Thanksgiving – a time for family, friends, and feasting. But let’s be real, hosting the perfect Turkey Day dinner can be overwhelming. Between cooking, serving, and ensuring everyone has enough to eat, it’s easy to feel stressed out in the kitchen. That’s why we’re excited to share our collection of 20 delicious make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes with you! These stress-free dishes allow you to prepare ahead of time, so you can focus on enjoying the holiday instead of worrying about what’s for dinner.
From classic mashed potatoes to savory green bean casserole and sweet treats like pumpkin pie, we’ve got you covered. Our make-ahead recipes are perfect for busy hosts who want to impress their guests without breaking a sweat. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each of these mouthwatering dishes, providing step-by-step instructions and helpful tips for making them ahead of time. So go ahead, breathe a sigh of relief, and get ready to serve up a stress-free Thanksgiving feast that everyone will love!
Classic Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
A comforting side dish that’s perfect for any occasion, these classic mashed potatoes can be prepared ahead of time and reheated to perfection. They’re a staple for many holiday meals and are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet or Idaho potatoes
– 1/4 cup milk or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Wash and peel the potatoes, then cut them into 1-inch cubes.
3. Place the potato cubes in a large pot or saucepan and add enough cold water to cover them.
4. Bring the water to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork.
5. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
6. Add the milk, butter, and salt, and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until smooth and creamy.
7. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a 9×13-inch baking dish and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Cooking Time: None needed, as this recipe is make-ahead only. Simply reheat the potatoes in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes, or until warm and creamy.
Slow Cooker Make-Ahead Stuffing
Make ahead of time and cook stress-free on the day of your holiday gathering with this delicious slow cooker stuffing recipe. This dish is perfect for a crowd, as it can be easily scaled up or down to fit your needs.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 celery stalks, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, onion, celery, and garlic. Mix until well combined.
2. Add poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper to the mixture; stir to combine.
3. Pour in chicken broth and mix until the bread is evenly coated.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meal with this easy-to-make turkey gravy that can be prepared ahead of time, leaving you more time to focus on the main event. This rich and savory gravy is perfect for serving alongside your roasted turkey or mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 2 cups turkey drippings (cooled)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 teaspoons dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the flour and a splash of the cooled turkey drippings until smooth.
2. Add the remaining turkey drippings, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Whisk until well combined.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat, whisking constantly.
4. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 5-7 minutes or until the gravy has thickened to your liking.
5. Season with thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Overnight Make-Ahead Rolls
Rise to the occasion with these soft, buttery rolls that are perfect for breakfast or as a side dish. With this recipe, you can prepare the dough ahead of time and bake fresh rolls whenever you need them.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups warm water
– 1 tablespoon sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 3 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– Optional: sesame seeds or poppy seeds for topping
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine warm water, sugar, and yeast. Let sit for 5-10 minutes until foamy.
2. Add flour, salt, and melted butter to the mixture. Mix until a sticky dough forms.
3. Knead the dough on a floured surface for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate overnight (8 hours).
5. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Punch down the dough and shape into rolls.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Make-Ahead Green Bean Casserole
A classic Thanksgiving side dish that’s easy to prepare ahead of time and perfect for busy holiday gatherings. This recipe yields a creamy, green bean-filled casserole with a crispy fried onion topping.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/2 cup French-fried onions
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook green beans according to package instructions or steam until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup and milk. Stir until smooth.
4. Combine cooked green beans, soup mixture, black pepper, and salt in a large mixing bowl. Toss until well coated.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions evenly over the top.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time:
– Refrigerated: 35-40 minutes, uncovered
– Frozen: Thaw overnight at room temperature and bake as above
Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce
This classic cranberry sauce recipe is a staple for holiday gatherings. By making it ahead of time, you’ll save yourself the stress of last-minute cooking and ensure a deliciously tangy condiment to complement your festive feast.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 2 tablespoons water
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, orange juice, water, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally.
4. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Make-Ahead Tips:
– Refrigerate the cooled sauce for up to 2 weeks.
– Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw at room temperature or reheat gently before serving.
Make-Ahead Sweet Potato Casserole
Simplify your meal prep with this delicious sweet potato casserole recipe, perfect for busy days or gatherings. With a medley of spices and textures, this dish is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sweet potatoes, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Dot the top with heavy cream and sprinkle granulated sugar.
5. If using pecans, scatter on top.
6. Cover dish with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 30 minutes, or until sweet potatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Make-Ahead Pumpkin Pie
Make-Ahead Pumpkin Pie: A Classic Fall Treat with a Twist
Take advantage of the convenience of make-ahead pumpkin pie, perfect for Thanksgiving or any other occasion when you want to enjoy the flavors of fall without the stress of last-minute baking.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup pumpkin puree
– 2 large eggs
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Add pumpkin puree and whisk until smooth.
4. Beat in eggs until fully incorporated.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish.
6. Pour filling into pie crust.
7. Bake for 15 minutes at 425°F, then reduce heat to 350°F and bake an additional 30-40 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and filling is set.
8. Let cool completely before refrigerating overnight or serving.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Make-Ahead Pecan Pie
A classic Southern dessert, pecan pie is a staple at many holiday gatherings. With this make-ahead recipe, you can prepare the filling and crust up to 2 days in advance, making it perfect for busy holiday seasons.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup light corn syrup
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup melted butter
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 1/2 cups pecan halves
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together corn syrup, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract until smooth.
3. Stir in pecan halves.
4. Roll out pie crust to fit a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with pecan mixture.
5. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until filling is set and crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Make-Ahead Apple Crisp
Make-Ahead Apple Crisp: A Deliciously Easy Dessert
This classic apple crisp recipe is perfect for busy days or special occasions. With a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy the warm, comforting aroma of freshly baked apples any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 medium-sized apples, peeled and sliced
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts (optional)
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced apples, granulated sugar, flour, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Toss until apples are evenly coated.
