One oven, twelve dishes, everyone arriving at once. This Thanksgiving checklist runs the week like a kitchen — thaw schedule, make-aheads and the day-of order of operations.
In the fridge, allow one day per 4–5 pounds — a 15-lb bird needs three-plus days. It’s the item most likely to sink the meal, so it anchors the week-before section.
What can I make ahead for Thanksgiving?
Cranberry sauce, pies, casseroles and gravy base all hold a day or two. The make-ahead section moves half the meal off the day itself.