Help with timing of cooking Thanksgiving

I'm nervous! This is the first year hubby and I are doing it. I have done it once on my own before but my mom was there helping/coaching along the way. We live in the upstairs apt so she can still help if we need, but it's pretty much US doing it.

Sooo I'm going to do the baking the night before. And maybe peel the potatoes. and cranberry sauce, and prep chili dip so it just needs to go in the oven the next day.

I dont know how to spread out the timing the day of. Im making turkey (I know early in the morning...how long though usually?)

mashed potatoes
corn
sausage stuffing
burnt broccoli
asparagus
carmalezied carrots
sweet potatoes (someone else is bringing)

apps at 3
dinner at 4/5

When should I start cooking everything above????

TIA!!!!!! getting stressed

Message edited 11/18/2010 11:05:53 AM.

Re: Help with timing of cooking Thanksgiving

I am planning on making the stuffing the night before and putting it in a casserole dish I can just pop in the oven og TG day! Just an idea for you!

i might also peal the white and sweet potatoes the night before too.

eta:
mashed potatoes are quick... you can do that while the turkey is resting. and you can make the stuffing early too (you will have to if you plan on stuffing the turkey with it anyway!).

drink wine while you are cooking and you won't stress (thats my plan, its my first TG!)

Message edited 11/18/2010 1:11:16 PM.

Re: Help with timing of cooking Thanksgiving

If I recall correctly, cooking a turkey is about 20 mins per lb but the wrapping on the turkey will tell you.

I prep all the sides the night before (I place them in large ziplock bags and stack 'em in the fridge) so all I have to do the next day is put them in ovenware bowls right before throwing them in the oven. You can boil your potatoes and then mash them during the last 30-45 mins of the turkey cooking (put them in a nice serving bowl that's microwavable). I let the turkey sit for about 1/2 hour before carving so at that time you can put all your other sides into the oven. Don't worry too much about lukewarm sides when you're ready to bring the turkey to the table, that's what microwaves are for!

Oh, and if you want to make gravy from the drippings, I make that the very last thing I do so it's piping hot when I bring it to the table.

I hope I didn't confuse you!!!

Re: Help with timing of cooking Thanksgiving

Posted by caps612

drink wine while you are cooking and you won't stress (thats my plan, its my first TG!)

Re: Help with timing of cooking Thanksgiving

Thanks girls!!! great ideas!!!!!! Wine will help! :)