Commonly Asked Thanksgiving Cooking Questions Answered
Today, our team of home cooks and Sparkle shoppers answer some of the most commonly asked Thanksgiving questions. Think: turkey thaw time, dry stuffing saviors and help with leftovers.
How early should I start thawing my turkey?
Typical turkey thawing time is one day in the fridge for every 5lbs. of turkey. If you’re running late, you can speed up the thawing process by submerging your turkey, still in its original packaging, in a sink or container full of cold water. Change the water about every 30 minutes and allow 30 minutes of defrosting time per pound.
Put this tidbit to use: Last-Minute Turkey Rubs
How do I know when my turkey is done cooking?
When fully cooked, the internal temperature of your turkey should be 165°F. Don’t put all your faith in the little red thermometers that come with your bird – sometimes they pop early. To be safe, use your own meat thermometer and check the temperature in the thicker areas of the turkey.
Put this tidbit to use: Herb Roasted Turkey Breast
My stuffing tastes dry, how do I fix it?
No worries, dry stuffing is super simple to adjust. Once your stuffing is out of the oven, add some extra chicken (or vegetable) stock or a bit of butter overtop and it will be moist and delicious.
Put this tidbit to use: Homemade Stuffing
Do you have any out-of-the-box side dish ideas?
Of course! Our Recipe Archive is full of unique side dishes, especially for Thanksgiving dinner. Combine two sides in one with this recipe for Green Bean Potato Casserole (it sounds weird, but it’s delicious). Or, ditch the typical sweet potato casserole for these single-serve Sweet Potato Bites.
For more side dishes: Sparkle Recipe Archive
Which potatoes are best for mashed potatoes?
If you’re looking for a fluffy and smooth mash, use russet potatoes. Prefer a rich and creamy mashed potato? Choose Yukon golds. And for skin-on smashed potatoes, opt for red-skinned potatoes.
Put this tidbit to use: Loaded Mashed Potato Casserole
Is there a type of sausage that works best for stuffing?
When it comes to stuffing, bulk sausage is the best choice. It crumbles easily when sautéing and doesn’t have the chewy casing that’s typically on sausage links or rope sausage. Sweet, mild and spicy all taste great in stuffing, depending on your preference!
Put this tidbit to use: Sausage and Apple Stuffing
I want something other than pumpkin pie for dessert this year, any ideas?
The Sparkle Recipe Archive is full of creative dessert recipes. Love pecan pie? Make these Pecan Pie Brownies. Or, if you’re not much of a baker, try these easy Peanut Butter Pie Bites. This recipe for Cranberry Trifle is another delicious no-bake dessert, perfect for Thanksgiving.
Also, read this: How to Put Creative Twists on Traditional Thanksgiving Pies
What should I do with all my leftovers?
If you’re left with a lot of leftover turkey, rolls and cranberry sauce, make these Leftover Turkey Cranberry Sliders for lunch! Have lots of turkey and stuffing? Check our YouTube channel to see how to make Thanksgiving Leftover Muffins (delicious served with some reheated gravy).
Also, read this: 8 Creative Ways to Repurpose Leftover Turkey
Before you get started on your Thanksgiving meal, make sure to check what’s on sale, then head to your local Sparkle Market for all of the quality ingredients you need. Have a question we didn’t answer? Send it to sparky@sparklemarkets.com and we’ll help you out! Have a happy Thanksgiving!
