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Your Ultimate Thanksgiving Hosting Guide: Tips for a Stress-Free Feast
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and, of course, incredible food. But when you’re the host, it can feel like a juggling act — from planning the perfect menu to keeping everything warm and welcoming. That’s why Jones Dairy Farm teamed up with Emily Dingmann of My Everyday Table to create the Thanksgiving Guide, a complete resource filled with planning tips, hosting checklists, and mouthwatering recipes to make your holiday both stress-free and delicious.
Whether it’s your first time hosting or you’ve perfected your family’s traditions, this guide will help you stay organized, confident, and ready to enjoy the day.
Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving
A little preparation goes a long way toward a relaxed, enjoyable holiday. The guide walks you through a step-by-step Thanksgiving timeline, complete with make-ahead ideas and reminders for every stage. Here’s a preview of our top tips:
- Plan early. Start your menu and grocery list a few weeks out so nothing feels rushed.
- Prep ahead. Many dishes can be made in advance — and your future self will thank you.
- Outsource when you can. Guests love to contribute! Let them bring wine, dessert, or an appetizer.
- Take the night off before. Skip cooking on Wednesday — order pizza or enjoy a simple meal so you’re refreshed for the big day.
The complete checklist breaks everything down by week, day, and even hour so you can host with ease.
📋 Download the guide to get your printable Thanksgiving timeline and planning checklist.
Thanksgiving Menu Inspiration
From savory classics to fresh takes on family favorites, the Jones Thanksgiving menu highlights recipes that balance ease, flavor, and make-ahead convenience. Each one showcases the premium taste of Jones sausage, ham, and bacon — made with simple ingredients and time-honored craftsmanship.
Apricot & Dijon Glazed Ham
A stunning centerpiece with sweet apricot preserves, tangy Dijon mustard, and a touch of brown sugar that caramelizes beautifully in the oven. Simple to prepare and perfect for leftovers.
Sourdough Sausage Stuffing
A crowd-pleasing twist on traditional stuffing featuring Jones All Natural Pork Sausage Roll, fresh herbs, and hearty sourdough bread. Crispy on top, soft in the middle — the ideal side dish.
Ham & Potato Au Gratin
Layers of thin-sliced potatoes, gruyere cheese, and smoky Jones Uncured Ham come together in this creamy, comforting classic. Inspired by Julia Child, it’s a showstopper that reheats beautifully.
Hot Bacon Spinach Salad
A fresh, seasonal salad with crispy Jones Dry Aged Bacon, earthy mushrooms, and a warm bacon vinaigrette balanced with cranberries and pumpkin seeds for a pop of color and flavor.
Sausage & Gruyere Pinwheels
Flaky puff pastry filled with creamy cheese and savory Jones All Natural Pork Sausage Roll — an easy, make-ahead appetizer that’s guaranteed to disappear first.
Master the Thanksgiving Timeline
Not sure when to start the turkey? Or how to fit all those side dishes into one oven? The guide includes a detailed cooking schedule, plus expert advice for keeping food warm, coordinating your oven time, and maximizing make-ahead dishes.
From thawing your turkey to assembling sides, you’ll find practical solutions for any kitchen setup — even if you’re working with just one oven.
💡 Pro Tip: Most sides taste even better when prepared a day in advance — especially stuffing and potatoes!
Don’t Forget the Leftovers
The celebration doesn’t end when the table is cleared. Use the guide’s Leftovers section to spark ideas for next-day meals like:
- Ham & Cheese Breakfast Bakes
- Turkey White Chili
- Stuffing Waffles
- Mashed Potato Pancakes
With Jones products on hand — from ham and bacon to all natural sausage — your leftovers will taste just as good the next day (if not better).
Download Your Free Thanksgiving Guide
Hosting Thanksgiving should feel joyful, not stressful. Let us help you plan, prep, and cook with confidence.
Get your free, printable Thanksgiving Guide filled with step-by-step checklists, expert hosting tips, and delicious Jones recipes your guests will love.
Make this Thanksgiving your most delicious — and relaxed — one yet.
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