Ways to Make Sure Side Dishes Come Out On Time

Do you have "side dish stress" at Thanksgiving? You're not alone.

Getting all those little casseroles and accompaniments on the table at the right temperature and on time is a challenge for many holiday party hosts.

Follow these tips to help make your Thanksgiving meal countdown a success and hopefully, lessen your stress!

Tip 1: Organize Your Cooking Space

Think about all cooking methods available in your home and plan your side dishes accordingly.

Tip 2: Make a 60-Minute Countdown Cooking Plan

A plan of action only works if you can easily follow it. Take the time to write it down!

Tip 3: Prep Some Food and Equipment in Advance

Being prepared on Thanksgiving Day will help you feel more relaxed and confident about making the meal.

Tip 4: Put a Planning Timer in your Pocket

You probably have an oven timer for cooking, so why not use a timer for planning? Many mobile phones have a built-in timer or you could purchase a small portable timer to help you stay on track on Thanksgiving Day.

Tip 5: As a Last Resort

Much of the stress of Thanksgiving meal preparation is due to that fact that many people are actually making 3 meals in 1 when you consider leftovers. If youre really overwhelmed, try this:

• Make only the amount of food that you know will be consumed at dinner.

• Put food into smaller baking dishes so all the side dishes you need for the meal will fit in your oven at the same time.

• Pop extra side dishes into the oven after the meal or during clean up for your leftovers.