Forkonomics

The turkey may be the star, but the sides bring the meal together. This guide walks you through prepping each supporting dish—stuffing, mashed potatoes, canned corn, cranberry sauce, and gravy—using affordable ingredients and simple steps. Optional add-ins are included for hosts who want to elevate flavor without complicating the process.

Stuffing (Boxed or Stovetop)

Ingredients:

• 1 box stuffing mix
• Water and butter (amount per box instructions)
• Optional: ½ cup chopped onion, ½ cup chopped celery, ½ cup chopped apple

Instructions:

1. Bring water and butter to a boil in a saucepan.
2. If using optional add-ins, sauté onion, celery, and/or apple in a separate pan with 1 tbsp butter until softened (5–7 minutes).
3. Remove water from heat and stir in stuffing mix.
4. Fold in sautéed ingredients if using.
5. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Optional Oven Finish: Transfer prepared stuffing to a greased baking dish and bake uncovered at 350°F for 25–30 minutes for a crisp top.

Mashed Potatoes

Ingredients:

• 3–4 lb russet potatoes
• Salted water for boiling
• Butter and milk (to taste)
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: garlic powder, sour cream, shredded cheese

Instructions:

1. Peel and chop potatoes into even chunks.
2. Boil in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).
3. Drain and return to pot.
4. Mash with butter and milk until smooth.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. For extra flavor, stir in garlic powder, a spoonful of sour cream, or a handful of shredded cheese.

Make-Ahead Tip: Keep warm in a covered dish or slow cooker on low. Add a splash of milk before serving if needed.

Canned Corn

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) corn, drained
• Butter, salt, and pepper
• Optional: pinch of sugar or garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Heat corn in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Stir in butter, salt, and pepper to taste.
3. Add a pinch of sugar or garlic powder if desired.
4. Serve warm.

Cranberry Sauce

Ingredients:

• 1 can cranberry sauce (jellied or whole berry)

Instructions:

1. Chill in fridge until ready to serve.
2. Open can from the bottom for easier release.
3. Slice into rounds or scoop into a bowl.
4. Serve cold or at room temperature.

Gravy

Option 1: Packet Gravy

• Follow package instructions using water or broth.
• Stir constantly to avoid lumps.
• Optional: add a splash of pan drippings or a pinch of garlic powder for depth.

Option 2: DIY Gravy (Butter + Flour + Broth) Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp butter
• 2 tbsp flour
• 1½ cups broth or pan drippings
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: onion powder, dried herbs

Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Whisk in flour and cook for 1–2 minutes to form a roux.
3. Slowly add broth, whisking constantly.
4. Simmer until thickened.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs or onion powder.