Have a game plan for Thanksgiving dinner

For some of us, planning Thanksgiving dinner is an exciting “Iron Chef”-like challenge; for others, it’s more of an exercise in masochism. Whether you’re hosting your first Thanksgiving or your 50th, this is one meal that can be successfully tackled with a little planning and some tips.

First, figure out a head count. Then try to delegate as many dishes as you can.

Come up with a schedule for how you’ll tackle the recipes you’ll be using. Familiarize yourself with the recipes. Keep in mind things such as oven space and refrigerator room. Budget some wiggle room and allow time for errors, because something will always come up or go differently from what you planned (this happens even to the pros).

And try to do as much in advance as possible.

Here’s a sample Thanksgiving meal schedule, covering a few traditional dishes. Use this guide as you plan your own meal. Finally, remember to have fun.

Sunday:

Monday:

Tuesday:

Wednesday:

Thanksgiving Day:

Morning: Assemble appetizers and stock up on ice. Chill the beverages.

Midmorning: Stuff and roast the turkey.

Early afternoon: When the turkey is done, finish the gravy. Rest the turkey at least 45 minutes after it comes out, tented with foil, before carving. Finish the vegetables and the stuffing.

During dinner: Get a pot of coffee going; chill the beater and bowl so heavy cream is ready to whip for dessert.

This story was originally published November 19, 2013 at 11:15 AM.