Are you a busy host looking for ways to simplify your Thanksgiving cooking routine? Look no further! With these 20 delicious make-ahead recipes, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday without sacrificing flavor or quality. From classic mashed potatoes to innovative desserts and sides, we’ve got you covered with our collection of make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes.
Start planning ahead by making a batch of classic make-ahead mashed potatoes up to two days in advance. Simply boil the potatoes until they’re tender, then mash with butter, milk, and your choice of seasonings. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to reheat and serve.
Whether you’re hosting a small gathering or a large feast, our collection of make-ahead recipes will help take some pressure off your holiday cooking routine. So go ahead, get creative, and enjoy the company of your loved ones without the added stress of last-minute meal prep.
Stay tuned for more mouth-watering make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes!
Classic Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Elevate your holiday meals with these creamy, comforting mashed potatoes that can be prepared ahead of time. Perfect for busy gatherings or special occasions, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 large Russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil the potato cubes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.
4. Transfer the mashed potatoes to a baking dish or individual ramekins.
5. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours or freeze for up to 2 months.
Cooking Time:
– Refrigerated: Heat in oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20-25 minutes, or until warmed through.
– Frozen: Thaw overnight, then heat in oven as above.
Slow Cooker Make-Ahead Stuffing
A stress-free alternative to traditional stuffing recipes, this make-ahead slow cooker version allows you to prepare and cook your stuffing ahead of time, perfect for busy holiday gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine bread, melted butter, onion, garlic, poultry seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss until bread is evenly coated.
2. Transfer the mixture to a slow cooker and pour in chicken broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. When ready to serve, fluff with a fork and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Freezer-Friendly Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meals with a rich and savory turkey gravy that’s easy to make and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. This recipe makes about 2 cups of gravy, perfect for accompanying roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup turkey drippings (from cooking turkey)
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, whisk together the turkey drippings and flour until smooth.
2. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, for about 5 minutes or until the mixture thickens.
3. Gradually add the chicken broth, whisking to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the gravy has reached your desired consistency.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Freezing Instructions:
1. Cool the gravy completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag.
2. Label and date the container/bag, then store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. To use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or reheat from frozen by whisking in a little hot water.
Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce with Orange Zest
Add a burst of citrus flavor to your holiday dishes with this make-ahead cranberry sauce recipe, featuring the bright and tangy taste of orange zest. This easy-to-make condiment is perfect for Thanksgiving, Christmas, or any special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Salt (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the cranberries and pick out any stems or debris.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the cranberries, sugar, water, orange juice, and orange zest.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cranberries have popped and the sauce has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup for Thanksgiving
This creamy soup is a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. Roasting the squash brings out its natural sweetness, while aromatics and spices add depth and warmth.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 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 or half-and-half (optional)
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the squash in half lengthwise and scoop out the seeds. Place it on a baking sheet, cut side up.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Roast for 45 minutes or until the squash is tender.
5. Scoop out the flesh and transfer to a blender or food processor.
6. Add onion, garlic, broth, and cream (if using). Blend until smooth.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Make-Ahead Green Bean Casserole
Make-Ahead Green Bean Casserole Recipe
This classic casserole recipe is a staple for any occasion, and the make-ahead feature makes it perfect for busy households. With its creamy green beans, crispy fried onions, and savory sauce, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 1/2 cups French-fried onions
– 6 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté green beans, onion, and garlic until tender.
3. In a separate bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper.
4. Add the cooked green bean mixture to the soup mixture; stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Sprinkle French-fried onions and crumbled bacon on top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Overnight Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet Potato Casserole Over Night
A classic Southern dessert, this Sweet Potato Casserole recipe gets a head start by letting the ingredients mingle overnight. The result is a rich, sweet, and creamy casserole that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1/2 cup marshmallows, mini or regular
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, heavy cream, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
3. Pour the mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Top with marshmallows and chopped pecans (if using).
5. Cover the dish with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate overnight (8-12 hours).
6. Remove from the refrigerator 30 minutes before baking.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until the marshmallows are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Make-Ahead Herb Butter Roasted Turkey
Elevate your holiday turkey with this flavorful and easy-to-make herb butter recipe, perfect for a stress-free feast.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12-14 pound) whole turkey
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh sage
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (160°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together butter, parsley, sage, garlic, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Loosely fill the turkey cavity with the herb butter mixture, making sure to cover the entire breast and legs.
4. Place the turkey in a roasting pan and roast for 4-4 1/2 hours, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
5. Baste the turkey every 30 minutes with melted butter and juices from the pan.
Cooking Time: 4-4 1/2 hours
Chilled Make-Ahead Pumpkin Pie
Enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving with this easy-to-make pumpkin pie that can be prepared ahead of time and chilled until serving.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 2 large eggs
– 1 (15-ounce) can pumpkin puree
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together heavy cream, milk, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
3. Beat in eggs until smooth.
4. Stir in pumpkin puree until fully incorporated.
5. Roll out pie crust and place in a 9-inch pie dish. Fill with the pumpkin mixture and smooth top.
6. Bake for 15 minutes, then reduce oven temperature to 350°F and bake for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until filling is set.
7. Allow pie to cool completely before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Cheesy Make-Ahead Scalloped Potatoes
Elevate your potato game with this comforting casserole, perfect for a crowd or meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large potatoes, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine sliced potatoes, butter, salt, and pepper. Toss until potatoes are evenly coated.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
4. Layer half of the potato mixture in the prepared dish, followed by half of the cheese (cheddar and Parmesan).
5. Repeat the layers, finishing with the remaining cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle flour over the cheese to help the potatoes brown evenly.
