Thanksgiving Should be a Warm, Abundant, Joyful Day, Not a Financial Stress Point

Our Why 🍗

With this year’s political turbulence, government shutdowns, and the instability of EBT pauses leaving so many families hungry, we knew we needed to step in and help. Thanksgiving is a moment to gather with loved ones, share comforting food, and create memories around a full table, and we believe no one should miss out on that, regardless of financial situation or access to resources.

That’s why we created two complete Thanksgiving carts to support families in different places in their lives. The first is an ultra-budget, 100% EBT-approved meal that feeds a crowd for as little as $23–$29. The second is an upgraded but still affordable cart designed to give you every classic Thanksgiving dish you expect, without the high grocery bill.

Both carts include full ingredient lists, step-by-step recipes, and one-click Instacart access to make Thanksgiving easy and delicious for every family this holiday season.

– Much Love,

StudioLink Recipe

PLAN 1: EBT THANKSGIVING CART (Ultra-Budget Edition)

✅ 100% EBT-approved ingredients.

✅ Instacart-optimized for fast delivery.

✅ Budget verified using real Dollar Tree + Walmart pricing.

(All EBT-approved. Mixed Dollar Tree + Walmart/ALDI.)

Feeds 4–6 people (full plates)

Main: Budget Herb-Roasted Chicken or Turkey Legs

Season chicken/turkey legs with salt, pepper, garlic, poultry seasoning. Bake at 375°F for 60–75 minutes until golden.

Mashed Potatoes (Instant)

Prepare with butter + broth instead of water for extra flavor.

Green Bean Corn Skillet

Sauté a can of green beans + can of corn with butter, salt, pepper.

Simple Stuffing

Prepare boxed stuffing with broth + extra mixed veggies for bulk.

Canned Cranberry Sauce

Serve chilled — zero prep.

Cornbread

Bake according to package. Substitute applesauce if no oil/eggs.

Brownie or Cake Dessert

Mix + bake. Use applesauce for a moist, cheap, egg-free option.

PLAN 2: STANDARD BUDGET THANKSGIVING CART (Upgraded but Affordable)

✅ Instacart-optimized for fast delivery.

✅ Budget verified using real Dollar Tree + Walmart pricing.

Feeds 8–12 people comfortably

Classic Herb Butter Turkey  

Mix butter + garlic + herbs and rub under the skin.

Roast at 325–350°F for 3–4 hours.

Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Boil potatoes, mash with butter + broth + salt.

Green Bean & Carrot Medley  

Sauté in butter with garlic and black pepper.

Savory Stuffing  

Use boxed stuffing but upgrade with sautéed celery + onion + herbs.

Warm Dinner Rolls

Bake or heat according to package.

Classic Cranberry Sauce  

Serve chilled.

Easy Pumpkin Pie  

Mix pumpkin filling + evaporated milk + egg.

Pour into pie crust.

Bake 45–55 minutes.

Serve chilled with whipped topping.