Question 1

Can I make any of these recipes ahead of time?

Accepted Answer

Yes! The cranberry sauce actually tastes better made a day ahead—the flavors develop overnight. The herb butter can be made up to a week in advance and refrigerated. Mashed potatoes can be made a few hours early and kept warm in a slow cooker with a splash of cream.

Question 2

How long does this whole meal take to prepare?

Accepted Answer

From start to table, expect about 2-2.5 hours if you work efficiently. The turkey legs take the longest (about an hour in the oven - even less in an air fryer), so start there. Everything else works around that timing. The green beans and herb butter come together quickly at the end.

Question 3

Can I use a whole turkey instead of turkey legs?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely, but it will significantly increase your cooking time. Turkey legs are perfect for last-minute meals because they cook faster and everyone gets a portion. If you do use a whole bird, plan for about 3-4 hours cooking time depending on size.

Question 4

What if I'm missing one of the ingredients?

Accepted Answer

Each recipe includes substitution options, but here's the quick version: no fresh herbs for the butter? Dried work fine. No fresh green beans? Frozen are perfectly acceptable. No gruyere for the mac? Use all cheddar. Thanksgiving is about flexibility, not perfection.

Question 5

How many people does this menu serve?

Accepted Answer

As written, this menu serves about 6-8 people comfortably. Each recipe can be easily doubled for larger gatherings. For smaller groups of 4 or less, you might scale the mac and cheese and mashed potatoes down by half.

Question 6

What's the best order to cook everything?

Accepted Answer

Here's my recommended timeline: Start with cranberry sauce (it needs to cool). Make the herb butter next. Prep and start the turkey legs. While those roast, make the mashed potatoes and start the mac and cheese. The green beans go last since they only take 15 minutes.

Question 7

How do I keep everything warm until serving?

Accepted Answer

The turkey legs can rest covered with foil for 15-20 minutes. Mashed potatoes stay warm in a covered pot or slow cooker. Mac and cheese holds in a 200°F oven covered with foil. Green beans are best served immediately, so make them last.

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