10 Time-Saving Tips to Make Hosting Thanksgiving a Breeze

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Hosting Thanksgiving is rewarding but can be time-intensive. If you’re looking for ways to save time while still impressing guests, you’re in the right place. Here are 10 tips to make Thanksgiving easier, more enjoyable, and stress-free.

1. Plan the Menu Early and Use Kitchen Gadgets for Efficiency

Decide on your menu early and choose items that don’t require too much hands-on time. With gadgets like an Electric Carving Knife, you can speed up turkey carving and still get perfectly even slices.

• Hamilton Beach Electric Knife Set for Carving Meats, Poultry, Bread

• Cuisinart Electric Knife with Cutting Board, Stainless Steel/Black

• NutriChef Electric Carving Turkey Slicer Kitchen Knife | For Thanksgiving

2. Set Up a Buffet Station

Buffet-style serving keeps things easy for hosts and guests. Equip your buffet with essentials like Chafing Dishes to keep everything warm.

• Chefman Electric Buffet Server + Warming Tray

• Chafing Dish Buffet Set, Half Size (disposable)

3. Prep Desserts in Advance with Quality Bakeware

Desserts like pies can be made a day or two early. Get pie pans and cooling racks so your desserts are ready to go when guests arrive.

• OXO Good Grips Glass Pie Plate with Lid

• LE TAUCI Pie Pans for Baking 9 Inch, Ceramic Pie Plate for Apple Pie

• 9” Round Aluminum Foil Pans with Clear Lids (disposable)

4. Restock Essentials

Disposable dinnerware and napkins are lifesavers for large gatherings, so keep them stocked.

• 175 Piece Gold Dinnerware Set

• Gatherfun Thanksgiving Party Supplies Fallen Leaves Disposable Paper Napkins

5. Set a Kid-Friendly Table

If you’re expecting kids, a Thanksgiving Coloring Set will keep them busy and entertained.

• 21 Pack Disposable Fall Thanksgiving Placemats for Kids

• Fall Thanksgiving Coloring Poster 43.3x31.5 Inches Giant Drawing Paper Crafts for Kids Table

6. Offer a Self-Serve Drink Station

Let guests help themselves with a self-serve drink station. Use Drink Dispensers for easy access to water, cider, or cocktails.

• 1 Gallon Glass Drink Dispensers For Parties 2PACK

• CreativeWare Bark Beverage Dispenser, 2.5 Gallon

7. Use Slow Cookers for Side Dishes

Slow cookers are great for keeping side dishes warm and freeing up oven space

• Amazon Basics Stainless Steel 3 x 2.5 Quarts Triple Slow Cooker, Brushed Stainless Steel

• Crock-Pot 7 Quart Oval Manual Slow Cooker, Stainless Steel

  
  

8. Label Dishes for Dietary Needs

If guests have dietary restrictions, label each dish with its ingredients. A Mini Chalkboard Sign Set can make labeling easy and cute.

• Mini Chalkboard Signs, 20 Pack Framed Small Chalkboard Labels with Easel Stand

• 20 Pack Wood Mini Chalkboards Signs with Support Easels

9. Designate a Dessert & Coffee Station

Set up a separate area for desserts and coffee so guests can help themselves after dinner.

• Coffee Station Organizer, Coffee Cup Holder for Counter

• Large 3 Tier Serving Tray with Serving Stand

• 10 Pcs Cake Stand White Plastic Dessert Table Stand Set

10. Clean as You Go

Cleaning as you cook and serve saves time and hassle after dinner. Keep trash bags and disposable wipes close by for a quick cleanup.

• Amazon Basics Disinfecting Wipes, Lemon & Fresh Scent, Sanitizes

• Glad ForceFlex Drawstring Trash Bags, 13 Gal, Fragrance-Free

Hosting Made Easy

With a little planning and the right tools, hosting can be enjoyable and hassle-free. For more tips and time-saving tricks, follow us on Pinterest and Instagram as we share ideas throughout the season!

Check out more ideas on my Thanksgiving Pinterest Board.