As the holiday season approaches, many cooks are scrambling to find ways to make their Thanksgiving meal more manageable. One solution is to prepare dishes ahead of time, freeing up your schedule for other tasks and allowing you to enjoy the company of your loved ones on Turkey Day. In this article, we’ll share 20 easy make-ahead recipes that will simplify your holiday cooking routine. From classic mashed potatoes to decadent pumpkin pie, these dishes can be prepared in advance and reheated when needed.
Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, these make-ahead recipes are sure to become new favorites. With options for turkey, sides, desserts, and even appetizers, you’ll find something to suit your Thanksgiving menu. So go ahead, take a load off, and let us help you plan a stress-free and delicious holiday meal.
Classic Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Classic Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes
These creamy mashed potatoes are a staple of holiday gatherings and family meals alike. By making them ahead, you’ll have one less thing to worry about on the big day.
Ingredients:
– 3-4 large Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or whole milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them. Bring 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.
2. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the softened butter, heavy cream or whole milk, salt, and pepper. Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a fork until they’re smooth and creamy.
3. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add garlic powder, chives, or grated cheese for extra flavor.
Cooking Time:
– Boiling time: 15-20 minutes
– Preparation and mashing time: 10-15 minutes
Freezer-Friendly Turkey Gravy
Elevate your holiday meals with this simple and convenient turkey gravy recipe that’s perfect for freezing and reheating.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups turkey drippings (from roasting or cooking)
– 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small saucepan, whisk together the turkey drippings and flour until smooth.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken broth and milk or heavy cream, whisking until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Pour the gravy into an airtight container or freezer-safe bag, labeling it “Turkey Gravy”.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (reheating only)
Freezing Instructions:
1. Cool the gravy to room temperature before freezing.
2. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Reheat frozen gravy by whisking it with a little water or broth until smooth and hot.
Overnight Slow Cooker Stuffing
This overnight slow cooker stuffing recipe is a game-changer for busy holiday hosts. By cooking your stuffing in a slow cooker, you’ll have a deliciously moist and flavorful dish without the hassle of constant monitoring.
Ingredients:
– 4 cups cubed bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1/2 cup chopped celery
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine bread, celery, onion, and parsley.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, chicken broth, and poultry seasoning.
3. Pour the wet ingredients over the dry ingredients and mix until well combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 6-quart slow cooker.
5. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Make Ahead Cranberry Sauce
This recipe allows you to prepare a delicious cranberry sauce ahead of time, perfect for holiday gatherings or everyday meals. With its sweet and tangy flavor, it’s sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz (3 cups) fresh or frozen cranberries
– 1 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup orange juice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon grated orange zest
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine cranberries, sugar, orange juice, and water.
2. 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.
3. Remove from heat and stir in orange zest and salt.
4. Let the sauce cool to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Prep-Ahead Green Bean Casserole
This classic American side dish is a staple of holiday meals, and with this prep-ahead recipe, you can enjoy it without the last-minute fuss. With a few simple steps, you’ll have a deliciously creamy casserole ready to bake whenever you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/4 cup French-fried onions
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook green beans and onion in boiling water for 5-7 minutes, or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cream of mushroom soup, milk, and black pepper. Stir until smooth.
4. Add cooked green beans and onions to the sauce mixture. Toss to coat.
5. Transfer mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with French-fried onions and shredded cheddar cheese (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Do-Ahead Sweet Potato Casserole
This recipe is perfect for busy days when you want a delicious and comforting casserole without the hassle of last-minute preparation. With this sweet potato casserole, you can prepare everything ahead of time and bake it just before serving.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, granulated sugar, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Mix well.
3. Add heavy cream, milk, and beaten eggs. Stir until smooth.
4. Pour mixture into a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with chopped pecans if desired.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the casserole is set and the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Freeze-and-Bake Dinner Rolls
Freeze-and-Bake Dinner Rolls are a game-changer for busy households. By preparing the dough ahead of time and baking fresh rolls whenever needed, you’ll enjoy warm, fragrant dinner rolls without the fuss.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 2 teaspoons active dry yeast
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup whole milk, lukewarm
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 egg, beaten
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine flour, sugar, yeast, and salt.
