Top tips on celebrating Thanksgiving as a student

It’s that time of year when the leaves are falling, there’s a chill in the air, and the big coats are officially out – depending on which state you are in, of course. Yes, Thanksgiving is nearly here – and luckily, a hearty dinner is the ideal winter warmer.

Sometimes heading back home for the holidays isn’t possible. Or, maybe you and your new friends want to roll your sleeves up and celebrate Thanksgiving together. Whatever the reason, it’s a perfect excuse to host a dinner party to remember at College. 

We think these turkey-riffic Thanksigiving dorm dinner ideas might help your planning…

Thanksgiving turkey 

You can’t beat the classics. If you and your friends are in the mood for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner, be sure to pick up your turkey in advance. This will be your centrepiece and will need plenty of preparation. 

Remember to decide on your chosen seasoning collaboratively, and secure that all-important stuffing early so your turkey is oozing with flavor when you tuck in. You can get these ready-made, or have a go at making your own with cupboard seasoning ingredients - cookbooks are your friend here!

Veggie-friendly food

If you’re thinking of switching it up this year, or you have vegetarian guests joining you, it’s great to ensure everyone is catered for. Test your hand at making individual pot-pies filled with beans, lentils and vegetables – topped with a delicious flaky pastry. This easy Thanksgiving dinner idea is packed with protein and flavor, leaving your guests asking for seconds – even the non-veggie ones!

It’s all about the sides

Now your showstopper centrepiece is sorted, it’s time to work on the sides. No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without all the trimmings, and it’s up to you whether you go traditional, or give these a bit of a twist. 

Pass the potatoes! 

Mashed, smashed, or roasted, potatoes are the ultimate Thanksgiving side dish. If you’ve settled on creamy and buttery mash, add a helping of strong cheese for a slice of extra flavor. Or, for smashed potatoes, grate parmesan over the top as soon as they come out of the oven. If roasted potatoes are more your thing – sprinkle with garlic, rosemary, and salt for a delicious home-cooked taste. 

Mac ’n’ cheese please! 

This easy Thanksgiving dinner side is always a staple at the table, but you can easily add your own twist. Whether you choose to add crispy salty bacon, or make your own seasoned breadcrumbs, your mac and cheese dish is guaranteed to be cheesy and full of flavor. And if you’re feeling fancy, why not try all three!

Goodness greens! 

Delicious greens create a side that’s full of colour and packed with goodness. From garlic-roasted broccoli to buttery green beans, your plate (and your body) will welcome some wholesome goodness after all those carbs.

Gravy and cranberry sauce?

Of course! There’s always a toss-up between these two classic condiments, but we’re here to ask – why not both? While you can make these yourself, there’s no harm in buying store-bought sauces. Just be sure to recycle the packaging – we won’t tell if you don’t!

Thanksgiving treats

Of course, the nation’s go-to dessert at this time of year is pie. Apple, pecan, or pumpkin – take your pick. 

To create the perfect Thanksgiving pudding pie, all you need is a buttery pre-made crust, plenty of filling, and a choice of crunchy toppings. While your pie is piping hot, serve with a helping of Madagascan vanilla ice cream, or whipped cream on the side. Yum.

Outro:

For more guides like this one, check out our Student Spill blog, where you’ll find inspiration, tips, and advice on all the best things to do alongside your studies – including our handy guide on tackling welcome week like a pro.