-2003

Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes, Make Ahead Mashed Sweet Potatoes, Make Ahead Hot Artichoke Crab Dip

Make Ahead Turkey Gravy

Thanksgiving Dinner Menus and Recipes