2. Gradually add lukewarm milk, stirring until a shaggy dough forms.
3. Knead for 5 minutes until smooth and elastic.
4. Place the dough in an airtight container or freezer bag, refrigerate overnight, or freeze up to 2 months.
To bake:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Remove desired amount of frozen dough from the fridge or freezer and let it thaw at room temperature for 30 minutes.
3. Shape into rolls and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Make Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey Brine
Make Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey Brine
Get a head start on your holiday cooking with this easy-to-make turkey brine recipe. Perfect for busy hosts, this flavorful mixture can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated until the big day.
Ingredients:
– 1 gallon water
– 1 cup kosher salt
– 1/2 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons black peppercorns
– 2 tablespoons coriander seeds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine water, kosher salt, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, black peppercorns, and coriander seeds. Whisk until the salt and sugar are dissolved.
2. Add the garlic and lemon slices to the mixture.
3. Place the brine in an airtight container or zip-top bag and refrigerate for up to 2 days before using.
4. When ready to cook, remove the turkey from the refrigerator and pat dry with paper towels.
5. Submerge the turkey in the brine for at least 12 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: At least 12 hours or overnight
Overnight Refrigerator Pumpkin Pie
Skip the hassle of baking a pie from scratch with this easy and delicious overnight refrigerator pumpkin pie recipe. This creamy, dreamy dessert is perfect for Thanksgiving or any fall gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 cup vanilla pudding mix
– 1/4 cup crushed graham crackers (about 6-8 crackers)
– Whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together heavy cream, pumpkin puree, sugar, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger until well combined.
2. Add vanilla pudding mix and whisk until smooth.
3. Press the crushed graham crackers into the bottom of a 9×13-inch dish.
4. Pour the pumpkin mixture over the crust.
5. Refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight (10-12 hours).
6. Top with whipped cream and pumpkin pie spice, if desired.
Cooking Time: None! Let it chill in the refrigerator.
Premade Butternut Squash Soup
Transform the flavors of autumn into a comforting, creamy soup with this easy-to-make premade recipe. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (14.5 oz) butternut squash puree
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine squash puree, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
2. Whisk until smooth.
3. Add butter, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; whisk until well combined.
4. Heat over low heat, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes or until warmed through.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Serve: Warm, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional), and enjoy!
Freezer-Friendly Cornbread
This recipe makes a delicious and moist cornbread that’s perfect for snacking or serving alongside your favorite meals. The best part? It freezes beautifully, making it a great option for meal prep or last-minute gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup yellow cornmeal
– 1 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 cup buttermilk
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, baking powder, salt, and sugar.
3. In a large bowl, combine melted butter, egg, and buttermilk. Whisk until smooth.
4. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and stir until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared baking dish and bake for 20-25 minutes or until a toothpick comes out clean.
Freezing Instructions:
1. Cool cornbread completely before wrapping tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
2. Place wrapped cornbread in a freezer-safe bag or container.
3. Store in the freezer for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw at room temperature or reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes.
Make Ahead Apple Pie Filling
Make-Ahead Apple Pie Filling Recipe
Stock your fridge with a delicious homemade apple pie filling that’s ready to use whenever you need it. This recipe makes approximately 4 cups of filling, perfect for topping yogurt, oatmeal, or using as a filling for cakes and pastries.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds apples (Granny Smith or other tart varieties work well), peeled, cored, and chopped
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons cornstarch
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large saucepan, combine chopped apples, sugar, cornstarch, lemon juice, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the filling has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and let cool completely.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Prep-Ahead Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Elevate your meal prep game with these tender and caramelized Brussels sprouts that can be cooked ahead of time and reheated when needed. Perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep marathons!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped pecans or walnuts for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
3. Spread the sprouts in a single layer on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and caramelized, shaking the pan halfway through.
5. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
6. Store roasted Brussels sprouts in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Overnight Chilled Cranberry Salad
Elevate your salad game with this refreshing and flavorful overnight chilled cranberry salad, perfect for a light and tangy side dish or main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1/4 cup crumbled goat cheese (or feta)
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the mixed greens, cranberries, and crumbled goat cheese.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the honey and apple cider vinegar until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently to coat.
4. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight (12 hours).
5. Just before serving, sprinkle the chopped pecans over the top of the salad.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is a chilled salad that requires no cooking.
Make Ahead Herb Butter for Turkey
This simple recipe yields a flavorful butter that’s perfect for spreading on turkey or serving as a side dish. By making it ahead, you’ll have one less thing to worry about when hosting your holiday gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, softened
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
– 1 tablespoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the softened butter, parsley, chives, and lemon zest.
2. Mix until well combined, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Transfer the mixture to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 3 days.
Cooking Time: None needed! This recipe is make-ahead only.
Freeze-and-Reheat Mac and Cheese
This classic comfort food gets a time-saving twist with this freeze-and-reheat macaroni and cheese recipe. Perfect for busy households, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time and reheats beautifully.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 tablespoons butter
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. Gradually add milk, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook until thickened, stirring occasionally.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Combine cooked macaroni and cheese sauce. Transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag for freezing.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Cook time: 20-25 minutes
– Freeze-and-reheat time: Up to 3 months
Do-Ahead Pecan Pie Bars
Simplify your baking routine with these easy-to-make pecan pie bars that can be prepared ahead of time. Perfect for potlucks, parties, or just a sweet treat at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 cup packed light brown sugar
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 cup chopped pecans
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and brown sugar. Add melted butter, eggs, and vanilla extract; stir until combined.
3. Fold in chopped pecans and salt. Press mixture into prepared baking dish.
4. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until lightly golden.
5. Allow bars to cool completely before cutting into squares.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Make Ahead Spiced Nuts for Appetizers
Elevate your party with these addictive, make-ahead spiced nuts that are perfect for snacking and impressing your guests. With a blend of warm spices and crunchy textures, they’re sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup mixed nuts (almonds, pecans, walnuts)
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, cayenne pepper, and salt.
3. Add the mixed nuts and stir until well coated with the spice mixture.
4. Spread the nut mixture on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until fragrant and lightly toasted.
6. Remove from oven and let cool completely.
7. Once cooled, add the granulated sugar and stir until evenly distributed.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Prep-Ahead Roasted Carrot Soup
Start your day with a comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner. This roasted carrot soup is easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a great option for busy households.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds carrots, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Toss carrots with olive oil, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 30-40 minutes or until carrots are tender.
4. Allow the mixture to cool slightly.
5. Transfer the roasted carrots to a blender or food processor with broth and blend until smooth.
6. Return the soup to a pot and add heavy cream if using.
7. Reheat and season as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting), 10-15 minutes (blending)
Overnight Chocolate Pecan Tart
A rich and decadent dessert that’s perfect for special occasions or everyday indulgence. This tart combines the deep flavors of chocolate and pecans with a buttery crust, all wrapped up in a convenient overnight preparation process.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped pecans
– 1 cup semisweet chocolate chips
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour and sugar.
3. Add softened butter and mix until a crumbly dough forms.
4. Press dough into a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
5. Sprinkle chopped pecans evenly over the crust.
6. Melt chocolate chips in microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
7. Pour melted chocolate over pecans.
8. Drizzle heavy cream over the top.
9. Cover and refrigerate overnight (at least 8 hours).
10. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake for 35-40 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to make this Thanksgiving season stress-free with these easy, make-ahead recipes! From classic mashed potatoes and turkey brine to overnight slow cooker stuffing and prep-ahead green bean casserole, there’s something for every busy cook. Plus, don’t miss out on freezer-friendly options like turkey gravy and cornbread that can be reheated at a moment’s notice. And for dessert? Try make-ahead apple pie filling or do-ahead pecan pie bars. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to enjoy the holiday without last-minute fuss, these recipes have got you covered.
