The secret to a calm holiday meal is a schedule. Here's a sample timeline for a 5:00 PM dinner with a 14-pound turkey. Adjust the times to fit your own dinner hour.
The week before
- Saturday or Sunday: move the turkey to the fridge to thaw (about 3 to 4 days for 14 pounds).
- Tuesday: shop for fresh produce. Make cranberry sauce, which keeps well.
- Wednesday: bake pies, chop vegetables, cube bread for stuffing, and set the table.
Thanksgiving Day
| Time | Task |
|---|---|
| 10:30 AM | Take the turkey out of the fridge. Remove the giblets and pat it dry. |
| 11:00 AM | Heat the oven to 325°F. |
| 11:30 AM | Turkey goes in the oven (about 3 to 3½ hours unstuffed). |
| 1:00 PM | Prep side dishes. Make stuffing in a casserole dish. |
| 2:30 PM | Start checking the turkey's temperature. |
| 3:00 PM | Peel and boil potatoes. |
| 3:30 PM | Turkey reaches 165°F. Take it out and cover loosely with foil to rest. |
| 3:45 PM | Raise the oven heat and bake stuffing and casseroles while the turkey rests. |
| 4:15 PM | Make gravy from the pan drippings. Mash the potatoes. |
| 4:30 PM | Warm the rolls and carve the turkey. |
| 5:00 PM | Dinner is served! |
Tips for a smoother day
- Use the resting time. A turkey stays hot for 30 to 45 minutes under foil, which frees the oven for sides.
- Use other appliances. Slow cookers keep mashed potatoes warm, and the stovetop handles green beans and gravy.
- Make a list. Tape your timeline to a cabinet door.
Get your exact times: The Turkey Planner builds your thawing and oven schedule from your bird's weight and your dinner time.
Open the Turkey Planner →
Open the Turkey Planner →