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Amazon’s $25 Thanksgiving Dinner vs. Walmart and Meijer and more...
Amazon’s $25 Thanksgiving Dinner vs. Walmart and Meijer
Amazon has a $25 Thanksgiving dinner deal this year, and I wanted to see how it compares to the Thanksgiving meals Walmart and Meijer are offering! All three stores are advertising affordable holiday meals, but they’re not giving you exactly the same groceries. Before you order, here’s what to know about Amazon’s deal, what comes in the basket, and whether Walmart or Meijer might be a better fit for your family.  What’s Included in Amazon’s $25 Thanksgiving Dinner?Amazon’s advertised $25 Thanksgiving meal includes an 8 pound Butterball turkey and ingredients for several classic sides including:
 I love that macaroni and cheese is included! Just remember that an 8 pound turkey is smaller than the turkeys advertised with Walmart’s and Meijer’s meals, so think about how many people you’re feeding. Amazon says the meal is available in eligible areas with same day grocery delivery through November 26, 2026, while supplies last. Your exact cart total and delivery options will depend on your address and the items available.  How to Order Amazon’s $25 Thanksgiving DinnerWant to grab Amazon’s Thanksgiving dinner deal for yourself? Here’s how to get started!
Keep in mind that prices and availability may vary depending on where you live. The advertised $25 meal may not be available in every delivery area. Amazon vs. Walmart vs. Meijer Thanksgiving Dinner Prices
Those are advertised basket prices, not guaranteed delivered totals. Prices, substitutions and availability can vary by location. How Does Walmart’s Thanksgiving Dinner Compare?Walmart advertises a $35 Thanksgiving basket with 26 items that serves 10 people. It includes a larger Butterball turkey, plus ingredients for traditional sides such as stuffing, green bean casserole, sweet potato casserole and corn casserole. One thing I really like about Walmart’s offer is that you can add the meal basket to your cart together instead of searching for every ingredient. Walmart says the $35 basket doesn’t require a Walmart+ membership or a coupon. See my Walmart Thanksgiving Dinner Deal post for the shopping details and the link to add the groceries to your cart. What About Meijer’s Thanksgiving Dinner?Meijer is advertising a Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people for under $35 using Meijer brand products. Its meal features a 14 pound turkey, along with traditional sides such as mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes and pumpkin pie ingredients. If you have a Meijer nearby, it’s definitely worth comparing your local store’s price before ordering. Meijer has also advertised frozen store brand turkeys for 79 cents per pound or less through November 26, subject to offer terms. Is Amazon’s $25 Thanksgiving Dinner Really the Cheapest?Amazon has the lowest advertised starting price of the three meals. But the baskets aren’t identical, and Amazon’s turkey is smaller. Walmart and Meijer both advertise meals for 10 people, so the better deal depends on how many people you’re feeding and which sides you want. And don’t forget delivery! A $25 grocery basket isn’t necessarily a $25 total at checkout. Check delivery fees, minimums, substitutions and any membership requirements before deciding. What Else Will You Need to Buy?These baskets include ingredients for specific dishes, but you may still need things you already keep in your pantry, like butter, eggs, milk, sugar or seasonings. Check the recipes you plan to make before assuming every ingredient is included. Some of my Favorite Thanksgiving Recipes
Which Thanksgiving Dinner Would I Choose?For a smaller gathering, I’d look closely at Amazon’s $25 Thanksgiving Dinner Deal, especially if delivery is available at my address. For a larger family, Walmart’s $35 basket or Meijer’s under $35 meal may make more sense because of the larger turkey and advertised servings. I’d compare the actual items in my cart before checking out. That’s the easiest way to see which deal saves the most for the Thanksgiving dinner your family actually wants to eat. More Thanksgiving Savings
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Thanksgiving Turkey Cupcakes Recipe
This Turkey Cupcakes Recipe is a fun one for Thanksgiving! Use up your leftover candy corn and create a fun cupcake that kids are going to love this Thanksgiving, with homemade chocolate frosting and candy eyes. This recipe uses a store bought cake mix or our Homemade Chocolate Cake Mix to create these super cuke turkey desserts.  Thanksgiving CupcakesThanksgiving is a fun time to pull out kid friendly recipes like these Turkey Cupcakes. They are easy enough to make and would be a fun cooking project to work on with your kids. Plus they would make a great addition to any other Thanksgiving Table Decorations for Kids that you might be planning to do this year.  You might also like to add Turkey Toes to the table. Make sure you grab the FREE Printable needed to make them.  Ingredients Needed
