Thanksgiving Cooking Tips You Need

From turkey brining to piecrust, here are your must-know cooking tips for the holiday

Thanksgiving is around the corner, which means it's officially Time to Celebrate. All month long we're bringing you recipes, tips, tricks and stories that are equal parts memorable and delicious.

The feast we look forward to all year is finally upon us, and tantalizing smells of roast turkey and rich stuffing are almost within reach—along with all the work that comes with them. But before the alarm bells go off and panic starts to brew, remember that you got this—especially if you consult our cooking hacks and demos that will help take your holiday up a notch.

Whether you're cooking for two or 20, arming yourself with a handful of tricks is never a bad idea, especially at Thanksgiving. So check out these 15 tips, from brining to braiding piecrust, and the only thing people will be arguing about is who gets the invite next year.

Turkey

Here are the best ways to approach your bird, no matter its size. This year, no one's going to call the turkey "missable."

① How to Spatchcock a Turkey  ② Everything You Need to Know About Brining  ③ 5 Essential Steps for Roasting the Perfect Bird How to Baste a Turkey Without a Baster

Sides

Everyone knows the sides are the real star at Thanksgiving, so here are some hacks that make cooking vegetables easier and ensure they steal the show.

The Secret Ingredient You Should Add to Your Roasted Vegetables The Right Way to Boil PotatoesA Simple Trick for Peeling Butternut Squash

Drinks & Desserts

A proper booze strategy is crucial for this all-day family affair. And if you're anything like us, you have a separate compartment in your stomach for dessert. So here's how to win on both fronts.

How to Assemble the Perfect Cheese Board for Thanksgiving How to Tell If Your Wine Is CorkedThe Exact Amount to Spend on Wine This Thanksgiving  ⑪ How to Make the Perfect Piecrust

Leftovers 

When it's over, it's . . . actually just begun. That's because our leftovers recipes are going to rival the big day.

How to Turn Stuffing into a Waffle (and cry tears of joy)What to Do with Leftover Mashed PotatoesHow to Make a Leftovers Potpie ⑮ Switch Up Your Leftover Turkey Sandwich This Year