13 Make-Ahead Dishes Perfect for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is all about spending time with loved ones and enjoying a delicious meal, but the last thing anyone wants is to be stuck in the kitchen all day. Make-ahead dishes are a game-changer, allowing you to enjoy the holiday without stress. From savory sides to indulgent desserts, these dishes can be prepared in advance, leaving you free to focus on what matters most. Imagine sitting down to a meal that feels just as fresh and flavorful as if you made it that day. With a little planning, your Thanksgiving can be both relaxing and delicious.

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Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving classic that can be prepared ahead of time to make the holiday meal run more smoothly. Creamy, buttery, and rich, they pair perfectly with turkey and gravy, making them a crowd favorite. You can make them a day or two in advance, store them in the fridge, and simply reheat them when ready to serve. The smooth texture and comforting flavor make them an essential side dish. With this make-ahead recipe, you can enjoy the day without worrying about last-minute cooking.

To make mashed potatoes, you will need 5 pounds of russet potatoes, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 stick of butter, salt, and pepper to taste. You can also add garlic for an extra burst of flavor, along with a pinch of nutmeg or sour cream for a creamy twist.

Peel and chop the potatoes into even pieces. Boil them in salted water for 15-20 minutes until tender. Drain the water, then mash the potatoes with butter and cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper, then store in a covered dish in the refrigerator. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

Stuffing

Stuffing is a Thanksgiving essential that can be prepared the night before and baked when the turkey comes out of the oven. This dish offers a savory combination of bread, herbs, and vegetables, making it the perfect side to complement your main meal. By making it ahead, you get to enjoy the benefits of a flavorful stuffing without the time crunch on the day of. Its hearty texture and flavorful depth make it an easy yet impressive choice. The best part is that it can easily be doubled or tripled for large gatherings.

For this stuffing, you will need 1 loaf of crusty bread (cubed), 1 onion, 2 celery stalks, 1 stick of butter, 2 cups of chicken broth, and a variety of herbs such as thyme, rosemary, and sage. You can also add chopped apples, sausage, or dried cranberries to make it unique.

Cube the bread and set it aside to dry out for a few hours. Saute the onion and celery in butter until soft, then add herbs and broth. Toss the bread cubes in the mixture until evenly soaked. Transfer to a baking dish, cover with foil, and refrigerate overnight. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30 minutes on the day of serving.

Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a creamy and comforting dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving spread. With its rich combination of green beans, mushroom soup, and crispy onions, it’s a hit with both kids and adults. This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge until it is time to bake. By preparing it the day before, the flavors meld together, making it even better when reheated. It’s the perfect side to balance out heavier dishes like mashed potatoes and stuffing.

For this casserole, you will need 4 cups of fresh green beans, 1 can of cream of mushroom soup, 1 cup of sour cream, 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese, and a handful of crispy fried onions. You can also add a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of milk to adjust the texture.

Blanch the green beans in boiling water for a few minutes, then drain them. In a large bowl, mix the soup, sour cream, cheese, and seasonings. Add the green beans and stir to combine. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with fried onions, and refrigerate until ready to bake. Bake at 350 degrees F for 25-30 minutes until bubbly.

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet potato casserole offers a rich, sweet contrast to the savory dishes typically served at Thanksgiving. Topped with a sugary, buttery streusel or marshmallows, it’s a treat in every bite. This dish can be made a day in advance, giving you one less thing to worry about on the big day. Whether you prefer a marshmallow topping or a crunchy pecan crust, this dish is sure to satisfy. It’s the perfect balance of sweet and savory for any holiday meal.

For this casserole, you will need 4 large sweet potatoes, one-half cup of brown sugar, one-fourth cup of butter, one-half cup of milk, and 2 cups of mini marshmallows or chopped pecans. Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for extra flavor if desired.

Peel and cube the sweet potatoes, then cook them until tender. Mash the potatoes with butter, milk, and brown sugar. Pour the mixture into a baking dish and top with marshmallows or pecans. Refrigerate overnight and bake at 350 degrees F for 25 minutes on the day of serving.

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie is a Thanksgiving classic that requires very little preparation if you make it the day before. The smooth, spiced pumpkin filling paired with a buttery crust is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With the pie made ahead, you can focus on other dishes without worrying about dessert. The flavors only improve as the pie chills in the fridge overnight. Whether served with whipped cream or a scoop of ice cream, it is the perfect end to your holiday meal.

To make pumpkin pie, you will need 1 can of pure pumpkin puree, 1 cup of heavy cream, 2 large eggs, one-half cup of brown sugar, and a store-bought pie crust. Spices like cinnamon, ginger, and cloves are essential for that perfect fall flavor.

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Mix the pumpkin puree, eggs, cream, sugar, and spices together in a bowl. Pour the filling into the pie crust and bake for about 45 minutes, or until the center is set. Allow the pie to cool, then refrigerate overnight before serving.

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry sauce is a simple, tangy side that pairs beautifully with turkey. Making it ahead of time ensures that the flavors meld and intensify, providing the perfect balance of sweet and tart. This dish can be stored in the fridge for up to a week, so it’s one less thing to make on Thanksgiving day. Whether you prefer a chunky or smooth texture, homemade cranberry sauce is always better than the canned version. It adds a fresh, vibrant color to your Thanksgiving spread.

For cranberry sauce, you will need 1 bag of fresh cranberries, 1 cup of sugar, one-half cup of water, and a splash of orange juice. You can also add a cinnamon stick or a dash of cloves for extra flavor.

