The Perfect Thanksgiving Meal for 10 Guests

Creating a memorable Thanksgiving meal for 10 guests can seem daunting, but with a few easy steps, it can be a breeze. Here’s a guide to setting up a delicious and satisfying feast without the hassle.

Assumptions for this Guide

Before we dive into the details of the meal, let’s make a few assumptions: no allergies, no religious restrictions, no desire for large leftovers, and minimal cooking effort.

The Main Component: The Turkey

First and foremost, you’ll need a turkey. The size of the bird depends on your preferences: a pound per person is a common guideline, but if you enjoy leftovers, you might opt for a larger bird. For a party of 10, I recommend a 15-17 pound turkey. To give it extra flavor, brine the turkey before cooking it. This involves soaking the turkey in a mixture of salt, sugar, and spices to infuse it with moisture and flavor. Next, pat the turkey dry, rub it with softened butter, and smoke it for a perfectly cooked Thanksgiving bird. Smoke it over apple or cherry wood for a delicious, smoky flavor.

Must-Include Side Dishes: Mashed Potatoes and Gravy

No Thanksgiving meal is complete without mashed potatoes. For ten people, you’ll need about eight large potatoes. Boil them until they are tender, then mash them with butter, salt, and pepper. Feel free to add milk or cream for a richer texture. If you’re a fan of homemade gravy, start with the giblet bag that comes with most turkeys. Boil the giblets to create a rich stock, then season it to taste. You can either add the pre-mixed gravy packet or simply thicken the stock with flour and stir in some turkey drippings. For an extra touch, add thinly sliced mushrooms towards the end of cooking.

A Classic Addition: Dressing

While some might argue over whether it is dressing or stuffing, I believe that both have their place. However, a classic Thanksgiving favorite is Stove Top stuffing. Opt for two boxes to cater to ten people, and mix in some extra ingredients like an onion and a bit of parsley. Use chicken stock instead of water for a richer flavor. If you want to get creative, you can customize the stuffing with additional ingredients like dried fruits, nuts, or herbs.

Sweet and Savory Snacks: Potato Chips and Chocolate Kisses

To start or end the meal, keep everyone happy with a community bowl of potato chips and individual bowls of Hershey’s Kisses. Encourage guests to alternate between the salty and sweet treats. This simple indulgence will add a fun touch to the evening while keeping everyone’s palates satisfied.

Conclusion

With these simple guidelines, you can create a delightful Thanksgiving meal for 10 guests that is both delicious and easy to prepare. Remember, the key is in the details, and by following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to a memorable feast. Happy Thanksgiving!