3. Transfer apple mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. In a separate bowl, mix together rolled oats, brown sugar, and chopped walnuts (if using).
5. Pour melted butter over the oat mixture, stirring until well combined.
6. Spread the oat mixture evenly over the apple filling.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until apples are tender and topping is golden brown.
Make-Ahead Roasted Brussels Sprouts
This recipe allows you to prepare roasted Brussels sprouts ahead of time, perfect for busy days or when hosting a crowd. With minimal effort, you’ll get crispy, caramelized results that are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and spread the Brussels sprouts in a single layer.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Make-Ahead Butternut Squash Soup
Make-Ahead Butternut Squash Soup Recipe
Get cozy with this creamy and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a busy day ahead. This recipe makes a large batch, so you can enjoy it throughout the week.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium butternut squash (about 3 lbs)
– 4 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.
3. Place the squash on a baking sheet, cut side up, and drizzle with olive oil. Roast for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
4. Let the squash cool slightly, then scoop the flesh into a blender or food processor.
5. Add onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the blender. Blend until smooth.
6. Transfer the mixture to a large pot and add broth and heavy cream (if using). Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes (including roasting time)
Make-Ahead Cornbread
Make-Ahead Cornbread Recipe
Summary: This recipe allows you to prepare the cornbread mixture ahead of time and bake it whenever you’re ready, making it perfect for busy days or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
– 1/2 cup buttermilk
– 1 large egg
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or sugar to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, salt, and baking soda.
3. In a separate bowl, whisk together buttermilk, egg, and melted butter until smooth.
4. Add honey or sugar if desired, then pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients. Stir until just combined (do not overmix).
5. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish or a cast-iron skillet.
6. Refrigerate or freeze the prepared cornbread for up to 24 hours before baking.
Cooking Time: Preheat oven to 375°F and bake for 35-40 minutes, or until golden brown and firm to the touch.
Make-Ahead Herb Butter for Turkey
Transform your holiday turkey into a showstopper by spreading make-ahead herb butter on the breast and rolls before roasting. This flavorful mixture of herbs, garlic, and butter is easy to prepare ahead of time and can be used on other meats or as a spread for bread.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh thyme
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, parsley, thyme, and garlic until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for up to 2 days or freeze for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None (make-ahead only)
Make-Ahead Caramelized Onion Dip
Elevate your snack game with this rich and savory dip, perfect for parties or gatherings. With a make-ahead option, you can focus on other tasks while the flavors meld together.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the sliced onions and cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re deep golden brown and caramelized.
2. Let the onions cool slightly before transferring them to a blender or food processor.
3. Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and paprika to the blender. Blend until smooth.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (caramelizing onions) + make-ahead time
Make-Ahead Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy dip is perfect for parties, gatherings, or just a snack-filled evening at home. With its blend of spinach, artichokes, and cheese, it’s sure to be a hit!
Ingredients:
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine artichoke hearts, spinach, cream cheese, mayonnaise, Parmesan cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix until well combined and smooth.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish or a serving bowl.
5. Cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: None needed! This dip is best served cold.
Make-Ahead Turkey Brine
Elevate your holiday turkey with a flavorful brine that’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time. This simple recipe ensures a moist and deliciously seasoned bird.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh sage
– 2 bay leaves
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine water, salt, sugar, and spices. Bring to a boil, stirring until the salt and sugar dissolve.
2. Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature.
3. Stir in orange juice and apple cider vinegar.
4. Refrigerate brine for at least 24 hours or up to 3 days.
5. Before cooking, remove turkey from brine and pat dry with paper towels.
Cooking Time:
– Allow 20 minutes of cooking time per pound of turkey.
Make-Ahead Cranberry Orange Relish
This tangy and flavorful relish is perfect for the holiday season, and the best part? It can be made ahead of time! With its sweet and sour combination, it’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup orange juice (fresh or bottled)
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts (optional)
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, orange juice, and sugar.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cranberries have popped and the relish has thickened slightly.
3. Stir in chopped nuts (if using) and grated orange zest.
4. Let the relish cool completely before refrigerating for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Make-Ahead Roasted Root Vegetables
Elevate your meal prep with this simple and flavorful recipe for roasted root vegetables that can be prepared ahead of time.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 carrots, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2-3 parsnips, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and chopped into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other seasonings of your choice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the chopped carrots, parsnips, and sweet potato with olive oil, salt, and pepper until they are evenly coated.
3. If desired, add garlic powder or paprika for extra flavor.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Make-Ahead Chocolate Pecan Tart
This decadent tart is perfect for parties or special occasions, as it can be prepared ahead of time and served chilled. The combination of rich chocolate and crunchy pecans will satisfy any sweet tooth.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup confectioners’ sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and confectioners’ sugar.
3. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; mix until smooth.
4. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
5. Melt chocolate chips in a double boiler or microwave-safe bowl. Stir in granulated sugar.
6. Spread chocolate mixture over crust.
7. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over top.
8. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: None (make-ahead)
Serve Chilled
Summary
Get ready to stress less and feast more with these 20 delicious make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes! From classic mashed potatoes and stuffing, to savory green bean casserole and sweet potato casseroles, to decadent pumpkin pie and pecan pie, we’ve got you covered. Our collection includes a variety of dishes that can be prepared ahead of time, allowing you to focus on enjoying the holiday with your loved ones. Try our overnight rolls, slow cooker stuffing, or roasted Brussels sprouts for a stress-free feast.