Thanksgiving is all about gathering around the table with family and friends, sharing stories, and, of course, enjoying a delicious feast! When you’re hosting a large crowd, you want a recipe that’s not just tasty but also easy to manage. This Thanksgiving for a crowd recipe is your go-to solution for serving up an unforgettable holiday meal. Imagine the aroma of a beautifully roasted turkey wafting through your home, accompanied by all the classic sides that everyone loves. Trust me, this meal will have your guests raving and coming back for seconds (or thirds!). So, roll up your sleeves and let’s dive into making this Thanksgiving unforgettable!
Ingredients List
For this Thanksgiving feast, here’s everything you’ll need to create a mouthwatering meal for your guests. Make sure to grab the following ingredients:
- Turkey – 15 lbs, preferably fresh for the best flavor
- Butter – 1 cup, unsalted is best for seasoning
- Salt – 3 tbsp, to enhance the turkey’s natural flavors
- Pepper – 2 tsp, freshly ground if you can
- Garlic powder – 2 tsp, for that delicious savory kick
- Onion powder – 2 tsp, to add depth to the seasoning
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) – 1/4 cup, chopped for a fragrant touch
- Chicken broth – 4 cups, to keep the turkey moist
- Stuffing – 2 boxes, your favorite kind!
- Cranberry sauce – 2 cans, for that perfect sweet-tart balance
- Green beans – 2 lbs, fresh and vibrant
- Potatoes – 5 lbs, for creamy mashed potatoes
- Milk – 1 cup, to make the potatoes dreamy
- Gravy – 2 cups, store-bought or homemade, your choice!
How to Prepare Thanksgiving for a Crowd
Preparing a Thanksgiving feast for a crowd might seem daunting, but I promise it’s all about breaking it down into simple steps! First, let’s get that turkey ready, which is the star of the show. Preheat your oven to 325°F. While that’s heating up, take that beautiful 15-pound turkey and pat it dry with paper towels. This will help the skin get crispy! Now, it’s time to season: rub that turkey all over with softened butter, then generously sprinkle with salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and those fresh herbs. Don’t forget to stuff it with your favorite stuffing before tying the legs together. Place it in a roasting pan and pour in the chicken broth to keep it moist as it roasts. Pop that turkey in the oven for about 3 to 4 hours, basting every 30 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the internal temperature hits 165°F.
Preparing the Turkey
This is where the magic happens! After you’ve seasoned and stuffed your turkey, make sure to tie the legs securely with kitchen twine; this helps it cook evenly. When you place it in the oven, be sure to check the broth level occasionally, adding more if needed to prevent drying out. If you find the skin browning too quickly, just cover it loosely with aluminum foil. It’s crucial to let the turkey rest for about 30 minutes after roasting before you carve it; this helps the juices redistribute, making each slice super succulent!
Cooking the Sides
While your turkey works its magic, let’s tackle those delightful sides! Start with the mashed potatoes: peel and chop your potatoes, then boil them in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain them, then mash them with a cup of milk and season to taste with salt. For the green beans, simply trim the ends and steam them until they’re bright green and crisp-tender, about 5-7 minutes. They should retain that beautiful color and crunch! And don’t forget the gravy; just follow the package instructions for a quick and tasty addition. With everything coming together, you’ll have a feast that’s sure to impress!
Tips for Success
To ensure your Thanksgiving for a crowd goes off without a hitch, here are my top pro tips! First, always give yourself plenty of time; I recommend starting the prep the day before. You can even make the stuffing and cranberry sauce ahead of time. When it comes to the turkey, remember: patience is key! Basting regularly not only keeps it moist but enhances the flavor. Also, invest in a meat thermometer—it’s the best way to ensure your turkey is cooked perfectly without any guesswork. Finally, don’t forget to create a warm and inviting atmosphere; it’s all about making memories together around the table!
Nutritional Information
Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use. The information provided here is an estimate and not exact. It’s always best to check the labels of your ingredients for the most accurate nutritional information. Enjoy your meal with confidence!
FAQ Section
Got questions about making this Thanksgiving for a crowd? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered! One common question is, Can I prepare the turkey the night before? Absolutely! You can season and stuff it, then refrigerate it overnight. Just remember to bring it to room temperature before roasting. Another frequent query is, What if I don’t have enough oven space? No problem! You can cook the sides on the stovetop or even use a slow cooker for the stuffing or green beans. Also, How do I reheat leftovers? I recommend using the oven at 350°F for about 20-30 minutes, adding a splash of broth to keep everything moist. Lastly, Can I substitute the turkey for something else? For sure! A large ham or roast chicken works great for a crowd too. Just adjust your cooking times accordingly!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Effortless preparation that lets you enjoy the celebration with your loved ones
- Perfectly sized for large gatherings, ensuring everyone gets their fill
- Rich, delicious flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy
- Classic comfort dishes that evoke warm memories and togetherness
- Versatile enough to allow for your favorite sides and variations
- Impressive presentation that will wow your guests without stressing you out
- Leftovers that taste just as good the next day, perfect for cozy meals
Storage & Reheating Instructions
After enjoying your Thanksgiving feast, you’ll likely have some delicious leftovers! To store them properly, let everything cool down to room temperature first. Then, place the turkey, sides, and gravy in airtight containers. The turkey can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, while sides like mashed potatoes and green beans should be eaten within 3 days for the best quality.
When it’s time to reheat, the oven is your best friend! Preheat it to 350°F and cover the turkey with foil to prevent drying out. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist. For sides, you can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through. Enjoy those comforting leftovers!
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Thanksgiving for a Crowd: 7 Secrets for a Joyful Feast
- Total Time: 4 hours 30 minutes
- Yield: 12 servings
- Diet: Halal
Description
A perfect meal for a large gathering during Thanksgiving.
Ingredients
- Turkey – 15 lbs
- Butter – 1 cup
- Salt – 3 tbsp
- Pepper – 2 tsp
- Garlic powder – 2 tsp
- Onion powder – 2 tsp
- Fresh herbs (rosemary, thyme) – 1/4 cup
- Chicken broth – 4 cups
- Stuffing – 2 boxes
- Cranberry sauce – 2 cans
- Green beans – 2 lbs
- Potatoes – 5 lbs
- Milk – 1 cup
- Gravy – 2 cups
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 325°F.
- Prepare the turkey by rubbing butter, salt, pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and herbs all over it.
- Place the turkey in a roasting pan and add chicken broth to the bottom.
- Stuff the turkey with stuffing and tie the legs together.
- Roast the turkey for about 3 to 4 hours, basting every 30 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F.
- While the turkey cooks, boil the potatoes until tender.
- Mash the potatoes with milk and season with salt.
- Steam the green beans until bright green.
- Prepare gravy according to package instructions.
- Serve turkey with sides and enjoy your Thanksgiving feast.
Notes
- Let the turkey rest for 30 minutes before carving.
- You can prepare the stuffing a day in advance.
- Adjust cooking time based on the size of the turkey.
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 35g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: thanksgiving for a crowd
