The holidays are officially upon us! If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, it’s time to nail down the perfect spread. If you’re a guest, it’s time to decide what you’re contributing! Here are my favorite things from Trader Joe’s that make holiday cooking a little easier.
Keep in mind these are my picks for convenience and yumminess. If you prefer to cook everything from scratch, go for it! But if you need to stress a little less and enjoy time with friends and family a little more, this list is for you.
Main dishes
Maybe you’re hosting a small group. Maybe you’re hosting a large, diverse group of eaters. These main dishes will impress everyone, with minimal work required.
1. Brined Bone-In Half Turkey Breast
The juiciest, most flavorful pre-cooked turkey breast I’ve ever had. These go fast, for a good reason!
2. Breaded Turkey-Less Stuffed Roast
Even if you’re not vegan, definitely grab one of these. It’s so flavorful and cozy.
3. Balsamic Rosemary Beef Steak Tips
If you’re not a fan of turkey or just want to go for something unconventional, these steak tips are delicious and ready to cook.
Apps
In my opinion, appetizers are the true star of the show at any gathering. Isn’t grazing while you mingle until it’s time to sit down at the table the best part?
1. Savory Squash Pastry Bites
Bite-sized appetizers are always a good choice. These little cuties are filled with a lovely combo of pumpkin, butternut squash, and four different cheeses. All you have to do is bake and enjoy! And share, I guess.
2. Mini Brioche Bites
These fluffy bites are filled with apricot and brie cheese. Yes, they will absolutely melt in your mouth.
3. Double Cream Brie Cheese
Charcuterie may be “out” according to some Gen-Zers, but it’s still the perfect Thanksgiving app IMO (yes, I am a millennial). Trader Joe’s is my go-to for all grazing board necessities, but this Double Cream Brie is my favorite. If you’re not into the effort of an entire board, wrap this little wheel of goodness in puff pastry and bake it. Serve with your favorite crackers.
4. Chicken Uncured Bacon Ranch Dip
Chicken, cheese, uncured bacon, and ranch. My advice? Bring at least two of these babies. Serve with chips and veggies.
5. Thanksgiving Stuffing Seasoned Popcorn
This appetizer is a little unconventional, but delicious nonetheless. As a bonus, it’s sure to break the ice and spark conversation.
Sides
Tired of the same boring Thanksgiving sides? Can’t cook? No worries.
1. Harvest Apple Salad Kit
What goes better with turkey and heavy, starchy sides? A crisp, zippy salad. This Harvest Apple Salad Kit is ready to go, with a spring mix, Unexpected Cheddar (IYKYK), crunchy apple chips and pecans, and a tasty apple vinaigrette. If you want to level this up, serve with fresh apple slices.
2. Herbs de Provence Potato Wedges
These look and taste like you put in a lot of work. They’re crispy, herby, and delicious. You truly can’t go wrong with this Thanksgiving side.
3. Garlic Shiitake Green Beans
Are you team fresh green beans or team green bean casserole? I’m team ALL green beans tbh, but I’m obsessed with these Garlic Shiitake Green Beans. Not only is the flavor amazing, but they look and taste like you made them from scratch.
4. Mashed Potatoes
Nobody really talks about the PRESSURE that comes with making mashed potatoes for Thanksgiving. They aren’t as easy to master as you’d think! These potatoes are pre-cooked and mashed, and frozen into cubes so you can heat as much as you need and dress them up as you like. No chance of globby or dry potatoes.
5. Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Plain, pre-cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, ready for you to add your own personal flavor. Will you keep them pretty basic with butter, or go all out with brown sugar and mallows?
6. Scallopini Potatoes
The third and final potato in this series is the most extra. Cheesy, creamy Scallopini Potatoes. You could definitely make this from scratch if you have the time and motivation, but these are a yummy alternative.
7. Fresh Cranberry Sauce
If you’re in charge of cranberry sauce, this is the one. It’s made with simple ingredients (cranberries, sugar, and water) and doesn’t taste overly sweet.
Desserts
Perhaps the most important course of all?
1. Apple Crumble Pie
The oat crumble topping on this is so delicious my mouth is watering just thinking about it. If you pass it off as homemade, I won’t tell.
2. Nantucket Style Cranberry Pie
A buttery crust topped with juicy, sweet, tart cranberry filling. The perfect compliment to traditional desserts like pumpkin pie.
3. Petit Fours Mousse Cakes
Light, sweet, and bite-sized.
4. Sweet Cannoli Dip 
Serve this in a cute little bowl topped with mini chocolate chips or berries, and a side of graham crackers. If you want to get fancy, use it to layer in a trifle.
5. Macarons
The easiest choice if you’re in a pinch or just looking to add a little variety to your dessert table. Macarons instantly elevate the vibe. The pistachio flavor is my fave.
Beverages
If the food is covered, a yummy beverage is always a good choice. Trader Joe’s has an amazing selection of beer, wine, and non-alcoholic drinks. And… this new ready-to-drink espresso martini, which I will FOR SURE be grabbing!
Before you check out, don’t forget to grab some flowers!