Combine the cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the cranberries begin to pop. Simmer for about 10 minutes, then let it cool completely. Store in the refrigerator until ready to serve.

Apple Pie

Apple pie is a timeless dessert that everyone looks forward to during Thanksgiving. The sweet, spiced apple filling with a flaky crust creates a comforting finish to your meal. Making this pie ahead of time ensures that it will be ready to serve without any last-minute baking stress. The cinnamon, nutmeg, and tender apples create a warm, nostalgic flavor that pairs well with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. This dessert is best enjoyed after chilling in the fridge, allowing the flavors to settle.

For apple pie, you will need 6-8 medium apples (Granny Smith works well), one-half cup of sugar, 1 tablespoon of flour, 1 teaspoon of cinnamon, and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. You will also need 1 pre-made pie crust.

Peel, core, and slice the apples, then toss them with sugar, cinnamon, flour, and lemon juice. Fill the pie crust with the apple mixture, then cover with a second crust. Bake at 375 degrees F for 45-50 minutes, then cool and refrigerate until serving.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts

Roasted Brussels sprouts are a simple yet flavorful side dish that can be made ahead and stored in the fridge. Their caramelized, crispy edges and tender centers make them a great addition to the Thanksgiving table. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of Brussels sprouts, making them a healthier alternative to heavier sides. By preparing them in advance, you save time and still serve a dish that is flavorful and fresh. This side pairs perfectly with savory turkey and rich stuffing.

For this dish, you will need 1 pound of Brussels sprouts, 2 tablespoons of olive oil, one-half teaspoon of salt, and one-fourth teaspoon of pepper. You can also add garlic or balsamic vinegar for extra depth of flavor.

Trim the Brussels sprouts and cut them in half. Toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400 degrees F for 20-25 minutes until crispy and golden brown. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Pecan Pie

Pecan pie is a sweet, nutty dessert that adds a rich, decadent flavor to your Thanksgiving meal. The combination of crunchy pecans and gooey caramel filling makes it a favorite among many. Making this pie ahead of time ensures that you have a perfect dessert ready to go on the big day. The pie’s flavor improves as it cools and sits overnight, allowing the filling to set and the flavors to meld. Top it off with whipped cream or vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.

For pecan pie, you will need 1 one-half cups of pecans, 1 cup of light corn syrup, 3/4 cup of brown sugar, 3 large eggs, and a pre-made pie crust. A splash of vanilla extract adds an extra layer of flavor.

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. Whisk together the eggs, sugar, corn syrup, and vanilla, then pour over the pecans in the crust. Bake for 45-50 minutes, allowing the filling to set. Cool and refrigerate before serving.

Carrot Souffle

Carrot souffle is a light, fluffy dish that blends the sweetness of carrots with a delicate texture. It is an unexpected yet delicious addition to your Thanksgiving spread. By making this dish ahead of time, you save time on the big day and still enjoy a fresh and flavorful side. Its creamy, slightly sweet flavor is perfect for pairing with savory dishes like turkey and stuffing. The souffle will puff up beautifully when baked, impressing your guests.

You will need 4 cups of cooked, mashed carrots, one-half cup of sugar, one-half cup of flour, one-fourth cup of butter, and 2 eggs. You can also add a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.

Mix the mashed carrots with sugar, flour, butter, and eggs. Pour the mixture into a greased baking dish. Bake at 350 degrees F for 30-35 minutes until golden and set. Refrigerate until ready to bake again.

Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus

Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a savory, flavorful side that makes a great addition to any Thanksgiving meal. The crispy bacon contrasts perfectly with the tender asparagus, creating a delicious combination. It can be prepared ahead of time, so you can simply pop it in the oven when you are ready to serve. The smoky bacon adds richness, making this vegetable dish feel indulgent. It’s an easy, impressive dish that complements any Thanksgiving spread.

For this dish, you will need 1 bunch of asparagus, 8 slices of bacon, salt, and pepper. You can also drizzle with a bit of olive oil for extra flavor.

Trim the asparagus and season with salt and pepper. Wrap each asparagus spear with a slice of bacon and secure with toothpicks. Bake at 400 degrees F for 20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

Mashed Cauliflower

Mashed cauliflower is a low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes, but just as creamy and comforting. It’s a great option for those looking for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. This dish can be prepared ahead of time and simply reheated on the day. The smooth, velvety texture makes it a perfect side to serve alongside your Thanksgiving turkey. Its mild flavor pairs well with rich gravy or turkey drippings.

For mashed cauliflower, you will need 1 head of cauliflower, one-fourth cup of butter, one-half cup of cream, salt, and pepper. You can also add garlic or cheese for extra flavor.

Cut the cauliflower into florets and steam until tender. Mash the cauliflower with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth. Store in a covered dish in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Roasted Root Vegetables

Roasted root vegetables are a hearty and flavorful side dish that is easy to prepare ahead of time. A mixture of carrots, parsnips, and sweet potatoes brings a vibrant variety of colors and flavors to the table. By roasting them in advance, you can simply reheat them when needed, saving time and effort. The caramelization that occurs during roasting enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables, making them a delicious side. This dish pairs wonderfully with any Thanksgiving meal.

You will need 4 large carrots, 2 sweet potatoes, 2 parsnips, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for added flavor.

Peel and chop the vegetables into even pieces, then toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400 degrees F for 30-35 minutes, until tender and caramelized. Store in the fridge and reheat before serving.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.