Thanksgiving is all about bringing loved ones together for a day of gratitude, delicious food, and cozy memories. Whether you’re hosting Thanksgiving for the first time or are a seasoned pro, having the right essentials can make all the difference. Here’s a list of must-have items to make sure your Thanksgiving is stress-free, beautiful, and memorable!
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1. A Solid Roasting Pan (or a plan to cook the turkey!)
- Thanksgiving isn’t Thanksgiving without a turkey, and a high-quality roasting pan with a rack is essential. Opt for a sturdy, deep pan that can handle a large bird and any juices for gravy-making later. Stainless steel or nonstick options work well and are easy to clean.
- Here in FL, my husband usually opts to fry the turkey or smoke it on the grill!
Let’s Shop:
Here are links to some great roasting pan options: stainless steel, or this one with a lid.
2. Meat Thermometer
- Avoid the dreaded undercooked turkey (or overcooked, dry turkey!) by using a meat thermometer. This ensures your bird is cooked perfectly without having to cut into it multiple times. A digital, instant-read thermometer is quick, accurate, and easy to use.
Let’s Shop:
Here is a link to a classic, cost effective, easy to read meat thermometer with great reviews! Click here
3. Serving Platters and Bowls
- Thanksgiving dishes deserve beautiful presentations, so be sure to have enough large platters and serving bowls for your turkey, sides, and desserts. Neutral or fall-colored ceramic or glass serving dishes add elegance and are versatile enough to use for other occasions.
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Check out this set of 3 classic white serving platters.
Here is another option with pretty gold detail!
This beautiful pumpkin shaped baker would be such a festive touch!
4. Smaller Serving-ware: Gravy Boat and Salt & Pepper Shakers!
- A gravy boat may seem like a minor detail, but it’s a Thanksgiving staple! Choose one with a handle and a pour spout to avoid messy drips and spills. If you like to keep your gravy warm, consider one that’s microwave-safe.
- Avoid the mistake I made the first year and don’t forget cute salt & pepper shakers for the table! Remember, you may need multiple sets if you plan to use more than one table.
Let’s Shop:
This is a great gravy boat option: comes with a saucer and a ladle! Great to prevent drips. It’s also microwave safe!
I love these salt & pepper shakers because they are neutral, they give an autumn feel but can be used for other occasions as well.
If more Thanksgiving themed is your vibe – check out these cute options! Click here for “give thanks” pumpkin s&p, or click here for turkey s&p.
5. Pie Dishes
- Pumpkin, pecan, apple – whatever your pie choices, a good pie dish is a must. Glass or ceramic pie plates help your pies bake evenly, and they also look lovely on the table. Don’t forget to have pie servers on hand for easy slicing and serving.
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Here is a set of 2 gorgeous pie dishes – with 2000+ 5 star reviews! These would definitely impress at the table!
This is the exact pie server I have. I prefer to have a serrated edge. It’s a good idea to have a couple of these on hand!
6. Elegant Table Linens
- The table is the focal point of Thanksgiving, so dress it up! A quality tablecloth or runner, paired with cloth napkins in fall colors like rust, mustard, or deep green, adds warmth and style. Linen and cotton are great, washable options that look sophisticated without too much fuss.
Let’s Shop:
There are so many tablecloths to choose from, and of course depends on the size and shape of your table as well. But if you’re stuck, this is a pretty option and even has matching cloth napkins!
Here is a traditional table runner idea.
If there will be many children at your Thanksgiving dinner, I highly recommend a coloring tablecloth to keep them busy while the food is being prepped and/or after they eat! Another idea is individual coloring placemats, so they can take them home! Click here for an affordable set of 12!
7. Matching Dinnerware and Silverware
- If there’s any time to break out your best plates, Thanksgiving is it! If you don’t have a complete set, consider adding some fall-inspired accent pieces, like salad plates or chargers, to bring everything together. Make sure you have enough forks, knives, and spoons for each guest (plus a few extras).
- Of course you may also choose to use disposable, festive dinnerware. In which case don’t forget all the pieces – dinner plates, dessert/appetizer plates, napkins & silverware.
8. Wine Glasses and Drinkware
- A variety of glassware helps cover all the drink options – wine glasses for red and white wines, water glasses, and maybe even festive mugs for post-dinner coffee or tea. If you’re serving signature cocktails, consider a pitcher or carafe to keep the drinks flowing with minimal hassle.
9. Large Serving Utensils
- Having enough large spoons, forks, and tongs is key to serving Thanksgiving sides smoothly. Look for serving spoons with long handles, and make sure each dish has its own dedicated utensil to keep the serving line moving without mixing flavors.
Let’s Shop:
Here is a set of serving utensils that has everything you need for around 20 bucks – even includes a pie server!
10. Festive Decor
- Lastly, add some festive touches! Candles, mini pumpkins, and a simple centerpiece can turn your table into a warm, inviting space. You could also use natural elements like fall leaves, pinecones, or eucalyptus sprigs for a seasonal, eco-friendly touch. Just make sure not to overcrowd the table – you need space for all that food!
Let’s Shop:
these velvet pumpkins are very on trend right now and would look nice mixed in with these candles!
Bonus Tips:
- Don’t forget extra seating! If you’re hosting a larger crowd, make sure you have enough chairs or benches for everyone.
- Plan for leftovers by having containers or foil on hand so guests can take home some Thanksgiving goodness! I like to get a bunch of these Glad containers to send home with guests!
- Music or a playlist can set a relaxing, festive atmosphere and help fill any awkward silences as everyone settles in.
Having these essentials on hand will take the stress out of hosting, allowing you to focus on enjoying the day with your loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving and happy hosting!