Cooking Time:
– 45-50 minutes or until golden brown
– Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving
Make-Ahead Dinner Rolls with Honey Butter
Make ahead dinner rolls are a game-changer for busy weeknights or special occasions. These sweet and flaky rolls can be prepared in advance, rising to perfection while you’re busy with other tasks.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup warm water
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey Butter (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, yeast, and salt.
3. Add warm water and mix until dough forms.
4. Knead for 5-7 minutes until smooth and elastic.
5. Place dough in a greased bowl, cover, and let rise for 1 hour.
6. Punch down dough and shape into rolls.
7. Let rolls rise for an additional 30 minutes.
8. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Honey Butter:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 tablespoon honey
Mix ingredients together until smooth and creamy. Serve with warm dinner rolls.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes total (including rising time)
Slow Cooker Make-Ahead Cornbread Pudding
This sweet cornbread pudding is a perfect comfort food for any time of the year. With its moist texture and caramelized crust, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cornbread mix
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a mixing bowl, combine cornbread mix, milk, heavy cream, egg, melted butter, and vanilla extract. Mix until smooth.
2. Pour the mixture into a slow cooker coated with cooking spray.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 4-5 hours or high for 2-3 hours.
4. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
5. Serve warm, topped with caramelized sugar (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-5 hours (low) or 2-3 hours (high)
Make-Ahead Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. By making the dish ahead of time, you can focus on other meal preparations while still serving a delicious and flavorful side.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. In a skillet, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add garlic to the same skillet and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked Brussels sprouts to the skillet and toss with bacon and garlic.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Cook for 30 minutes, then remove foil and continue cooking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until Brussels sprouts are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Chilled Make-Ahead Apple Cranberry Salad
This refreshing salad is perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a quick weeknight dinner. With its sweet and tangy combination of apples, cranberries, and creamy dressing, it’s sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
– 2 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine diced apples, cranberries, and chopped pecans (if using).
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and salt.
3. Add the cream cheese to the wet ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Fold in the mayonnaise until well combined.
5. Pour the dressing over the apple mixture and toss until coated.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cook Time: None
Serve chilled
Make-Ahead Pecan Pie Bars
Make-Ahead Pecan Pie Bars: A Perfect Treat for Any Occasion!
These bars are a twist on the classic pecan pie, with a gooey caramel and crunchy pecans on top of a shortbread crust. They’re perfect for making ahead and serving at parties or gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup light brown sugar
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– 1/2 cup caramel sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F. Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
3. Press the dough into the prepared baking dish.
4. Sprinkle brown sugar evenly over the dough, then top with chopped pecans.
5. Drizzle caramel sauce over the pecans.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Make-Ahead Roasted Vegetable Medley
This flavorful medley of roasted vegetables is perfect for meal prep or a stress-free weeknight dinner. With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a delicious and nutritious side dish that’s ready to go whenever you need it.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss together the sweet potatoes, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Spread the vegetable mixture in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Roast for 35-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Freezer-Friendly Make-Ahead Cornbread
This recipe makes a delicious and moist cornbread that’s perfect for potlucks, picnics, or family gatherings. By making it ahead of time and freezing, you can easily thaw and bake when needed.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup cornmeal
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 teaspoons baking powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1 large egg
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– Honey or maple syrup (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease an 8-inch square baking dish.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, cornmeal, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and smooth top.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Freezing Instructions:
1. Cool cornbread completely on a wire rack.
2. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
3. Place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
4. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
5. To bake, thaw overnight at room temperature and reheat in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for an additional 10-15 minutes.
Make-Ahead Creamy Mac and Cheese
Make-Ahead Creamy Mac and Cheese Recipe
Get ready to enjoy a comforting, creamy macaroni and cheese dish that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. This recipe makes 6-8 servings and can be customized with your favorite mix-ins.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound macaroni
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional mix-ins: cooked bacon, diced ham, steamed broccoli, or roasted vegetables
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Slowly pour in milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, about 5 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and creamy sauce. Transfer to a baking dish or individual serving containers.
7. If using mix-ins, add them on top of the macaroni mixture.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Chilled Make-Ahead Pumpkin Cheesecake
This recipe is a perfect blend of fall flavors and convenience. With its creamy texture and pumpkin-infused goodness, it’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups graham cracker crumbs
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 16 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1 tsp vanilla extract
– 1/4 tsp salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). In a medium bowl, mix crumbs and sugar; stir in melted butter until combined.
2. Press mixture into a 9-inch springform pan.
3. Beat cream cheese until smooth; add sugar, eggs, pumpkin, vanilla, and salt. Mix well.
4. Pour cheesecake batter into prepared pan over crust.
5. Bake for 55-60 minutes or until edges are set and center is slightly jiggly.
6. Let cool completely before refrigerating for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Make-Ahead Spiced Mulled Cider
Warm up with this deliciously spiced mulled cider, perfect for chilly fall and winter gatherings!
Make-Ahead Spiced Mulled Cider Recipe
Ingredients:
– 2 gallons apple cider
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 cinnamon stick (6-8 inches)
– 10 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the apple cider, brown sugar, cinnamon stick, cloves, nutmeg, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
3. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
4. Strain the mulled cider into a large pitcher or jug, discarding the spices.
5. Refrigerate or freeze the mulled cider for up to 2 weeks.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Yield: 2 gallons
Summary
Get ready for a stress-free Thanksgiving with these 20 delicious make-ahead recipes! From classic mashed potatoes to roasted butternut squash soup, and from turkey gravy to pecan pie bars, we’ve got you covered. Our collection includes slow cooker and freezer-friendly options, perfect for busy hosts who want to enjoy the holiday without sacrificing flavor or quality. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or just looking for some extra help in the kitchen, these make-ahead recipes will save you time and energy so you can focus on what matters most – sharing a memorable Thanksgiving with loved ones.
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