Question of the Week

How can I save money on my Thanksgiving meal?

The good news about a typical Thanksgiving meal is that it can be relatively cheap.

The American Farm Bureau Federation crunches the numbers each year. In 2024, it determined the average cost of a traditional Thanksgiving meal for 10 people was about $58. That included turkey, pie, cranberries and other staples.

The bad news is that it’s easy to drastically increase the cost of your Thanksgiving meal by incorporating more expensive ingredients, buying alcohol and adding other “extras” like Thanksgiving decor.

Here are some simple ways to keep the costs of your Thanksgiving meal down:

1. Pick simple dishes: Choose less complicated recipes — such as mashed potatoes and roasted turkey — to help keep your expenses down. You’re less likely to need to purchase new spices or other ingredients. 

2. Host a potluck: If friends and family are coming to your home, assign each guest a dish. That way, everyone contributes. 

3. Shop sale items: If you notice your local grocery store is offering a special on Brussels sprouts, consider subbing them for the green beans or salad. Canned or frozen vegetables tend to be much less expensive than fresh produce. 

4. Transform leftovers: Leftover turkey and sides can become the next day’s casserole, soup or sandwiches — especially if you’re hosting out-of-town guests.

5. Make your own decor: Bring in seasonal pinecones or dried flowers to create a tablescape without any additional purchases. You can search online for easy ideas using terms like “Thanksgiving table settings” or “fall centerpiece.”