A Simple, Affordable Thanksgiving Dinner for Seniors & Older Adults With Limited Mobility

Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, a delicious meal. But for seniors with limited mobility, preparing a traditional Thanksgiving dinner can feel overwhelming or even unsafe. That’s why we were inspired by a TikTok recipe for a $12 Thanksgiving Dinner Casserole that’s easy, affordable, and adaptable for seniors. This recipe offers the comforting taste of Thanksgiving without the hassle of lifting a heavy turkey or managing complex cooking steps.

“Thanksgiving In A Bag”: Recipe For A Casserole Full of Holiday Flavors

This simplified casserole uses canned and packaged ingredients from Dollar Tree to create a hearty, layered dish with the classic flavors of mashed potatoes, green beans, turkey, stuffing, and cranberry—all for under $12.

Here’s how it’s made:

Ingredients:

• 1 package Idahoan Original Mashed potatoes
• 1 can french style green beans (can also use frozen)
• 2 cans of turkey (drained, broth reserved) – if canned turkey unavailable, substitute canned chicken
• 1 packet Pionner roasted turkey gravy mix
• 1 box turkey stuffing mix
• Dried cranberries (soaked in water to rehydrate)
• Milk
• Margarine
• Chicken Broth

Total cost $11.25

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes, follow the package instructions but substitute some or all of the water with chicken broth. Season well with salt & pepper and spread evenly into a baking dish as layer 1.
2. Spread on a can of drained french style green beans (if desired, this layer can also be green bean casserole by mixing 2 cans of green beans with 1 can of cream of mushroom soup and some french fried onions)
3. Drain the canned turkey, saving the broth for the gravy, shred the turkey well with a fork and spread it over the green beans.
4. Use the reserved turkey broth and water to prepare the roasted turkey gravy according to the package instructions. Pour the gravy evenly over the turkey.
5. Follow the stuffing mix instructions substituting all or some of the water with chicken broth and fold in the soaked cranberries. Spread the stuffing layer evenly over the casserole as the final layer.
6. Dot the top of the stuffing layer with small pats of margarin and bake at 400 degrees for 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the edges are bubbling.

With easy-to-follow steps and minimal cleanup, this 2-serving meal can be prepared in about 30 minutes. Even better, it can be assembled in a microwave-safe dish and cooked entirely in the microwave, making it accessible to seniors who might not feel comfortable using the stove or oven.

How The Thanksgiving-In-A-Bag Recipe Benefits Seniors

Cooking a traditional Thanksgiving dinner often requires significant strength, mobility, and coordination—skills that may be challenging for older adults. Tasks like lifting a 15-pound turkey, bending to place dishes in the oven, or standing for long periods can increase the risk of injury or fatigue. This casserole eliminates those obstacles while still delivering the holiday experience.

Key benefits of this recipe for seniors include:

• Safety: No heavy lifting or bending required.
• Convenience: Can be prepared in a microwave to avoid stovetop or oven use.
• Affordability: Costs under $12, making it an accessible option for those on a fixed income.
• Flexibility: Easy to customize with personal favorites like green bean casserole or extra gravy.

For Seniors with Dementia: A Caregiver’s Role

If your loved one is living with dementia, this recipe can still be a part of their holiday experience, but it’s essential to provide supervision. Tasks like pouring ingredients, assembling layers, or stirring can offer a sense of accomplishment while ensuring safety.

Caregivers can also take charge of more complex steps, like managing the stovetop or oven, while involving their loved one in simpler, sensory-friendly tasks.

A Meal for Any Season

Although designed for Thanksgiving, this casserole can be enjoyed year-round. Its comforting, warm flavors make it a perfect meal for chilly evenings or as an easy go-to dish for family gatherings.

The Bigger Picture: Making Meals Accessible

This recipe isn’t just about saving money—it’s about creating an inclusive holiday experience. Seniors with limited mobility or those living alone can still savor the tastes of Thanksgiving without the stress or physical challenges of preparing a full meal. By simplifying traditional recipes, we can help preserve the joy of cooking and eating, regardless of age or ability.

More Budget-Friendly Inspiration from @DollarTreeDinners

If you loved this simple and affordable Thanksgiving casserole, you’ll definitely want to check out more recipes from the creator behind it. Follow her on TikTok at @DollarTreeDinners for more budget-friendly meal ideas, or watch her full $20 three-course Thanksgiving meal on YouTube here.

Her content is packed with creative, low-cost recipes that make delicious meals accessible for everyone!