Yes, I really did document everything I do to get a turkey dinner for 12 on the table.
Buckle up buttercup!
Here is the real test of character. Getting the big meal prepared and on the table and still having enough energy to enjoy it!
Here we go-
The time you have to get up depends largely on the size of your turkey. I cook a 24 lb. turkey. It has to be in the oven by 9 for dinner around 4. 15 minutes per lb. If you have dinner earlier, people will be hungry again. Besides, this way, we get to watch the sunset over the lake.
I’m not a morning person, so I get up at 7 so I can putter and wake up. Have to have my coffee and quiet time. Do check to make sure the turkey is thawed. If not, put in a clean sink filled with cool water to finish thawing.
8 am-
____ Turn on oven. (350 F)
____ Wash turkey inside and out. Clear water only!
____ Prepare stuffing.
____ Stuff Turkey.
____ Put in roasting pan. If you are using a foil pan, place a large cookie sheet under it for support. It will be easier to maneuver.
____ Coat turkey with melted butter. I use at least ½ lb. at this point. Lightly sprinkle with garlic powder.
____ Put turkey in oven uncovered. (I know, everyone else tells you to cover it first. Try it my way. You will never have dry turkey again!)
____ Peel potatoes.
____ Put them in pot of water. You don’t have to cook them just yet.
____ Peel sweet potatoes.
____ Put them in pot of water.
____ Check Turkey every half hour. Baste. Most of our ovens don’t cook evenly. You may have to turn the turkey every so often to brown it evenly.
Geez, it’s only 9:30, take a break!
____ Are the wine and pop in the fridge? No room? If you live in a colder climate, put them outside. Otherwise, move them to a cooler.
____ Prepare sweet potato dishes. They will reheat nicely. Don’t put the marshmallows on yet.
____ Put carrots in pot of water if making. (If you use baby carrots, you won’t have to peel and cut up.) Boil until tender. Drain. Glaze with butter and brown sugar. Cover and set aside.
____ Put Cranberries, olives, and so forth, into their serving dishes. Cover with saran.
____ Check turkey every half hour or so. Give it a good basting. Only when it is nicely, evenly brown do you cover it. Give it a really good basting and cover roasting pan with cover, or if you are like me and use a foil pan, cover pan completely and securely with foil. Reduce oven to 325 F.
____ Set table.
____ Wash all of the dishes that have accumulated to this point.
Take a shower. Get yourself ready, except for final clothing change.
1 hour before turkey comes out:
____ Make mashed potatoes.
____ Make Gravy.
____ Make green bean casserole – set aside
____ Make corn casserole, if making – set aside
(I serve 2 vegetable dishes – have to have green bean casserole, and one other.)
½ hour before turkey comes out:
____ Change clothes. (an apron comes in handy now)
____ If you are making the mashed sweet potato dish, reheat and top with marshmallows.
____ If you’ve chosen fresh green beans with almonds instead of the green bean casserole – Steam Green Beans until crisp-tender- about 15 minutes. Watch carefully and do not overcook. Take the beans out of steamer basket and put directly in pot. Melt about 2 tablespoons butter and toss to coat well. Toss in almonds. Cover to keep warm.
The Final Dash
____ Take Turkey out. Make sure it is 165 degrees. Set aside for at least 15 minutes before attempting to cut.
____ Put Green bean and corn casseroles in oven
____ Start warming up all of the foods so they will be served hot.
____ Put sweet potatoes in oven to brown marshmallows.
____ Put rolls in the oven. (I like croissants because you don’t have to do this!)
Time to start getting it on the table!
Recruit help
____ Remove stuffing from turkey. Put in serving dish.
____ Have someone carve turkey.
____ Have others put warm foods into serving bowls and bring to table.
____ Have others take cold items to the table.
____ Have someone fill glasses.
Sit Down, Say Thanks. Let’s Eat!
You’ll have to adjust this schedule according to what you’re serving. You might want to copy and paste this checklist into word, make any changes you need according to what you are serving, and print it out. Then you can keep on track. Follow this recipe for a stress free holiday dinner.
Time and money saving tip – you can order all of your non-perishables from Walmart and pick them up for free on orders over $35. Or you can join Walmart+ and have them delivered. I’ve gotten spoiled with this service. That’s why I’m a Walmart Partner.
