8 Simple tools for a stress-less holiday, whether you're hosting the whole meal or bringing one dish.

Thanksgiving dinner doesn't need a kitchen full of fancy gadgets. With eight simple, hardworking tools, from a trusty meat thermometer to a slow cooker that frees up your oven, you can roast the turkey, keep the sides warm, and send everyone home with leftovers.
In my family, we all come together at my brother's home, and everyone brings a side or a dessert. Whether you're hosting the whole meal or bringing one dish, having the right few tools makes the day so much easier.
Here's what I'd reach for first.
In This Post

Instant-Read Meat Thermometer
If you only buy one thing on this list make it this one. A thermometer is the only way to know your turkey is safely done. No guessing, and no cutting into the bird to peek.

Roasting Pan with a Rack
The rack lifts the turkey up so hot air circulates and the skin browns all the way around. All those drippings collect in the pan, ready to stir into your gravy. Look for a pan with sturdy handles. That will be important when you're lifting your turkey out of the oven.

Slow Cooker
Fill it with apple cider, orange slices, and cinnamon sticks for an easy mulled cider, or use the warm setting to keep your sides warm. One less thing on the stovetop.

Hand Mixer
Store-bought pie plus homemade whipped cream is a winning combination. Pour cold heavy cream, a little maple syrup, and a pinch of cinnamon into a bowl and whip. Watch it whip fast.
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9x13 Baking Dish
Spread your stuffing in it and bake in uncovered for that golden, crispy top every fights over. It's also perfect for make-ahead sides and desserts like my Italian-Inspired Sausage Stuffing or Caramel Apple Cinnamon Rolls.

Rimmed Sheet Pans
Perfect for roasting potatoes until the edges are caramelized and browned, or toasting a batch of pecans to use as a topping. The rim keeps everything from sliding off when you pull from the oven.

Heavy Duty Foil
Tent the turkey while it rests, wrap the dinner rolls to keep them warm, and cover side dishes so they don't dry out.

Storage Containers
Send everyone home with leftovers. And no container returns needed.


💬 From My Table To Yours
You don't need loads of gadgets to make a memorable Thanksgiving. A few good tools, a little planning, and the people you love around the table. That's what it's all about.
Happy Thanksgiving!


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