Traditional Thanksgiving on a Budget Serves 6–8 | Estimated Total: ~$21.00 Prices reflect full-package purchases as of November 2025.
Meat & Poultry
- [ ] Frozen turkey (12 lb) — Look for store promo at $0.49–$0.89/lb → $6.99
Produce
- [ ] Russet potatoes (5 lb bag) → $2.49
- [ ] Onion (1 medium) → $0.50 (optional)
- [ ] Celery (2 stalks or small bunch) → $0.50 (optional)
Canned & Boxed Goods
- [ ] Boxed stuffing mix → $1.25
- [ ] Canned cranberry sauce → $1.29
- [ ] Canned corn (15 oz) → $0.79
- [ ] Pumpkin puree (15 oz can) → $1.29
- [ ] Evaporated milk (12 oz can) → $1.19
- [ ] Gravy packet → $0.89
Baking
- [ ] Store-brand pie crust → $1.50
- [ ] Granulated sugar (4 lb bag) → $2.25
- [ ] Pumpkin pie spice blend → $2.49
- [ ] Eggs (1 dozen) → $1.75
- [ ] Whipped topping or vanilla ice cream → $1.99 (optional)
Dairy
- [ ] Milk (½ gallon) → $1.99
Core Kitchen Staples
These are considered household basics in Forkonomics recipes. Prices not included unless restocking is needed.
- [ ] Salt
- [ ] Pepper
- [ ] Garlic powder
- [ ] Butter or margarine
Optional Pantry Items
Flavor boosters and DIY substitutions. Include if not already stocked.
- [ ] Onion powder
- [ ] Dried herbs: thyme, rosemary
- [ ] Flour (for DIY gravy)
- [ ] Bouillon cubes or broth
Optional Add-Ons
- [ ] Bread or rolls
- [ ] Extra canned vegetables (green beans, peas)
Forkonomics 