The holidays are officially approaching! If you’re hosting Thanksgiving, it’s time to capture the perfect spread. If you’re a guest, it’s time to decide what to contribute! Here are my favorite things from Trader Joe’s that make holiday cooking a little easier.
Please note that these are my picks for convenience and deliciousness. If you prefer to cook everything from scratch, go ahead! But if you need to stress a little less and enjoy a little more time with your friends and family, this list is for you.
Main dishes
Maybe you’re hosting a small group. Perhaps you are hosting a large, diverse group of eaters. These main dishes will impress everyone, with minimal work required.
1. Half a bone-in brine turkey breast
The juiciest, most flavorful pre-cooked turkey breast I’ve ever had. These are going fast, for good reason!
2. Roast turkey-Less stuffed roast
Even if you’re not vegan, definitely get one of these. It is so tasty and comfortable.
3. Tips for beef steak with rosemary
If you’re not a turkey fan or just want to go for something unconventional, these steak tips are delicious and ready to cook.
Applications
In my opinion, appetizers are the real star of the show at any gathering. Isn’t grazing while mingling until it’s time to sit at the table the best?
1. Savory Squash Pastry Bites
Bite-sized appetizers are always a good choice. These little sweets are filled with a delicious combination of pumpkin, butternut squash and four different cheeses. All you have to do is bake and enjoy! And share, I guess.
2. Mini Brioche Bites
These fluffy bites are filled with apricot and brie cheese. Yes, they will absolutely melt in your mouth.
3. Double Cream Cheese Brie
Charcuterie may be “out” according to some Gen-Zers, but it’s still the perfect Thanksgiving appt IMO (yes, I’m a millennial). Trader Joe’s is my go-to for all grazing essentials, but this Double Cream Brie is my go-to. If you’re not up for the effort of a whole board, wrap this little wheel of goodness in puff pastry and bake. Serve with your favorite crackers.
4. Uncured Chicken Bacon Ranch Dip
Chicken, cheese, raw bacon and ranch. My advice? Bring at least two of these babies. Serve with chips and vegetables.
5. Thanksgiving Stuffed Popcorn
This appetizer is a little unconventional, but still delicious. As a bonus, it’s sure to break the ice and spark conversation.
Sides
Tired of the same boring sides of Thanksgiving? Can’t you cook? No worries.
1. Harvest Apple Salad Kit
What goes best with turkey and heavy, starchy sides? A crunchy, juicy salad. This Harvest Apple Salad Kit is ready, with a spring blend, Unexpected Cheddar (IYKYK), crunchy apple and pecan chips, and a delicious apple vinaigrette. If you want to increase it, serve with fresh apple slices.
2. Herbs de Provence Potato Wedges
These look and taste like you’ve put in a lot of work. They are crunchy, herbal and delicious. You really can’t go wrong with this Thanksgiving side.
3. Green Shiitake Beans Garlic
Are you team fresh green beans or team green bean casserole? I’m team ALL green beans tbh, but I’m obsessed with these Shiitake Garlic Green Beans. Not only do they taste amazing, but they look and taste like you made them from scratch.
4. Mashed potatoes
No one really talks about the PRESSURE that comes with making Thanksgiving mashed potatoes. It’s not as easy to master as you think! These potatoes are pre-cooked and mashed and frozen in cubes so you can reheat as much as you need and dress them however you like. No chance of globs or dry chips.
5. Sweet potato puree
Simple, pre-cooked and mashed sweet potatoes, ready to add your own personal flavor. Are you going to keep them pretty basic with butter or pair them with brown sugar and mallow?
6. Scalopini potatoes
The third and last potato in this series is the most extra. Cheesy, Creamy Scallopini Fries. You could certainly make it from scratch if you have the time and motivation, but these are a delicious alternative.
7. Fresh cranberry sauce
If you’re in charge of cranberry sauce, this is the one. It is made with simple ingredients (cranberries, sugar and water) and does not have an overly sweet taste.
Desserts
Perhaps the most important course of all?
1. Apple Crumble Pie
The oat topping on this is so delicious my mouth is watering just thinking about it. If you pass it off as homemade, I won’t tell.
2. Nantucket Style Cranberry Pie
A buttery crust topped with a juicy, sweet, tart cranberry filling. The perfect compliment to traditional desserts like pumpkin pie.
3. Petit Fours Mousse Cakes
Light, sweet and bite-sized.
4. Sweet Cannoli Dip 
Serve in a cute little bowl filled with mini chocolate chips or berries and a side of graham crackers. If you want to get fancy, use it to layer on a tiny one.
5. Macarons
The easiest choice if you’re in a pinch or just want to add some variety to your dessert table. Macarons instantly lift the mood. The peanut flavor is my favorite.
Drinks
If the food is covered, a tasty drink is always a good choice. Trader Joe’s has an amazing selection of beer, wine and soft drinks. And… that new ready-to-drink espresso martini, which I will DEFINITELY grab!
Before you check out, don’t forget to pick up some flowers!
