How to save money on Thanksgiving dinner: these ‘keep it simple’ tips can help

It is natural that Thanksgiving can cause pressure on hosts and home chefs to prepare. This year, however, rising grocery prices are adding to the stress.

Turkey prices will rise due to inflation and an outbreak of avian influenza. The U.S. Department of Food and Agriculture predicts a 23% increase in fourth-quarter prices compared to last.

We asked Institute of Culinary Education Chef-Instructor Stephen Chavez to help us find money-saving ideas.

His top tip? Keep it simple. This will help you save time and money. This will help you save money, and allow you to spend more time with your guests.

He says, “It’s really all about family and getting along.” “I believe people need to simplify.”

Here are seven tips by Chavez to cut down on Thanksgiving costs.

1. Roast chicken is better than turkey

Turkey may be the traditional Thanksgiving bird, but it doesn’t necessarily mean that you have to have it at your table. Chavez suggests that you choose a different bird to save money.

He says, “I have heard that turkey prices are way up.” A whole chicken can be bought, and a full chicken will feed four people.

You don’t necessarily need to have a lot of leftovers if you aren’t hungry for those Black Friday turkey leftover turkey sandwiches.

2. Concentrate on the smaller portions

Thanksgiving is known as a luxurious holiday. Many people eat too much and end up throwing away the leftovers.

However, we don’t have to do this. Reducing the portion size can help you save money and possibly avoid stomach pain.

Chavez advises that if you really want turkey, it is better to buy a breast than a whole bird.

3. Be aware of trends

To be memorable, a holiday does not have to be expensive. You don’t need to be a celebrity chef to make your holiday special.

Chavez states, “You don’t have to make a charcuterieboard.” You don’t have to make a butterboard.

Trendy dishes that call for multiple ingredients can increase your grocery bill quicker than tryptophan.

4. Do not buy pre-made sides

You can find many pre-made options to host such as dips, cheese trays, and pies. However they might be more expensive.

Chavez advises, “Don’t buy pre-made products.” It’s much more expensive to make your own.

He suggests that instead of buying pumpkin pie, you can make your own pumpkin pie by buying a canned pumpkin pie filling. He says it will be cheaper than buying pre-made pumpkin pie. You can find recipes online.

5. Make the most of what you already own

Chavez suggests that Thanksgiving is a time to clean out your cabinets and make some creative Thanksgiving dishes.

It’s all about using what you have. You can make stuffing from bread ends. Half a carrot, half an onion, and half a potato can all be added to the stuffing. Side dishes like creamed corn and frozen vegetables are possible with the help of frozen vegetables.

Chavez states, “It’s an excellent time to use up the things you’ve had for awhile that you can use in smart ways.”

6. Opt for a Thanksgiving potluck

Chavez suggests that you can save money by attending a potluck.

Instead of assuming all responsibility, consider a potluck. Invite your guests to bring a side dish, such as a salad, mashed potatoes, or dessert. You can also take on the turkey (or chicken), and maybe some other dishes.

The host is relieved of cost responsibility by spreading out the costs.

7. Consider how you shop

After you have created a plan for Thanksgiving, be strategic when shopping. Take into account the geography of your grocery store. Consider areas such as the frozen section. Think about what you can do with inexpensive staples, and where you are shopping.

 

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