Tip: You can use a store bought chocolate cake mix or our homemade recipe for chocolate cake here.  How to make Turkey CupcakesThe full directions are in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this page. Here’s a quick look at how to make these turkey cupcakes.    Step 1: Prepare and bake cupcakes according to box cake directions or use our Homemade Chocolate Cake Mix. Allow to cool.  Step 2: Once the cupcakes have cooled completely, beat the softened butter and creamy peanut butter in a large bowl until creamy. Step 3: Add the powdered sugar and cocoa powder about ½ cup at a time, mixing until combined. Step 4: Add the vanilla extract and milk. Beat on high for about 3 minutes until the frosting is light and fluffy.  Step 5: Spoon the frosting into a piping bag fitted with a star tip, if using. Gently knead the bag to remove air pockets.    Step 6: Pipe the chocolate peanut butter frosting onto the cooled cupcakes. Step 7: Place a Nutter Butter Bite toward the front of each cupcake. Stand Reese’s Pieces upright behind it in three rows of yellow, brown and orange to make feathers.  Step 8: Pipe more icing from the front edge to the middle of each to make turkey neck and face. Step 9: Push 1 candy corn into head to make beak. Place 2 eyes above beak. Step 10: Place red melting chips into corner of zippered sandwich bag. Microwave for 45 seconds and knead to insure that they are melted and smooth. Step 11: Clip corner and pipe a waddle on the beak and down the neck of each turkey.   Turkey CupcakesThese adorable Turkey Cupcakes are made with chocolate cupcakes, creamy chocolate peanut butter frosting, Reese's Pieces feathers, and Nutter Butter cookie faces. A fun Thanksgiving dessert that kids will love helping decorate!
Servings 12
Calories 561kcal
Ingredients
Chocolate peanut butter frosting:
Instructions
NotesYou can use your own cupcake or frosting recipe if you’d like. Any store bought flavors work as well. If you can’t find Nutter Butter Bites you can use a full size Nutter Butter and cut it in half. You can also swap it for mini reese’s peanut butter cups. If you don’t want to use red decorating icing you can cut a red gummy worm, twizzler, or red air head for the gobble. Using frosting can cause the eyes and beak to fall off if it’s bumped on accident. If you want something that sticks better, you can melt some chocolate candy melts or chocolate chips and use that to secure the eyes and beak. NutritionCalories: 561kcal | Carbohydrates: 71g | Protein: 4g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 19g | Cholesterol: 82mg | Sodium: 450mg | Potassium: 176mg | Fiber: 2g | Sugar: 56g | Vitamin A: 532IU | Calcium: 70mg | Iron: 2mg  • View comments • Track comments •
Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Dinner (2026 Shopping List)
Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t have to cost a fortune this year! If you’re trying to keep your holiday grocery budget under control, Walmart has announced its 2026 Thanksgiving dinner deal, and it’s worth checking out.  For just $35, Walmart’s Thanksgiving Meal Basket includes ingredients to feed 10 people. That’s only $3.50 per person! The basket includes a Butterball turkey, stuffing, potatoes, vegetables, ingredients for several casseroles, dinner rolls, and even pumpkin pie. Wondering how Walmart’s Thanksgiving dinner compares to other stores? I also compared the Amazon, Walmart and Meijer Thanksgiving meal deals so you can see which one might save you the most money this year. Want to make Thanksgiving shopping even easier?You can add everything you need for this Walmart Thanksgiving dinner to your cart with just one click! No need to search for each item individually. Just click the link below, review your cart, and you’re ready to check out. I’ve put together the complete shopping list below, along with how Walmart’s offer compares to the 2026 Thanksgiving dinner deals at Aldi and Target.  What’s Included in Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Dinner?Walmart’s 2026 Holiday Meal Basket includes 26 total items across 17 different products. Here is the complete shopping list, organized by category to make it easier to see exactly what you’re getting. Turkey and Stuffing
Potatoes and Gravy
Green Bean Casserole
Corn Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole
Cranberries and Rolls
Pumpkin Pie
A quick note about the $35 price: Walmart estimates this total using an average 13.5-pound turkey and approximately 3.2 pounds of sweet potatoes. Your final price may be a little higher or lower depending on the actual weights and your location. That’s a pretty impressive amount of food for $35!  Now That You’ve Got the Groceries, Here’s What to Make!Here are a few easy Thanksgiving recipes you can make using the groceries included in Walmart’s Thanksgiving dinner deal!
