Christmas dinner is right around the corner, and with it comes the chaos of prepping, cooking, and wondering why you agreed to host in the first place. But don’t panic just yet! The right tools can turn culinary mayhem into a (mostly) stress-free operation. These seven kitchen gadgets will make cooking faster, easier, and dare I say, a bit more fun. Let’s dive in before the relatives arrive and ask if you’ve “started the turkey yet.”
(Did you check out our list of Thanksgiving dinner must-haves?)
1. Toshiba 7.7QT Air Fryer
Faster Than Santa’s Sleigh
Why You Need It: Air fryers aren’t just for reheating fries anymore. This spacious Toshiba model can handle crispy roast potatoes, perfectly browned Brussels sprouts, and even reheating leftovers for round two (because there’s always round two). It’s quick, efficient, and a lifesaver when your oven is already overloaded.
How I Use It: I rely on this for side dishes that demand attention but not oven space. Plus, it makes me feel like a mad scientist when I toss veggies in, press a button, and watch them come out perfectly golden.
2. KitchenAid Professional Stand Mixer
Your Baking Buddy for Life
Why You Need It: If you’re baking pies, cookies, or bread this holiday season, this stand mixer is your best friend. Its powerful motor and multiple attachments make kneading dough, whipping cream, and mixing batters a breeze. Plus, it looks gorgeous on the counter, so you’ll feel like a pro even if you’re just making boxed cake mix.
How I Use It: It’s my secret weapon for buttery mashed potatoes. Just throw them in, add some cream, and let the mixer do the hard work. No elbow grease required.
3. Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Pressure Cooker
One Pot to Rule Them All
Why You Need It: This multi-tasking marvel can pressure cook, slow cook, steam, sauté, and more. It’s perfect for soups, stews, or that last-minute gravy when someone “accidentally” eats all the first batch.
How I Use It: I’ve made everything from pulled pork to mulled wine in this thing. It’s the only device that lets me cook like I have 12 hands.
4. Meater Plus Smart Meat Thermometer
No More Guessing Games
Why You Need It: Cooking a turkey without a thermometer is like playing Russian roulette with food safety. This smart meat thermometer connects to your phone, so you’ll know exactly when your turkey is done. No slicing and peeking are required.
How I Use It: I stick it in the turkey, let it do its thing, and casually pretend I’m just that good at timing. (Thank you, Meater app.)
5. Cuisinart Food Processor Mini-Prep 3
Small But Mighty
Why You Need It: This compact food processor is perfect for chopping, blending, and puréeing small batches of ingredients. Whether you’re making cranberry sauce or chopping nuts for your stuffing, it gets the job done without taking up precious counter space.
How I Use It: It’s my go-to for prepping garlic, onions, and herbs. Basically, all the stuff I hate chopping by hand because tears and garlic fingers are not the holiday vibe.
6. OXO Good Grips Mandoline Slicer
Consistent Slices, Zero Stress
Why You Need It: Want paper-thin potatoes for your gratin? Uniform apples for your tart? This mandoline slicer delivers professional-looking slices without professional-level effort.
How I Use It: I pull this out for scalloped potatoes every year. It’s quick, precise, and, as long as I use the safety guard, doesn’t involve a trip to the ER.
7. The Pink Stuff All-Purpose Cleaner
The After-Dinner Hero
Why You Need It: After the last crumb has been eaten and the dishes are stacked high, The Pink Stuff comes to the rescue. It cuts through grease, burnt-on bits, and whatever mystery stains appeared during dinner.
How I Use It: I use it to clean baking trays, stovetops, and the occasional wine spill. It works so well, that it almost makes me forget I promised to host again next year.
Final Thoughts
Hosting Christmas dinner doesn’t have to feel like a marathon of stress and burnt casseroles. With these gadgets in your arsenal, you’ll be able to cook with ease, impress your guests, and maybe even have time to enjoy a glass of mulled wine before dessert. Happy hosting!
Let me know if you’d like to tweak this or if you’re ready for the next listicle!
