Suddenly Frugal Blog

Figured a little advice on how to save on your Thanksgiving meal wouldn’t hurt, now that we’re less than three weeks from that big day. So here are 6 tips to consider, courtesy of Butterball–you know the folks who run that 24/7 turkey-cooking, question-answering help line for befuddled cooks who use their oven only once a year. (That number, in case you need it, is 1-800-BUTTERBALL.)

1. Click and Clip to Save: Coupon usage is on the rise, and starting in November, families can visit Butterball.com for $2.00 off a fresh or frozen Butterball turkey while supplies last.
2. Turn One Meal into Many: One of the best things about Thanksgiving is leftovers, so make the most of your turkey this year. A 12-pound turkey can generously feed a family of eight with plenty of leftovers.
3. Cook from the Pantry: With 68 percent of Americans cutting spending on non-essential grocery items, selecting recipes based on the ingredients already in your pantry, spice rack or refrigerator is a smart way to save. Look for recipes that don’t call for any fancy (and expensive) spices–have you ever priced saffron? Ouch!
4. Pick Vegetables Wisely: Frozen and canned vegetables can often be more affordable than the fresh varieties, and still offer the same nutritional value. If you do need to purchase fresh produce, select vegetables that are in season, which, as we all know, are often less expensive. See if any of your local farmer’s markets are still open for the freshest produce possible. Some in-season–and affordable–items to consider adding to your Thanksgiving menu include sweet potatoes and squash.
5. Go Potluck This Year: Encourage guests to bring their favorite side dishes, drinks or desserts to cut down on costs.
6. Shop Smart: Buy non-perishable items months in advance when they are on sale. Try freezing leftover hamburger and hot dog buns during the summer and use them for the stuffing come November. To prepare for next year’s get-together, purchase Thanksgiving-themed tableware and decorations immediately following the holiday when these items are on sale. (My grocery store is doing tons of 10 for $10 deals right now so I’m am absolutely stocking up on stuff I can freeze and use later, like bread.)