Hosting this year’s holiday dinner? Don’t worry — you’ve got this. Below I share practical kitchen tools and helpful tips that make holiday cooking and serving easier, whether it’s your first time hosting or you’re a seasoned pro.
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Cookbook / Tablet Stand
Keep your recipes visible and grease-free by using a cookbook or tablet stand. It holds printed recipes, tablets or phones upright so you can follow instructions without shifting pages or smudging your device.
Pro tip: If you can, test any new recipes ahead of time and jot quick notes on sticky notes—what worked, what to change, and timing adjustments. It saves stress on the big day and helps you replicate successes next year.
Cookbook / tablet stand
Roasting Pan
A sturdy roasting pan is a must for the main course and a versatile piece you’ll use year-round. Look for one that’s large enough for your bird and durable enough for repeated use — a good pan is an investment that pays off with even cooking and easy cleanup.
Roasting pan
Stock Pot
Pro tip: Use a large stock pot to boil potatoes for mashing or to make turkey stock from leftovers. It’s an efficient way to stretch every bit of flavor from your holiday bird.
To make turkey stock, place the turkey bones, any leftover skin and scraps in the stock pot and cover with cold water. If you’re not ready to cook right away, refrigerate the contents until the next day.
Add a whole onion (no need to peel or chop), plus a handful of roughly chopped carrots and celery. Simmer gently on low for 8–10 hours. Strain out the solids, cool the liquid, then refrigerate or freeze.
Stock pot
If you prefer not to simmer on the stove all day, use an Instant Pot or slow cooker instead. Set it on low and let it cook for 8–12 hours for a rich, flavorful stock.
Instant Pot
Cool stock in a wide, shallow bowl to speed cooling, then seal and refrigerate for turkey noodle soup or freeze in measured portions for later use.
Freezer cubes
Baking Dishes
Sides are just as important as the mains. Good casserole dishes make baking, storing and transporting casseroles, stuffing, vegetable bakes and pies much easier. Dishes that come with lids are especially handy for leftovers and travel.
The same dishes work great for brownies, cakes and other baked goods when you want a one-pan dessert or need to bring something to a potluck.
Dishes with lids
Wood Serving Trays
Serving trays are incredibly useful — for rolls, a charcuterie spread, or displaying baked goods. They make the table feel intentional and can help with buffet-style serving.
Choose trays that are food-safe and easy to clean. A few different sizes will cover most needs from appetizers to desserts.
Serving trays
Serving Platters
Large serving platters present your turkey, ham or roast beautifully and make carving and serving easier. Opt for sturdy platters that complement your table setting.
Serving platter
Serving Bowls
Large bowls are essential for salads, mashed potatoes and side dishes. Pick sizes that suit the number of guests and stack neatly for storage.
Serving bowl
Appetizer Sets
Small snacking bowls or an appetizer set keep guests satisfied while the main dishes finish cooking. Offer a mix of olives, nuts, cheeses and crackers to tide people over.
Snacking bowls
Serving Utensils
A variety of serving utensils—large spoons, slotted spoons, forks and ladles—will make serving smooth and organized. Keep a few extras on hand so everyone can help themselves without passing pieces around the table.
5-piece serving set
Hot Pad Trivets
You’ll be pulling many hot dishes out of the oven. Trivets or hot pads protect your table and countertops and keep food from sitting on surfaces that could be damaged by heat.
Trivets
Gravy Boat
A gravy boat adds a polished touch to your table and makes pouring easy. Even if you skip gravy, it’s useful for sauces, dressings or cranberry sauce at the dessert table.
Gravy boat
Tablecloths
A pretty tablecloth instantly elevates the meal and protects your table from spills and scratches. Choose a fabric and color that complements your dinnerware and the season.
Tablecloth
Bread Baskets
Present rolls or homemade bread in a simple bread basket lined with a napkin. It keeps bread warm and adds a cozy touch to the table.
Bread basket
To Go Containers
Leftovers are part of the fun. Have to-go containers available so guests can pack up favorite dishes before they leave. It keeps food organized and reduces waste.
To-go containers