No Mess, No Stress: Guide to No-Cook Thanksgiving Meals

Turkey, ham, mash potatoes, yams, pecan pie, pumpkin pie, dinner rolls… those are just a few of my favorite Thanksgiving things. But let’s be honest— mama needs a little help with all that!

A few years ago, I took on the task of cooking my family’s Thanksgiving meal. It gave me great pride knowing that I could feed my family a multi-course meal. It also left me with a disaster of a kitchen. This year, I’m going with the “no mess, no stress” approach.

Now, if you’re willing and able to prepare your family’s entire meal, more power to you. However, if you’re considering a little help with your Thanksgiving meal (or even just a few sides), we’ve got you covered! Here are some of our top recommendations for a homemade-tasting, pre-made meal:

BBQ Style 

Start a new tradition with a BBQ-inspired meal. The following places are also great for stocking up on delicious sides like green bean casserole, mac n cheese, and corn-on-the-cob.

Cowboy Chicken / McAllen

(956) 686-7777 

Market BBQ / Laredo and McAllen

 (956) 267-9962 (Laredo)  / (956) 688-8092 (McAllen)

Rudy’s BBQ / Brownsville, Pharr

(956) 542-2532 (Brownsville)  / (956) 781-8888 (Pharr)

Offering pre-cooked whole turkeys and spiral glazed hams! (Order ahead)

Home Cookin’

Cracker Barrel / Harlingen, McAllen

(956) 683-1874

For you last-minute moms, you can order online just 24 hours in advance. 

Luby’s / Brownsville, Edinburg, Harlingen, McAllen, Mission, Pharr, Weslaco

Luby’s offers several of holiday meal packages, ranging from Select to Premium, to meet your budget.

Traditional Meals 

HEB / Valley-wide

Order online, starting 11/5! Four meal options, plus tons of a la carte sides.

Costco / Pharr

(956) 354-3900

Costco is always my go-to for parties and entertaining. Pick-up a pre-stuffed Turducken with your choice of dressing — and be sure to load up on sides, wine and pie!

SAM’S / Valley-wide

Sam’s is the perfect place to grab your cheese & veggie trays. They also have the famous Turducken.

Sprouts / McAllen

(956) 331-2123

Pre-order your bird now through Nov. 22! 

Whether your meal is homemade or pre-made,

the RGV Moms Blog wishes you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving!