The 11 Cooking Tools You Need for the Holidays

Whether this is your first time cooking a holiday meal or your twentieth, these kitchen tools will help you make the best possible meal

 

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You've got your guest list, you've got your recipes, you've got your special occasion salt and pepper shakers. But you won't be truly prepared for the holidays unless you've got all the necessary tools to help you cook and serve this massive meal. Here, our must-have kitchen items for a successful holiday dinner.

  • Kitchen Timer
    Timing is key if you’re hoping to get all of your dishes on the table at once. Keep on top of everything with a reliable kitchen timer.

    Try the Taylor Stainless Steel Mechanical Long-Ring Timer, $10 at Sur La Table

  • Vegetable Peeler
    From potatoes to squash to the apples for your pie, this versatile kitchen tool makes prep work a breeze.

    Try the OXO Good Grips Pro Swivel Peeler, $11.52 at Amazon
     
  • Roasting Pan and Rack
    After determining the size of your turkey (about 1.5 pounds per person will provide plenty for the meal, plus leftovers), you’ll need a roasting pan and rack that can accommodate it. Remember to factor in the size of your oven, too.

    Try the Better Homes & Gardens 18/10 Stainless Steel Roasting Pan with Racks, $69.97 at Walmart
     
  • Brining Bag
    Many experts say that the tenderest, juiciest turkey requires brining the night before roasting. If you're going that route, a heavy-duty, supersize brining bag is perfect for the job.

    Try Kitchen Supply Turkey Brining Bags, $7.99 at Kitchen and Company

  • Turkey Baster
    While your turkey’s cooking, give it a buttery soaking every so often with the help of a turkey baster.

    Try the OXO Turkey Baster, $9.99 at Target


  • Digital Meat Thermometer
    Not sure if the turkey’s perfectly cooked? Remove the guesswork by using a digital meat thermometer (inserted into the fattiest part of the thigh) to test for doneness. You want to remove your turkey from the oven when it hits 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

    Try the Taylor Connoisseur Digital Folding Probe Thermometer, $18.40 at Amazon
     
  • Carving Board
    A solid maple cutting board with a channel to catch juices makes carving the turkey a mess-free endeavor.

    Try the Large Cutting Board, $29.95 at Crate and Barrel


  • Carving Set
    Once you’ve pulled that beautiful bird from the oven, you’ll want a super sharp carving knife and fork to help divvy up the goods.

    Try the Zwilling J.A. Henckels Pure Carving Set, $129.95 at Williams-Sonoma

  • Fat Separator
    No need to skim the fat by hand before you make gravy — just use a handy fat-separating measuring cup instead.

    Try the OXO Good Grips 4-Cup Fat Separator, $14.99 at Bed, Bath & Beyond
     
  • Potato Masher
    Whether you like your mashed potatoes slightly lumpy or completely smooth, a stainless-steel potato masher will help you get the job done right.

    Try the Martha Stewart Collection Potato Masher, $9.99 at Macy's

  • Pie server
    A pie server is essential for doling out slice after perfect slice of all those Thanksgiving desserts.

    Try the Stainless Steel Pie/Cake Server, $9.99 at Target


For even more holiday recipes and ideas, visit Holidaily!

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