Thanksgiving is More Than a Meal, It’s a Gathering of Hearts
Thanksgiving is more than just a meal, it’s a gathering of hearts, a celebration of gratitude, and a moment to nourish both body and soul. It doesn’t matter if you are hosting a large family reunion or an intimate dinner with close friends, there is one question that always lingers for holiday hosts, “How much food should I make for Thanksgiving Dinner?”
How Much Food Should I Make for Thanksgiving Dinner?
And, it is a delicate balance. If you make too little, your guests might leave a bit (shall we say) “peckish.” If you make too much food, you might find yourself eating turkey sandwiches until December. So let’s find that sweet spot with this thoughtful guide on how much to prepare per person for your Thanksgiving dinner.
🦃 Turkey
It’s the star of the show, so we cannot discuss anything else without talking about the turkey. For the turkey, we recommend 1½ pounds of bone-in turkey per person.
🧀 Appetizers / Hors d’Oeuvres
For appetizers or hors d’ oeuvres, you should plan on preparing 4 to 6 bite-sized pieces per person.
If your guests will be snacking while watching the big football game or waiting for dinner to be served, aim for the higher end. Think deviled eggs, mini meatballs and veggie platters. You want to make just enough to whet the appetite without stealing the show from the main course.
🦃 Gravy
Boy of boy, do I love good gravy! It’s the unsung hero of Thanksgiving because it literally ties everything together. Whether it’s poured over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, make sure there’s enough for generous helpings. I recommend ½ cup per person, and maybe a little extra for the gravy lovers.
🥖 Rolls
Warm dinner rolls are a must. People will want one for the main meal and one for sopping up the leftovers on their plate, so I recommend two (2) rolls per person.
🥗 Green Salad
A nice green salad offers a refreshing balance to the richness of the rest of your holiday meal. I recommend 1½ cups of a simple green salad per person to complement heavier dishes.
🧀 Macaroni and Cheese
This comfort food classic is a staple at many holiday tables. I love macaroni and cheese so much! With this creamy, cheesy dish, a little will go a long way, so the recommended serving is ½ cup per person. But, you might want to double it if you have mac ‘n cheese fanatics in your home like I do.
🍞 Stuffing (or Dressing)
Whether it’s baked inside the bird or in a dish of its own, stuffing is a sacred Thanksgiving dish. I recommend preparing ¾ cup per person for this warm, herb-filled goodness.
🍇 Cranberry Sauce
Tangy, sweet, and sometimes a little tart, cranberry sauce adds a beautiful contrast to the savory dishes being served. It may not be everyone’s favorite holiday dish, but I recommend ½ cup per person. Just in case.
🍰 Cake or Pie
Thanksgiving dessert is non-negotiable, so don’t make your guests choose just one. Prepare 2 slices per person because it allows for a little variety, and a lot of happiness.
🥤 Non-Alcoholic Beverages
Prepare to make 2 cups of non-alcoholic beverages per dinner guest. Water, cider, tea, or a signature mocktail will keep your guests hydrated and refreshed throughout the evening.
🍷 Wine
Most will tell you that ½ to 1 bottle per person will suffice. I believe that wine consumption can vary because it is based on your dinner crowd. If your dinner guests enjoy a good toast or two, one bottle per adult might be appropriate. For a lighter celebration, half a bottle is usually just right.
Okay, that’s it for now, friends! I hope this answer that nagging questions, “How much food should I make for Thanksgiving Dinner or Holiday Dinner?” Please know that the serving suggestions noted in this post are a helpful starting point, but don’t forget to sprinkle in some grace, laughter and love into everything you make. After all, it’s not just a meal, it’s a part of your family members’ core memories. Enjoy!
Are You Ready to Create Your Worry-Free Holiday Dinner?
Do you need assistance planning for your worry-free holiday dinner? Please don’t hesitate to contact me today. I love helping dinner hosts create a gorgeous dinner experiences.
Love and Soul Always, Kawania
Photo: Shutterstock
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