Some recipes may require a few extra pantry ingredients. Keep in mind that you’ll still need to check your pantry for additional ingredients called for in your favorite recipes, such as seasonings, butter, eggs, or sugar. Planning Thanksgiving on a budget?Don’t forget to grab this FREE Thanksgiving Dinner Planner! It includes a shopping list, menu planner, cooking timeline, and budget tracker to help you get everything organized without overspending. A Few Things You Might Need for Thanksgiving DinnerBefore you start cooking, make sure you have everything you need! Here are a few helpful kitchen essentials that can make preparing Thanksgiving dinner a little easier.
Be sure to check what you already have in your kitchen before buying anything new. There’s no sense spending money on things you don’t need! How to Get Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Dinner for Just $25!This deal just got even better! Walmart’s Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people is already a great deal at $35, but you might be able to get it for just $25 with an extra $10 off coupon! Here’s what to do:
If the $10 discount applies, your Thanksgiving dinner could cost just $2.50 per person! These codes may only work on eligible accounts and orders of $35 or more. Your total may vary based on item weights, availability, taxes, and delivery fees. Be sure to check the final price before ordering. How to Get Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving MealYou can shop the Thanksgiving Meal Basket at participating Walmart stores or order the ingredients online. The easiest option is to use Walmart’s special Thanksgiving shopping page, where the ingredients can be added to your cart together. Walmart says the meal offer is available from October 28 through December 24, 2026. The advertised $35 price is based on estimated turkey and sweet potato weights. Your total may vary depending on actual weights, availability, location, substitutions, and applicable fees. Important: The advertised basket pricing excludes Alaska, Hawaii, Oklahoma, Puerto Rico, and Wisconsin. Get Free Express Delivery With Code THANKFULHere’s another offer worth knowing about if you don’t feel like making another trip to the grocery store! Walmart is offering free Express Delivery on qualifying Thanksgiving orders through November 30, 2026. Use coupon code: THANKFUL To qualify:
Availability and delivery options depend on your location. Always check your cart before placing your order to confirm the discount applies. The free Express Delivery offer expires November 30, 2026, but Walmart’s Thanksgiving Meal Basket will be available through December 24. Walmart vs. Aldi vs. Target: Which Thanksgiving Dinner Is Cheapest?Walmart isn’t the only retailer offering an affordable Thanksgiving meal this year. Aldi and Target have also announced special Thanksgiving grocery offers for 2026. Keep in mind that these meals include different foods and serve different numbers of people, so the prices aren’t a direct apples to apples comparison. Here’s how they compare.
