When I was assigned the Thanksgiving food story, it was just about a 30-minute meal.

I decided to take it one step further and try to keep everything under $30 as well.

I was surprised at everything that I was able to purchase and stay on budget.

I was also a little disappointed as well.

When I planned the menu out, I wanted to use sliced turkey breast medallions, which I can usually find for $4.99 a package at most grocery stores.

Unfortunately, after searching a couple of stores, I finally found the turkey -- at $8.99.

I instead decided to use the turkey sausage -- $3.99 -- in the stuffing to stay on track with the budget.

But if your Thanksgiving calls for a turkey, there are options. Most grocery stores sell fully cooked rotisserie turkey breasts. Jennie-O has several different varieties of cooked turkey products as well -- just be willing to spend a few more dollars.

As far as the cooking went, it really can all be done in 30 minutes.

Start with the Dixie Sweet Potato Bake -- it takes the longest to cook -- then the Cheesy Green Beans, whichever dessert you choose, the Garlic Cheese Pinwheels and finally the Apple-Rosemary Stuffing with Italian Turkey Sausage and Rosemary Mushroom Gravy.

By the time you have the stuffing completed, everything else will be ready to come out of the oven.

Sit down, enjoy and be thankful.

Tips

* No pumpkin pie spice? A mix of cinnamon and nutmeg will work just as well.

* Use a mix of store-brand and name-brand products. They all taste virtually the same -- especially when used in recipes.

* Look for sales. Everything on the grocery list can be found at any store.

* All of the recipes can be modified to fit your family's tastes.

* If you want to save money, and have more time, boil your own sweet potatoes to make mashed ones. You can buy a box of regular wild rice and cook according to directions. Cost savings? About $4.