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Entertaining Thanksgiving Recipes

Basic Thanksgiving Tips for a Small Gathering (Menu included!)

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A smaller gathering for Thanksgiving can be just as special as a large feast! Create a basic menu and follow these tips for an intimate Thanksgiving Dinner to cherish!

table with wine glasses and dinner
In this article:
  • Tips for a Small Thanksgiving Dinner
    • Set a pretty space.
    • Reduce Your Menu
    • Make New Traditions
  • Basic Thanksgiving Menu
  • More Holiday Recipes

If you are used to a more lively celebration with family members filling the halls, a small Thanksgiving dinner may seem a bit somber.

But, even a more intimate gathering with your immediate family or a small group of friends can be just as special as a large feast!

These tips will help you merge tradition and simplicity for a cozy meal everyone can be thankful for.

Tips for a Small Thanksgiving Dinner

Set a pretty space.

A small guest list is no reason to skimp on the decor. In fact, take some extra time and create a special centerpiece that tends to be considered a hassle during the hustle and bustle of regular holiday planning.

Add candelabras, create place cards, pick up a bouquet of fresh flowers, and polish up the silver to make it extra special.

Thanksgiving table setting

If you live in a warmer climate, consider an outdoor picnic. This way, you can include additional households and maintain a safe distance. For this idea, encourage your guests to bring their own prepackaged Thanksgiving feast!

Reduce Your Menu

Instead of a giant bird fit for a king, a turkey breast is a better option for a smaller crowd, or if turkey isn’t your thing, roast a chicken or another piece of meat for a change!

buffet line of thanksgiving dinner

Focus on a main entree (meat) and about 3-5 sides for a smaller meal. 

Make New Traditions

Make the best out of a smaller gathering with a few new traditions. Sign up for a virtual race, have a game night, make advent calendars, or take a walk!

After dinner, nap off the turkey coma with a holiday movie. Better yet, break out the rest of your holiday decorations and turn up the Christmas music!

Basic Thanksgiving Menu

If you are serving 6-8 people on Thanksgiving Day, consider this super basic menu to keep things simple.

  • Oven Roasted Turkey Breast
  • Cranberry Sauce – easily cut this recipe in half!
  • Cornbread Dressing – prepare according to directions, bake a portion in an 8×8 dish and freeze the rest.
  • Sautéed Green Beans – healthy and elegant side!
  • Mashed Potatoes – cut this recipe in half!
  • Bread

There are several more options to choose from in my holiday category! A more intimate holiday gathering means a smaller celebration with meaning and gratitude!

More Holiday Recipes

Granny’s Classic Ambrosia Recipe (The Original!)

Basic Thanksgiving Tips for a Small Gathering (Menu included!)

Traditional stuffing side dish for Thanksgiving or Christmas in a baking pan

Southern Cornbread Dressing Recipe

60+ Thanksgiving Songs for Your Turkey Day Playlist

Green beans casserole, traditional side dish for Thanksgiving

Green Bean Casserole Recipe – From Scratch!

Mashed potato with spoon, in a copper pot

The Best Homemade Mashed Potatoes!

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My name is Anna Kate and you can find me dishing up delicious, Southern recipes your family will love.

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