Nothing will destroy feelings of gratitude this Thanksgiving quite like an eye-popping grocery bill. With the average fresh turkey costing ~$70 (though you could spend much more), and prices for Thanksgiving staples like bakery items, meat, and veggies rising 5% to 7% this year, family drama may be the least of your worries. But that doesn’t mean the gravy train has to stop — we’ve got tips to help you enjoy a festive meal without breaking the bank. First, don’t wait until the last minute to shop. Most Thanksgiving ingredients can be frozen, and prices often rise as the holiday approaches. You can even try opting for a frozen turkey; fresh ones can be nearly three times the price. When you do shop, skip the pre-packaged foods in favour of fresh ingredients. Those just-add-water mashed potatoes you pretend to make from scratch may be convenient, but they’re less cost-effective thanks to shrinkflation. Next, invite your guests to bring a dish or drink to share, and don’t let leftovers go to waste — transform them into creative recipes like tacos, soup, or sliders.