Need Some Thanksgiving Menu Inspiration?

Need some inspiration to make your Thanksgiving extra special? These recipes, tips and more will help you design the perfect Thanksgiving menu.

HINT: Hover over the image, and click the circles for links to recipes, stories and more.

Planning your Thanksgiving menu doesn’t have to be daunting. Start by deciding what your must-have dishes are. For my family, it’s mashed potatoes, gravy and Brussels sprouts. We also like to have a turkey, though that’s never been as important as the side dishes (of course, that might change this year with my juicy slow cooker turkey breast). And appetizers! We love our little bites to nibble on before the big meal.

Once you decide what your must-haves are, start making a Thanksgiving menu. Go big with all your ideas, and then scale back to what’s actually doable (and not overboard). Once that’s done, make your shopping list.

HINT: Organize your shopping list by department. It will be easier to use, and will ensure that you don’t forget anything.

Finally, using your Thanksgiving menu, plan when and how you’ll cook everything. What can be made ahead? What needs to be made at the last minute? I like to have a schedule for cooking on Thanksgiving, as it reduces the stress of making everything.

Ready to get started? If you need some recipes, my site can totally help. Thanksgiving is my jam.

Whether you are searching for the perfect turkey recipe, the most craveworthy side dishes, or the sweetest Thanksgiving dessert to end your meal with, Sarah’s Cucina Bella is your source for all things Thanksgiving. For more than 11 years, this site has been sharing the best ideas for cooking, eating and celebrating joy on Thanksgiving and every day.

How will you celebrate joy this Thanksgiving?