Aldi’s Thanksgiving Dinner for Under $39Aldi is offering ingredients for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner for 10 people for less than $39. The shopping list includes:
There’s no coupon, loyalty card, or membership required. Aldi’s promotional pricing runs through November 25, although some seasonal ingredients arrive later. Turkeys become available November 4, and pumpkin pie mix November 11. You can see Aldi’s Thanksgiving Meal Deal here. Target’s $30 Thanksgiving Dinner for SixTarget is offering a Thanksgiving dinner for six people for $30. Its basket includes:
Target’s meal costs $5 per person and does not include dessert. The offer runs November 8 through November 29, 2026, and excludes Alaska and Hawaii. See Target’s Thanksgiving Dinner Announcement Which Thanksgiving Meal Deal Is the Best Value?If you’re shopping for a larger family, Walmart’s $35 basket is a really great deal. At $3.50 per person, it has the lowest advertised cost per serving of these three offers, and it includes ingredients for a wider variety of traditional Thanksgiving dishes. Aldi is another great option, especially if you prefer its stores or want a straightforward shopping list without coupons. Target could make sense for smaller gatherings, although you’ll need to budget separately for dessert if you want to serve pie. Remember that these aren’t identical shopping baskets. The best value for your family will depend on the dishes you actually plan to serve and what you already have at home. More Ways to Save on Thanksgiving DinnerBefore you head to the grocery store, take a few minutes to see what you already have in your pantry. You might already have some of the ingredients needed for your Thanksgiving dinner, which means you can put that money toward something else. I also recommend checking your local grocery store ads, comparing turkey prices, and keeping your menu simple. There’s no reason to make a dozen different side dishes if your family only eats three or four of them! The goal isn’t to have the most expensive Thanksgiving meal. It’s to enjoy good food and time together without stretching your budget. If you need a little help getting everything organized, grab my FREE Printable Thanksgiving Dinner Planner to plan your menu, make your grocery list, and keep your holiday spending under control.  Is Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Dinner Worth It?For families trying to save money this holiday season, I think Walmart’s Thanksgiving meal basket is definitely worth taking a look at. Getting the turkey, multiple sides, rolls, and dessert ingredients for around $35 can make planning Thanksgiving dinner a whole lot easier. Just remember to check availability, local pricing, and any extra ingredients you’ll need before ordering. Check Walmart’s $35 Thanksgiving Meal Basket Here What about you? Are you planning a traditional Thanksgiving dinner this year, or have you found ways to make your holiday meal a little simpler and less expensive?  • View comments • Track comments •
Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
If you’re looking for an easy appetizer for the holidays, this Pecan Bacon Cheeseball Recipe is one to add to your menu! It’s made with cream cheese, cheddar cheese, bacon, chopped pecans, and everything bagel seasoning. The combination is creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor, with a crunchy coating on the outside. Whether you’re putting together a snack board for Christmas, having friends over for game night, or need something simple to bring to a party, this cheeseball is easy to prepare and looks great served with crackers.  Why You’ll Love This Pecan Bacon Cheeseball
Ingredients You’ll NeedYou only need a handful of ingredients to make this easy cheeseball recipe. 
 How to Make Pecan Bacon CheeseballThis recipe comes together in a few simple steps. Just remember to save half of the bacon, pecans, and scallions for the coating!  Step 1: Mix the Cheese and SeasoningsIn a medium mixing bowl, add the cream cheese, shredded triple cheddar cheese, everything bagel seasoning, onion powder, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and milk. Use a hand mixer to combine everything until well mixed.  Step 2: Add the Bacon, Pecans, and ScallionsAdd half of the bacon bits, half of the sliced scallions, and half of the chopped pecans to the cheese mixture. Make sure the pieces are chopped small, then mix them into the cheese. Save the remaining bacon, pecans, and scallions for the outside of the cheeseball.  Step 3: Shape the CheeseballLay a piece of plastic wrap on the counter and place the cheese mixture in the center. Wrap it completely, then use the plastic wrap to shape the mixture into a ball.   Step 4: RefrigeratePlace the wrapped cheeseball in the refrigerator for 20 minutes. Step 5: Prepare the CoatingIn a shallow bowl, combine the remaining chopped pecans, bacon bits, and sliced scallions.  Step 6: Coat the CheeseballRemove the cheeseball from the refrigerator and carefully unwrap it. Roll it in the bacon and pecan mixture, gently pressing the coating onto the outside until it’s evenly covered.    Step 7: Serve and EnjoyPlace the finished cheeseball on a serving plate and serve with your favorite crackers or other dippers.   Pecan Bacon CheeseballThis easy Pecan Bacon Cheeseball is loaded with cream cheese, cheddar, crispy bacon, crunchy pecans, and savory seasonings for a delicious no bake appetizer that's perfect for holidays, parties, and game days!
