Thanksgiving is Thursday, November 26, 2026. This Thanksgiving shopping list covers everything for a classic dinner — turkey, sides, pies, drinks and supplies — plus a timeline so you shop early for staples and late for fresh produce.
How big a turkey do you need?
Plan on about 1 to 1.5 pounds of turkey per person (the higher amount if you want leftovers).
| Guests | Turkey size |
|---|---|
| 4–6 | 6–9 lb (or a bone-in breast) |
| 8–10 | 12–15 lb |
| 12–14 | 16–20 lb |
| 16+ | Two smaller turkeys or a turkey plus a ham |
Meat and main dish
- Whole turkey (fresh or frozen)
- Turkey breast or ham for extra servings
- Chicken or turkey stock (2–3 quarts)
- Butter (at least 2 pounds for the whole meal)
- Bacon or sausage for stuffing
- Roasting pan with rack, if you don’t own one
Produce
- Potatoes (russet or Yukon Gold)
- Sweet potatoes
- Green beans
- Brussels sprouts
- Celery, onions and carrots
- Garlic
- Fresh herbs: sage, thyme, rosemary, parsley
- Fresh cranberries
- Lemons and oranges
- Salad greens
- Apples for pie or cider
Pantry staples
- Stuffing bread cubes or a loaf to dry
- All-purpose flour
- Granulated and brown sugar
- Canned pumpkin purée
- Evaporated milk
- Cornstarch (for gravy)
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Pumpkin pie spice, cinnamon, nutmeg
- Olive oil or vegetable oil
- Crispy fried onions (for green bean casserole)
- Cream of mushroom soup
- Mini marshmallows and pecans
- Dinner rolls
Dairy
- Heavy cream and whipping cream
- Milk
- Eggs
- Sour cream or cream cheese
- Shredded and grated cheese
Baking and dessert
- Pie crusts (store-bought or homemade)
- Vanilla extract
- Whipped topping
- Pecans or walnuts
- Vanilla ice cream
Drinks
- Apple cider
- Sparkling water or juice
- Coffee and tea
- Wine or beer for adults
- Ice
Supplies
- Meat thermometer
- Aluminum foil and plastic wrap
- Disposable containers for leftovers
- Paper towels and napkins
- Extra trash bags
- Candles and table decor
When to shop: Thanksgiving shopping list timeline
- Two weeks before (by Nov 12): buy a frozen turkey, pantry items, drinks and supplies.
- One week before (Nov 19): start thawing a large frozen turkey in the fridge — about one day per 4–5 pounds.
- Weekend before (Nov 21–22): buy dairy, root vegetables and baking items.
- Two days before (Nov 24): pick up a fresh turkey, herbs, salad greens and bread.
- Day before (Nov 25): make pies and cranberry sauce; chop vegetables.
Plan the menu with our Thanksgiving dinner ideas, side dishes and turkey thawing guide. Check what’s open on Thanksgiving if you forget something.
Tip: screenshot this Thanksgiving shopping list or print it, cross off what you already have, and split your Thanksgiving shopping list into two trips — pantry items early, fresh items two days before.
FAQ
When should I buy my Thanksgiving turkey?
Buy a frozen turkey one to two weeks ahead so it has time to thaw. Buy a fresh turkey one or two days before.
How much food do I need per person?
Plan about 1–1.5 lb turkey, 1/2 cup each of potatoes and stuffing, and one slice of pie per guest.
What is commonly forgotten at Thanksgiving?
Butter, stock, foil, a meat thermometer, ice and containers for leftovers.
