The Exact Menu This Editor Uses to Host a Big Friendsgiving For Less Than $45
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Growing up, my house was the sleepover house — and the afterschool playdate house, the scout meeting house, and the study group house, for that matter. In other words, I was learning to host way before I learned to drive. Now that I have my own place, I'm always the one inviting people over for Friday night drinks or Sunday evening dinner.
The problem? I can get a little carried away building a cheese plate or following an ambitious dessert recipe, much to my bank account's chagrin. That's why I had to come up with a better strategy for Friendsgiving — and this menu that feeds 10 people for less than $45 definitely fits the bill.
Everything comes from Sam's Club — since they offer all the Thanksgiving essentials at prices you just can't beat, there's no reason to make things from scratch. In fact, Sam's Club is my go-to store for all things holiday, thanks to their incredible savings, exclusive products, and super easy shopping experience. Here's the exact menu I use to feed a crowd for Friendsgiving on a budget — become a Sam's Club member to replicate this easy and tasty holiday meal for your crew. Happy hosting!
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Member's Mark™ Hickory Smoked Turkey
A gorgeous, golden-brown turkey is the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving table. Roasting one yourself can be a major pain, though — opting for a pre-cooked bird saves a ton of prep and clean-up time. This fully cooked turkey from Sam's Club ($1.98 per pound) tastes just as good as a homemade version — and it's about 10 times easier.
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Member's Mark™ Yukon Mashed Potatoes
I'm pretty sure my friends would rebel if mashed potatoes weren't part of the Friendsgiving table. These creamy, luscious premade potatoes ($6) can even be heated in the microwave — no need to turn on the oven!
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Member's Mark™ Yeast Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls ($6) are even more crucial the day after Friendsgiving, when I make tiny slider-style sandwiches with leftover turkey. Just thinking about it is making me hungry.
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Organic Green Beans
I grew up eating green bean casserole at holiday dinners, but these days, I prefer a side dish that's a little less heavy. I typically sauté my green beans ($5) until they're just tender (but still crispy), and season them with salt and fresh cracked pepper. If I'm feeling especially fancy, I might add a few slivered almonds and strips of orange zest for extra flair.
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Member's Mark™ Pumpkin Pie
It just wouldn't be Thanksgiving without pumpkin pie. Thankfully, Sam's Club sells this classic Fall dessert ($6) for an unbeatable price.
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