The holidays are a time for joy, togetherness, and, of course, plenty of delicious food, but let’s be honest—Holiday cooking can also feel like a whirlwind of planning, prepping, and juggling dishes while trying to keep your cool.
Whether you’re hosting your first family gathering or are a seasoned pro looking to simplify, a little preparation and the right mindset can go a long way.
That’s why we’ve rounded up the top 10 tastiest tips to help you navigate the chaos of holiday cooking this year.
So, roll up your sleeves, grab your favorite spatula, and let’s mix it up and make this holiday season stress-free and full of flavor!
Helpful Hacks for Handling the Kitchen Stress of the “Season”
1. Keep It Simple—Don’t Overcomplicate the Cooking
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, not stress, so don’t overexert or overwhelm yourself by trying to master complicated recipes.
Instead of attempting an elaborate, five-course feast, focus on a few well-loved dishes that are manageable and meaningful. Choose recipes with familiar ingredients and simple steps, allowing you to savor the spirited sentiments of the season rather than soaking up the side dish of stress.
You don’t need to serve a snobby spread of food fit for only gourmets to impress your guests—Sometimes the simplest dishes are the most memorable. A hearty roast, a couple of vibrant sides, and a classic dessert can create just as much magic as a complex menu.
Remember, the holidays are about connection, not complexity—keeping things simple leaves you with more time to laugh, share stories, and cherish the moments that truly matter.
2. Prep Like a Pro
The key to a smooth holiday cooking experience starts with planning. Begin by creating a menu that balances simple crowd-pleasers with a few standout dishes.
Once your menu is set, break it down into steps: Make a detailed shopping list, gather your ingredients, and think about what processes and ingredients can be prepped ahead. Chop vegetables, measure spices, or even prepare sauces the day before—It’s amazing how much time you’ll save on the big day.
Having a plan and prepping in advance not only keeps you organized but also gives you the freedom to enjoy the cooking process and spend more time with your loved ones.
3. Keep Your Kitchen Clean and Organized
Keep in mind that a clean, organized kitchen is your best ally during holiday cooking.
Before you start, clear your counters and set up designated areas for prep, cooking, and plating. As you cook, clean as you go—Wash mixing bowls, wipe down surfaces, and load the dishwasher between tasks.
This not only keeps your workspace manageable but also makes the final cleanup much easier. Plus, organizing tools and ingredients within easy reach will save you from wasting time and making a mess from having to rummage aimlessly through drawers mid-recipe.
When your kitchen stays tidy, cooking feels less chaotic, and you can focus on bringing your delicious dishes to life!
4. Embrace Store-Bought Helpers
Not every part of your holiday meal has to be made from scratch to be deemed worthy for your classy, Christmas cutlery—Store-bought helpers can be a lifesaver!
From pre-made pie crusts and canned gravy, to frozen dinner rolls and pre-chopped vegetables, there are plenty of shortcuts that save time without sacrificing flavor.
Even seasoned chefs rely on a few store-bought staples to make their lives easier! Incorporating these items into your menu lets you focus on the dishes you enjoy making most while still serving a delicious, well-rounded meal.
Remember, the holidays are about enjoying time with loved ones, not stressing over every detail—So go ahead and let the store lend a helping hand!
5. Practice Before the Big Day
One of the best ways to ease the holiday cooking chaos is to practice before the big day.
Try out a few recipes ahead of time to get familiar with the steps and timing. This not only helps you iron out any issues but also gives you a chance to tweak flavors and make sure everything turns out just right.
If you're trying a new dish, a practice run can boost your confidence and make you feel more prepared. Plus, you’ll be able to troubleshoot any challenges ahead of time, leaving you more relaxed when it’s finally time to cook for your special guests!
6. Master One Dish at a Time Before Moving on to the Next
When you're practicing for the holidays, focusing on one dish at a time is key to building your confidence and skills.
Instead of trying to perfect everything at once, start with one dish, whether it’s a side, a dessert, or a main course. Give yourself the time to really learn the recipe, understand the steps, and adjust to your taste. Once you feel comfortable with that dish, move on to the next.
Having perfected a few recipes in advance makes it much easier to juggle multiple dishes on the big day. You’ll know exactly what to expect with each one, allowing you to stay organized and focused, and ensuring everything is ready to serve exactly when you need it.
This approach allows you to improve gradually, and by the time the holiday rolls around, you’ll be ready to shine in the kitchen—One dish at a time!
7. Give Yourself Plenty of Time to Cook
On the big day, giving yourself plenty of time to cook is a game-changer.
It’s easy to underestimate how much time each dish will take, so allow for a buffer between tasks. Start early, even if it means waking up a little earlier than usual.
This will allow you to pace yourself, avoiding the frantic rush that often comes with last-minute preparations.
Having extra time means you can deal with any unexpected hiccups, adjust flavors, or simply enjoy the cooking process without feeling rushed.
With time on your side, you’ll be able to keep everything running smoothly, leaving you more relaxed and ready to share your delicious meal with loved ones.
8. Utilize Useful Kitchen Tools Like Timers and Thermometers
Kitchen tools are your secret weapons when it comes to holiday cooking, and timers are at the top of the list!
With so many dishes to juggle, a good timer can help you keep track of cooking times and prevent any culinary mishaps. Whether it’s an old-fashioned egg timer, the timer on your oven, or the multi-timer feature on your phone, these simple tools ensure nothing gets overcooked—or forgotten.
Meat thermometers are another must-have, ensuring your turkey, roasts, or casseroles are cooked to perfection without guesswork. However, don’t stop there—rely on food processors to speed up chopping, slow cookers for low-maintenance dishes, and stand mixers for baking.
Even small tools like measuring cups, spatulas, and peelers can make a big difference in your efficiency. With these tools by your side, you’ll feel like a pro in the kitchen and tackle your holiday meal with ease!
9. Get the Rest of the Family to Pitch In
The holidays are a time for everyone to come together, and the kitchen is no exception!
Don’t be afraid to ask the rest of the family to pitch in on the big day. Whether it’s chopping vegetables, setting the table, bringing a side dish, or stirring a pot, having everyone involved can lighten the load and make the whole cooking experience more enjoyable.
Plus, it’s a great opportunity to share family traditions and create lasting memories. By working together, you’ll not only get everything done more efficiently but also have fun in the process, making your holiday meal a true team effort and a special bonding experience for the books.
10. Focus on Fun, Not Perfection
On the big day, it’s easy to get caught up in the details and stress over trying to make everything perfect, but the most important thing is to focus on having fun with the people in your life who matter most—Friends and Family!
Holiday cooking is all about bringing everyone together and enjoying the experience. Don’t worry if a dish isn’t quite as you imagined or if things don’t go exactly according to plan. Embrace the little imperfections—They often make the day even more memorable.
When you let go of the pressure for perfection, you’ll find that the joy of cooking and sharing a meal with loved ones becomes the real highlight of the holiday!