Servings 6
Ingredients
Instructions
Helpful Tips for Making a CheeseballChop the mix-ins into small pieces. Smaller pieces of pecans, bacon, and scallions are easier to mix into the cheese and help the coating stick more evenly. Save half for the outside. Don’t add all the bacon, pecans, and scallions to the cheese mixture. You’ll need the remaining half to coat the cheeseball after it chills. Use plastic wrap to shape the ball. This helps you form the cheeseball without getting the mixture all over your hands. Serve with a variety of crackers. Offering a few different kinds gives everyone something to choose from. How to Store Pecan Bacon CheeseballKeep the cheeseball covered in the refrigerator at 40°F or colder when you aren’t serving it. If you’re serving it at a party, don’t leave it sitting at room temperature for more than 2 hours. If the temperature is above 90°F, refrigerate it within 1 hour. The original recipe doesn’t specify how many days the finished cheeseball can be stored or whether it freezes well. Frequently Asked QuestionsDo I need to bake this cheeseball?No! This is a no-bake appetizer. You simply mix the ingredients, shape the cheeseball, refrigerate it, and add the coating. What should I serve with a bacon pecan cheeseball?Crackers are an easy choice. You can also serve it as part of a larger appetizer spread with other snacks. Do the pecans and bacon all go inside the cheeseball?No. You’ll mix half of the bacon, pecans, and scallions into the cheese mixture. The remaining half is used to coat the outside after refrigeration. Can I make the cheeseball ahead of time?The original recipe includes a 20-minute refrigeration step before coating and serving. It doesn’t provide instructions for making the cheeseball a day or more in advance, so that would need to be verified before recommending it. More Appetizer RecipesIf you liked this recipe, you’ll love these ones too:
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Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke Dip
Made with spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, and mozzarella, this warm and creamy dip is perfect for holiday parties, game days, or anytime you need something everyone can scoop up with crackers or bread. And since everything cooks together in the slow cooker, you don’t have to worry about keeping an eye on something in the oven while you’re getting everything else ready.  Why You’ll Love This Spinach Artichoke DipI love recipes that make entertaining a little easier, especially during the busy holiday season. With just a handful of ingredients and about five minutes of prep time, this crockpot spinach artichoke dip is easy to get started. The slow cooker does most of the work, and you only need to give it a stir partway through cooking. It’s a great option for Thanksgiving appetizers, Christmas parties, potlucks, or having friends over to watch the game. Ingredients You’ll NeedYou only need eight ingredients to make this creamy spinach artichoke dip! 
 How to Make Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke DipThis dip only takes a few minutes to put together before the slow cooker takes over. Step 1: Prepare the ArtichokesDrain the canned artichokes and cut them into small pieces.   Step 2: Cut the Cream CheeseCut the cream cheese into eight pieces so it’s easier to combine with the other ingredients as it heats.   Step 3: Add Everything to the Slow CookerPlace the cream cheese, chopped artichokes, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, and salt into the slow cooker. Add the fresh spinach on top.   Step 4: Cook on LowCover and cook on LOW for approximately 2 to 2½ hours. After the first hour, stir everything together to mix the spinach into the creamy cheese mixture. Continue cooking until the dip is heated through and the ingredients are well combined.  Step 5: Serve WarmGive the dip one final stir before serving. Serve warm with your favorite crackers or slices of bread.  Instructions Slow Cooker Spinach Artichoke DipSimple slow cooker recipe for homemade spinach artichoke dip appetizer.
Servings 6
Ingredients
Instructions
StorageRefrigeratorTransfer leftover spinach artichoke dip to an airtight container and refrigerate within two hours of serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. FreezerBecause this recipe contains cream cheese and sour cream, freezing may affect its smooth, creamy texture. The dip may become grainy or separate when thawed. For the best texture, I’d recommend enjoying it fresh or refrigerated rather than freezing it. ReheatingReheat leftovers in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, stirring between intervals. Heat leftovers to 165°F. FAQsCan I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?The original recipe calls for fresh spinach. Frozen spinach may work, but the amount and preparation would need to be adjusted. I haven’t verified that substitution for this recipe. What should I serve with spinach artichoke dip?Crackers and slices of bread are both great options. You could also serve it with toasted baguette slices or tortilla chips. Do I need to cook the spinach before adding it to the slow cooker?No. For this recipe, the fresh spinach goes directly into the slow cooker. You’ll stir it into the dip after the first hour of cooking. How long does spinach artichoke dip take in the slow cooker?The original recipe lists approximately 2 to 2½ hours on LOW, with a stir after the first hour. Cooking time may vary depending on your slow cooker. Can I make spinach artichoke dip ahead of time?You can prepare the dip ahead and refrigerate it promptly after cooking, then reheat it thoroughly before serving. For the best texture, stir well as it warms. More RecipesIf you liked this recipe, you’ll love these ones too:
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