To make sure you don’t forget any Thanksgiving must-haves this year, we’ve included the list of the top 10 items that have their biggest sales day of the year the day before Turkey Day. Keep reading for more details!
Cheddar
Per the Instacart data, cheddar has its biggest day of the year—more than any other item—the day before Thanksgiving. Seeing as how cheddar tends to be a popular choice no matter what time of year it is, the large increase in sales just before turkey time likely means that mac and cheese, rich casseroles, and cheesy mashed potatoes, are all very popular Thanksgiving sides.
Cream cheese
This other dairy aisle find took second place, which makes sense considering it can be used in savory or sweet Thanksgiving recipes. While those who prefer savory foods might use some cream cheese in a dip or casserole, people with a sweet tooth could use it in a dessert such as these Pumpkin Swirl Cheesecake Bars.
Whipped cream
The frequent pie topper is third on the list of the most forgotten Thanksgiving ingredients. However, forgetting whipped cream doesn’t automatically mean you need to head back to the grocery store or place a delivery order. Feel free to either make a homemade version of the topping yourself, or use a whipped cream substitute.
Buns and rolls
With so much focus on the turkey, stuffing, and more, it’s no surprise that buns and rolls are often forgotten. However, since bread is best when it’s extra fresh, this is a last-minute purchase that actually makes sense.
Canned green beans
Canned green beans make for a great shortcut for a green bean casserole, which is why they are a popular pre-Thanksgiving purchase, and apparently one that’s often forgotten. Since canned goods often have a long shelf life, feel free to keep some of these in your pantry so they’re always on-hand, or buy them before the panicked Thanksgiving shopping period begins.
Butter spreads
Let’s be honest, since just about every Thanksgiving dish requires at least a pat of butter, it’s not a shock that the kitchen staple earned a spot on this list. If you find yourself in need of some last-minute butter for any cooking or baking needs, feel free to store it on the kitchen counter. This will allow the butter to come to room temperature, which means, in most cases, that it will be easier to work with.
Canned corn
This canned good, which makes an excellent standalone side or an addition to a classic cornbread recipe, is often forgotten. However, if you have any frozen corn in the freezer, you can often use that as a substitute for the canned stuff.
Boxed stuffing
Since stuffing often requires an array of spices and other ingredients, it makes sense that many Thanksgiving hosts would opt to go the boxed route. And apparently, of those who use the boxed stuff, many often forget to buy it. If you need boxed stuffing, or any other time-saving Thanksgiving items, consider heading to Trader Joe’s!
Fruit soda
Fruit soda has its biggest day of the year right before Thanksgiving—perfect for kids and the sober-curious looking for a fun drink.
Heavy whipping cream
Be it in mashed potatoes, scalloped potatoes, or a dessert, heavy whipping cream is a Thanksgiving must-have. However, if you, like many other shoppers, find yourself without this crucial ingredient, you can always whip up a substitute instead.
