Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and of course, a delicious meal. However, with food costs on the rise, hosting a traditional feast can put a strain on your wallet. The good news is you don't have to sacrifice tradition to stick to a budget. With some smart planning, you can create a memorable dinner that everyone will love without overspending.

Here are five practical ways to save money on your Thanksgiving meal this year.

Create a Game Plan for Your Menu and Budget

The first step to saving money is having a clear plan. Decide on your Thanksgiving menu (and budget) ahead of time, focusing on must-have dishes that everyone enjoys. This helps you avoid overspending on items that may go uneaten.

Simplify Your Dish Selection

More dishes don’t always mean a better meal. Consider scaling back your menu to focus on a few standout items rather than preparing a huge variety. For example, if you usually make both mashed potatoes and sweet potatoes, consider picking just one.

Shop Early and Take Advantage of Deals

Last-minute shopping can cost you more, both in money and in stress. Prices may rise as Thanksgiving approaches, and popular items like turkeys or cranberry sauce may sell out. Start shopping early for non-perishable and frozen foods to take advantage of lower prices and better selection. And don’t forget the coupons!

Keep Drinks Simple

Drinks can eat up a surprising portion of your budget if you’re not careful. Instead of setting up a full bar, consider offering a few affordable drink options, like a signature punch or boxed wine (tip: pour boxed wine into carafes for an elevated appearance). Offering soda? Skip the cans and go for the 2-liter bottles. You can also ask guests to bring their own beverages.

Minimize the hors d’oeuvres

Let the turkey and desserts shine! Keep appetizers to a minimum – or scrap them all together. Why risk your guests getting full before the meal begins? If skipping the starters doesn’t seem right, choose lighter, more budget-friendly options.

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to cost a fortune. By planning your menu, scaling back on unnecessary dishes, and shopping smart, you can host a memorable holiday meal without breaking the bank.