Friendsgiving potluck

What it is

A Thanksgiving dinner with friends where everyone brings a dish. The host provides the main (often a turkey), the space and drinks, and a shared sign-up list makes sure there’s a balance of sides and desserts.

Plan ahead

• Three weeks before: send invites and a sign-up sheet: sides, salads, bread, desserts, drinks.
• Three days before: start defrosting a frozen turkey in the fridge (about 1 day per 2kg).
• The day before: set the table and make the gravy base.

The turkey

Roast at 180°C for about 35-40 minutes per kg (unstuffed), basting now and then. It’s done when a thermometer in the thickest part of the thigh reads 74°C. Rest for 30-45 minutes before carving.

Sign-up ideas

• Mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, roasted squash, mac and cheese
• Cranberry sauce, gravy, bread rolls
• Pumpkin pie, apple pie, pecan pie

Set the scene

Kraft paper runner with pens for gratitude notes, small pumpkins, autumn leaves and candles.

Tips

• Ask people to bring dishes ready to serve (oven space is precious).
• Have takeaway boxes for leftovers.