Thanksgiving always seems to sneak up, doesn’t it? One minute you’re admiring the fall
leaves, and the next you’re elbow-deep in mashed potatoes wondering who used up the last of the chicken broth.
This year, before the rush begins, try running a “Thanksgiving Pantry Mock-Run.” Think of it as a dress rehearsal for your
kitchen.
Step 1: Take Inventory Before the Crowd Arrives
Grab a notepad, open your pantry, and pretend Thanksgiving dinner is tomorrow. What would you need to make your signature dishes? Maybe it’s chicken broth for stuffing, flour for
gravy, sugar for pies, foil for covering casseroles, or cinnamon for that homemade applesauce.
As you think through each dish, pull the key ingredients off the shelves and line them up on your counter. You’ll probably realize a few things are running low or missing
entirely.
Do you have enough foil and plastic wrap? How about parchment paper, pie plates, and serving dishes? A little pre-check now saves a last-minute grocery store run later.
Step 2: Designate a “Holiday Shelf”
Once you’ve gathered your Thanksgiving must-haves, clear a dedicated spot in your pantry (a single shelf, box, or even a labeled bin) and call it your Holiday Shelf.
Label it clearly so everyone in your household knows it’s off-limits until the big day. This prevents those “Who used the last bit of foil?!” moments that always seem to happen at the worst possible time.
Step 3: Shop Smart and Early
Now that you know what you have and what you need, you can shop strategically, before stores become crowded and picked over.
Stock up on non-perishables first: spices, canned goods, and baking
staples. You can also buy anything frozen and store those items in your freezer.
Then, make a list so that (closer to the holiday), you'll know exactly what perishables you need to shop for...like fresh herbs, butter, and produce.
If freezer space allows, you can even prep a few dishes ahead of time, such as pie crusts or homemade stock.
Step 4: Keep It Organized Until Show Time
As Thanksgiving week approaches, keep your holiday shelf neat and visible. This makes it easy to spot what’s ready to go and what still needs attention.
A Thanksgiving Pantry Mock-Run makes a world of difference. Instead of scrambling for
cornstarch or sage at the eleventh hour, you’ll glide through meal prep knowing your kitchen is stage-ready.
Come Thanksgiving morning, your biggest decision will be whether to start with coffee or tea while the turkey roasts...and that’s exactly how it should
be.
P.S. Need some help finding the perfect holiday gift for the guy who seems to have everything? My carefully curated list is packed with clever, useful,
and good-looking finds that combine practicality with a touch of fun. Perfect for husbands, dads, brothers, or friends! Visit:
