Menu Planning Worksheet-Free Printable

If you’re reading this in real-time, IT’S TIME TO THAW THE TURKEY IN THE FRIDGE!  As I mentioned in my last post, I’ve been blessed to have a father who is a retired chef.  He makes the main dishes for Thanksgiving but lets us bring a few side dishes to the table.  This year I am in charge of the salad, cranberry sauce, asparagus, ham, and Justen is making gluten-free dairy-free biscuits.  

Although dad does most of the heavy lifting, I still need a simple system to keep things organized.  I suppose I could use an app to keep track of the menu; the truth is, I love to write and make lists! When my dad was working as a chef, he explained that all the planning started with a function sheet.  This sheet had every event listed.  From there, he would create his work list.  This work list would have the items needed for a particular party/event.  Lastly, there was a requisition sheet that they used to place food orders.  I suppose hearing all of this inspired my love for making lists, not to mention the daily list that I would see my dad write out at home. 

This printable worksheet is meant to be used like my dad’s work list; it’s great for any occasion.  You can use the columns to list menu items, who is bringing what, or items that you need to buy.  I like to add notes about games that are necessary to bring, as a reminder to start infusing water with fruit by a specific time, when to put out appetizers, etc.  The day of the event, and for a week leading up to it, this sheet is handy for me to add to or make notes on.  I guarantee it will help you get everything in order and will free up your mind from having to “remember to” or “don’t forget.”

A few things to remember to do or to try this year on Thanksgiving: 

1. Print out a handful of thankful for cards.  Ask each guest to fill out and share before dinner.  

2. Bring a new game to play after dessert.  

3. Create a new dish to try.  

4. Pick names for Secret Santa gifts.  

5. Play Thanksgiving trivia, here’s a great link full of fun facts.

 

 

I hope your Thanksgiving is full of blessings, love, friends, and family.  “We must find the time to stop and thank the people who make a difference in our lives.” – JFK

 

 

 

Here’s the link to my cranberry sauce recipe…enjoy!