Thrifty Thanksgiving Menu
How to cook a turkey dinner for under $10.
by Debbie Pugh
It’s the biggest meal of the year.
At least in terms of caloric intake (and one of the only times it’s OK and encouraged to go back for seconds).
But Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t require a big budget to feed all those bellies.
Assuming you possess some essential pantry items such as flour, soy sauce, brown sugar and butter, this holiday feast for a family of eight can cost less than $10 per person.
Turkey: $20
An 18-pound turkey will feed a crowd and provide ample leftovers. Prices usually range from about $0.49 per pound to more than $1 a pound. If you see a good deal and have room in your freezer, buy the bird at the earliest opportunity.
Stuffing: $6
Fourteen cups of prepared stuffing will keep your guests happy. Obviously it will not all fit in the bird, but the excess can be baked in a casserole pan alongside the turkey. Flavor with celery, carrots and onion.
Green Bean Casserole: $10
Double the standard recipe found on soup labels to account for large numbers. Don’t forget to double all the ingredients – like the crispy fried onions. During a sale, you may find mushroom soup for $0.50 or less.
Mashed Potatoes and Gravy: $4
Five pounds of potatoes should do. The gravy is a natural product from the turkey. Take time to make it from scratch instead of using the thick gravy from a jar. It will save you money and taste better too.
Yams: $5
Go ahead and use the ones in the can. The recipe on the package is there for good reason. Indulge and top the dish with tiny marshmallows.
Steamed Broccoli: $2
It is fine to use a bag of frozen broccoli florets or spears. The veggies add nutrition and color to the meal. You can dress it up by adding garlic and walnuts.
Cranberry Sauce: $2
Jellied from the can is just fine for family and friends. But homemade is easy and affordable too.
Cornbread: $2
Use cornbread in place of more expensive dinner rolls. The boxed mix is very inexpensive, easy to make and a family favorite.
Wine: $18
Yellow Tail shiraz is an affordable brand that tastes elegant. Serve it from a carafe. Things always taste better served from fancy glass.
Pumpkin Pie: $10
If you have the talent, make it yourself! However, the commissary and many local bakeries offer a good product for a reasonable price. Don’t forget the whipped cream.