Turkey versus ham? Cobblers versus pie? Pecan versus pumpkin?
Thanksgiving occurs every November and every year it's the same headaches: serving a moist, fully-cooked bird, creating several side dishes that everyone will love and ending the holiday celebration with a dessert or a few that has folks talking into the new year.
This year, "Good Morning America" did the hard work for you. We put together five full-course meals using recipes from some of our most popular guests like Emeril Lagasse and Rachael Ray to save you the time and the hassle. At the end of each rundown is a shopping list of what you'll need from the supermarket.
Good luck!
At Thanksgiving, it's all about the bird. Chef Emeril Lagasse's brined and herb-roasted Thanksgiving turkey recipe is sure to please your holiday crowd. This recipe shows you how to make the brine, the broth, the gravy ... and cook a delicious turkey!
CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Not feeling like turkey? Emeril's Spiced Baked Ham brings together molasses, orange juice and cayenne plus a side dish of sweet potatoes. Not only is this good straight out of the oven, the ham makes amazing sandwiches the next day.
CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Let soup solve your pumpkin vs. pecan pie problem! Get your pumpkin fix before dessert with this creamy soup courtesy of the chef from the Big Easy. And hope you saved your seeds from carving pumpkins during Halloween. You can use them as garnish.
CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Macaroni and cheese is a staple side at many holiday dinner tables and you can't go wrong with this one, combining cheddar, Monterey Jack and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheeses. This is sure to be a hit and is an easy dish to make ahead at Thanksgiving or any time of year.
CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Ditch the traditional cranberry sauce and try this fresh salad with red and golden beets. And don't forget the cheese crisps. Your guests will love them.
CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Rather than a heavy pie or cake, surprise your guests with something light and pear-y. Emeril's pear tartlets can be served with his homemade creme fraiche and some tea. See below.
CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Before you send them out into the brisk air -- after the obligatory football game, seconds and thirds and tons of doggie bags, nonetheless -- serve them a cup of tea.
CLICK HERE for step-by-step instructions.
Butcher/Deli:
Baking Goods:
Dairy and Juice:
Oils, Condiments and Spices:
Fruits and Vegetables:
Frozen Goods:
Miscellaneous: