Thanksgiving is more than a meal—it’s a tradition that brings family and friends together around a table filled with warmth, gratitude, and abundance. Whether you’re preparing a feast for six or thirty, the right tools can elevate the entire experience, from the roasting pan that carries your turkey to perfection, to the bakeware that makes your pies shine as brightly as the conversation. We asked seasoned hosts, designers, and culinary experts what essentials they reach for when crafting a memorable holiday gathering.
Tools to Give Thanks
1. Signature Roaster
For the centerpiece of the holiday—the turkey—nothing beats a sturdy, generous roaster. The wide handles make it easy to transfer from oven to table, even when you’re wearing bulky oven mitts, and the cast iron distributes heat evenly so the bird stays juicy while the skin crisps beautifully. After the turkey is carved, the low sides allow you to whisk up gravy directly in the pan.
2. 3.75 qt Signature Cassadou
Inspired by the rustic stews of Provence, this versatile pan is just as comfortable simmering sauces as it is frying or braising. With its deep bowl and long handle, it feels like a cross between a Dutch oven and a sauté pan—perfect for sides like green beans, mushroom gravy, or even a small batch of soup to start the meal.
3. Heritage Fluted Pie Dish
No Thanksgiving table is complete without pie. This fluted dish doesn’t just bake evenly—it turns out crusts with that golden, bakery-style finish. The scalloped edges make each pie look like it came straight out of a patisserie, while the sturdy stoneware holds heat long enough to keep slices warm for seconds (and thirds).
4. Heritage Rectangular Baker
For stuffing, casseroles, or bubbling sweet potatoes topped with marshmallows, a rectangular baker is the quiet workhorse of the kitchen. Its clean lines and vibrant glaze mean you can bring it directly to the table without worrying about presentation—it’s functional and elegant all at once.
Hostess Tip: Take It to Go
If you’re bringing a dish to someone else’s gathering, the Round Dutch Oven Tote Bag is a game-changer. Made to fit snugly around the brand’s most iconic piece, it keeps your Dutch oven safe and secure while adding a polished touch to potluck transport. No more juggling hot, heavy cookware or worrying about spills in the car—this bag makes arriving with style (and safety) a breeze.
Behind Each Dish
Thanksgiving isn’t just about what’s on the menu—it’s about the thought and care behind each dish, the beauty of a well-set table, and the joy of sharing time together. With a few timeless tools and meaningful touches, you can create a feast that feels effortless, elegant, and truly unforgettable.
But in the end, this holiday is about more than cooking; it’s about giving thanks for the blessings that bring us together.
“We entertain from 18–30 people, so we prepare all of the food in large quantity,” says hostess Emely McHattie. “I use two Le Creuset casserole dishes for the stuffing, so it goes easily from oven to table and looks beautiful.”