Figuring out whether to cook at home or order takeout for the holidays can feel like a big decision. Cooking can be fun and rewarding, but let’s be honest — takeout is a lifesaver when you’re short on time or just not up for the challenge. Here’s a laid-back look at the pros and cons of holiday takeout, along with some handy tips to help you make the most of it.
Why consider takeout for the holidays?
Takeout can be a lifesaver during the holidays, but it has its ups and downs. Here’s a breakdown to help you figure out if it’s right for you.
Pros
- Time-saving: Skip the marathon cooking sessions. With takeout, you can actually kick back, enjoy the holiday vibe, and spend more time with your loved ones.
- Convenience: The food is ready to go, so you can skip the stress of starting from scratch and focus on enjoying the holiday.
- Stress reduction: No grocery lists, no chopping, no piles of dirty dishes to deal with.
- Variety: From vegan to gluten-free, there’s something for everyone if you pick the right spot.
- Consistent results: These meals are tried-and-true, so you can count on good flavors and presentation.
Cons
- Cost: Takeout can add up fast, especially if you’re feeding a crowd.
- Less personal: It might lack the cozy, homemade feel that makes holiday meals special.
- Reheating hassles: Not everything reheats well — textures and flavors can change.
- Limited options: Popular items sell out fast, so you’ll need to plan ahead.
- Portion mismatches: Pre-packaged meals might leave you with too much of one thing and not enough of another.
Takeout is great when you want to save time and keep holiday prep simple. It lets you focus on spending quality time with loved ones instead of juggling pots and pans. Plus, you skip the hassle of cooking, which means you can count on less mess and a meal that’s ready to enjoy.
Still, takeout might not feel as special as a homemade meal. Sometimes reheating can mess with the texture or look of the dish. To make it feel more like your own, mix in a few simple homemade touches — just enough to add a personal flair.
Takeout options for holiday meals
Many restaurants and grocery stores offer ready-to-go holiday meal packages that cover all the essentials, from main dishes to sides. Here are some popular choices:
- Whole Foods Market: Whole Foods has a good selection of holiday meals, including options for vegan and gluten-free eaters. It’s a great choice when you want variety without putting in a ton of effort.
- Boston Market: A go-to for comfort food fans, offering full holiday spreads with classic sides.
- Cracker Barrel: Perfect for heat-and-serve meals featuring turkey, ham, and other traditional favorites.
- Local restaurants: Many local eateries feature special holiday takeout menus — check in advance for seasonal offerings.
Combining takeout with homemade shortcuts
Takeout doesn’t have to do all the heavy lifting. Pairing pre-made dishes with simple homemade sides or shortcuts can add a personal touch without extra stress. Consider these ideas:
- Rolls or breadsticks: Stop by the bakery for some freshly baked rolls, or grab a pack of frozen ones to heat up at home. They’re always a hit, super simple to pull together, and make the meal feel a bit more special.
- Bagged salad kits: A salad kit is a quick and easy way to add something fresh to the table. Just toss it together, and you’re good to go.
- Make-ahead casseroles: Prep a green bean or sweet potato casserole a day ahead. It’s an easy way to add something homemade to complement your takeout meal.
Tips for a smooth takeout experience
- Order early: Holiday takeout can be super popular, and the best dishes always sell out fast. Get your order in as early as possible so you’re not stuck scrambling at the last minute.
- Check instructions: Make sure you know how to reheat everything. This keeps your meal tasting just as good as when you picked it up.
- Plan the timing: Schedule your pickup or delivery with a little buffer time in case of delays. Nobody wants a cold holiday meal.
- Make it your own: Even if the food is takeout, dress it up with a nice table setting, some fancy serving dishes, or a few simple garnishes to make it feel special.
Keep things easy
Hosting doesn’t have to be a juggling act, especially during the holidays. Whether you stick to takeout or add a few homemade touches, the goal is to keep things easy and enjoyable. A little prep goes a long way — you can serve up a meal everyone loves without spending the whole day in the kitchen.
