Blog · Topic

Holiday cooking

Thanksgiving, the holidays and big-batch cooking, planned so the day runs on time.

Holiday cooking · 8 min read How to make gravy without drippings Butter, flour and hot stock make gravy in 10 minutes. The ratio per cup, a roasted-wing stock for roast flavor, and how long make-ahead gravy keeps in the fridge and freezer.
Holiday cooking · 8 min read Can you cook a partially frozen turkey? A partially frozen turkey is safe to roast at 325°F. Allow extra time (up to 50% more for a solid bird), take the giblets out once you can, and check 165°F in three places.
Holiday cooking · 8 min read Dry brine vs wet brine turkey: which is better? Dry brining gives browner skin and needs no bucket, so it suits most kitchens. The salt per pound, how many days ahead, when to wet brine instead, and which turkeys to leave alone.
Holiday cooking · 8 min read Can you make stuffing ahead of time? Bake stuffing up to 3 to 4 days ahead and reheat it to 165°F, or freeze it unbaked and bake from frozen. The USDA says never to refrigerate raw mixed stuffing.
Holiday cooking · 8 min read Can you freeze mashed potatoes? Make them ahead Mashed potatoes made with plenty of butter freeze well for about a month and keep 3 to 4 days in the fridge. How to cool, freeze, thaw and reheat them to 165°F without turning them gluey.
Holiday cooking · 8 min read How much turkey per person (and how much of each side) Buy 1 pound of whole turkey per person, 1½ pounds if you want leftovers, less for a breast or boneless roast. Bird sizes by guest count and side-dish amounts per person.
Holiday cooking · 8 min read How long can a thawed turkey stay in the fridge? A fully thawed turkey keeps 1 to 2 days in the fridge before cooking. Thaw times by weight, the day to start for Thanksgiving, refreezing, and the cold-water fallback.

Dinner, looked after.

Start with the recipes you already love: bring your favorite sites, your Paprika library and the person you cook with. 14 days free, no card needed.

Start free Tour the features