Thanksgiving Dinner On A Dime!

 

This year many are struggling and the thought of shelling out a bunch of money on a holiday dinner might seem impossible but don’t despair.  You can still pull this off if you are of a mind to.  Instead of cooking a turkey with all the trimmings simply scale it back a bit and you’ll be able to put a beautiful holiday meal on the table with very little out of pocket.

 

I made up one can of pumpkin into pie filling and
divided it between two small 8 inch homemade pie crusts

Chicken & Gravy

Mashed Potatoes

Stuffing

Vegetables

Dinner Rolls & Butter

Dessert

Chicken or turkey leg quarters will work too!

 

These roasted up beautifully!

You will need:

 

One Whole Chicken (a Costco rotisserie chicken is perfect for this application if you can)

Two packages of Idahoan buttery mashed potatoes

One box store brand stuffing (stove top style)

Vegetables – two cans of green beans, corn or a bag of frozen broccoli

One package dinner rolls (check your stores discount bakery rack)

Dessert – pumpkin or apple pie, brownie mix, ice cream or sherbet

 

Most of this was already lurking in the cupboards

If you have some sliced bread, cube some and
add to this box of stuffing to stretch it further

Shop your cupboards first to determine what you already have on hand so you won’t need to buy extra items.  If you can use pantry staples to bake rolls or desserts then do that rather than buy one.  Use the drippings from the chicken to make gravy.  Keep it simple and you’ll be amazed at how nice your holiday dinner will be.

 

Last year I did 2 Costco rotisserie chickens and a couple sides
My guests brought more sides and dessert!

If this seems like a lot to do on your own consider combing forces with friends and relatives and do a potluck.  Simply buy two chickens and make gravy using the drippings and a little bit of flour mixed with water for a slurry to thicken it.  If you don’t have flour don’t worry.  You only need a few tablespoons and someone you know will happily give it to you.  Have your guests bring the sides and desserts.  You will all enjoy a fabulous meal and fun spending the day together.

 

Lasagna is a delicious alternative to turkey dinner

Another thing you can do is just go with an non-traditional holiday meal using items you already have on hand.  A spaghetti supper with a loaf of frenchbread and cupcakes or homemade pizzas can be fun if the whole family gets involved.  Use your creativity to make it a special occasion.

 

Homemade pizza ready for the oven!

Food banks, churches & food pantries are great resources

If things are dire, set aside your pride and contact your area food bank, church or food pantry to get on the list for a Holiday food box.  There is absolutely no shame in asking for help when you truly need it and no one needs to go hungry.  Food pantries love to help so reach out and get what you need.