Discover stress-free make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes to simplify your holiday prep! From flavorful sides to hearty mains and delicious desserts, these dishes can be prepared in advance, giving you more time to relax and enjoy the festivities.
Feast Without the Fuss: Your Guide to Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes! 🍂
Thanksgiving is all about coming together with your loved ones—but let’s be real: if you’re the host, cooking, cleaning, and catching up with everyone can get intense.
That’s where these make-ahead Thanksgiving dishes come in to save the day. They’re the absolute game-changers!
From appetizers to sides, desserts, and even main dishes, these make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes let you get a head start, giving you more time to relax and truly enjoy the day.
This Thanksgiving, you deserve a seat at the table, too.
Why Try These Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes
More Fun, Less Stress 🎉
With most of the cooking done in advance, you don’t have to juggle ten things at once, and you can actually hang out with everyone instead of being stuck by the stove.
Extra Punch of Flavor 💥
Some Thanksgiving classics actually taste even better the next day! Letting them sit overnight gives all those flavors time to mingle, so your pies and casseroles are extra tasty when you reheat them.
Easy Reheat & Serve 🍽️
These make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes heat up well—no loss of taste or texture. They’re just as delicious as if you’d made them fresh!
Focus on the show-stopping centerpiece 🌟
With most of the appetizers, sides, and desserts made in advance, you can give all your attention to your main centerpiece, or turkey.
Common Mistakes To Avoid ⚠️
❌ Not Planning Your Menu
Choose Thanksgiving recipes that are known to keep well and are easy to reheat. Stick with dishes that hold their texture and get better flavor with time.
❌ Not Using The Right Container
Storage is key for make-ahead recipes. Choose oven-safe dishes for baked items or microwave-safe ones for easy reheating. If you’re freezing any dishes, wrap them well and store in airtight containers.
❌ Overcrowding the Fridge
Thanksgiving dishes can take up a lot of space. A packed fridge doesn’t cool well, so make sure you have enough room to store all the prepped dishes to keep them fresh.
❌ Reheat Everything At Once
Reheating wisely in stages is important! To keep everything hot and ready at the same time, start with the dishes that may need a little extra reheating time, then add the ones that just need a quick warm-up. Avoid reheating dishes too early; you want them to be fresh and hot, not lukewarm. Timing is key!
❌ Forgetting About the Garnishes
For make-ahead dishes, adding garnishes right before serving is key to keeping them fresh and lively. Fresh herbs, toasted nuts, crispy onions—any of those toppings will add that vibrant, crunchy touch so they don’t end up soggy.
Thanksgiving Bliss: Prepare These Make-Ahead Recipes for a Perfect Feast! 🍁
Thanksgiving should be about coming together and enjoying each other’s company—not getting caught up in a kitchen frenzy.
With these make-ahead Thanksgiving recipes and a little bit of advance planning, you can feel more organized and a lot less chaotic.
Plus, you’ll have time to actually enjoy the holiday without the last-minute scramble and soak up those special moments with your loved ones!
Happy Thanksgiving, and enjoy every bite (and every moment) this holiday season! 🧡
Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Appetizers 🧆
Turkey Charcuterie Board {with Pear}
Recipe by Haute & Healthy Living
Ready in ~ 45 minutes
Yields ~ 15 servings
Why Everyone Will Love This ~ A Thanksgiving charcuterie board shaped like a turkey, featuring cheeses, fresh fruits, and sliced meats. Make ahead and keep chilled for a stress-free, holiday appetizer!
Get the Recipe for Thanksgiving Turkey Charcuterie Board!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 398kcal
Carbohydrates: 29g
Protein: 17g
Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball (Party Favorite!)
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ 15 minutes
Yields ~ 24 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Creamy, tangy cheese mixed with fresh herbs, rolled in dried cranberries, pecans, and chives. Prep in 15 minutes and make ahead. Simply shape, wrap, and chill until ready to serve.
Get the Recipe for Cranberry Pecan Cheese Ball!
5-Ingredient Slow Cooker Guava BBQ Meatballs
Recipe by Butter Be Ready
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 4-8 hours
Yields ~ 10-12 servings
Why It’s Great ~ Easy make-ahead Thanksgiving meatballs! Store in the fridge up to 4 days and serve warm for a satisfying holiday appetizer. Warm, satisfying, and perfect for your holiday gathering!
Get the Recipe for Slow Cooker Guava BBQ Meatballs!
Herbed Whipped Ricotta
Recipe by The Clever Meal
Ready in ~ 5 mins
Yields ~ 1 heaped cup
Why You’ll Love It ~ Creamy ricotta mixed with herbs and garlic, ready in under 5 minutes. Keeps 3 days in the fridge and pairs perfectly with anything. It is guaranteed to be a hit at your Thanksgiving dinner!
Get the Recipe for Herbed Whipped Ricotta!
Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs
Recipe by Crayons and Cravings
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 15 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Creamy, spicy jalapeño appetizer ready in minutes. Store in an airtight container or wrapped in plastic in the fridge for up to 3 days. Plus, they’re universally loved!
Get the Recipe for Jalapeno Popper Deviled Eggs!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 89 kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 4g
Salami Appetizer
Recipe by BabaGanoush
Ready in ~ 10 minutes
Yields ~ 10 servings (4 pieces each)
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Easy make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizer with layers of salami, cheese, and olives. Assemble in advance and refrigerate up to 48 hours.
Get the Recipe for Salami Appetizer!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 228kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 12g
Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tarts
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ 15 minutes
Yields ~ 24 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Flaky puff pastry filled with creamy Brie and sweet orange-cranberry sauce. Freeze up to 3 months, warm, gooey, and sure to be a crowd favorite!
Get the Recipe for Cranberry Brie Puff Pastry Tarts!
Cranberry Salsa
Recipe by Fresh Coast Eats
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Chill: 1 hour
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Vibrant, fresh, and tangy Cranberry Salsa is the perfect make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizer. Prep in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
Get the Recipe for Cranberry Salsa!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 47kcal
Carbohydrates: 12g
Protein: 0.3g
Make-Ahead Soups & Salads
Pumpkin Red Lentil Soup
Recipe by Dishing Out Health
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 40 mins
Yields ~ 5 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with Thai curry, coconut, and pumpkin, this satisfying pumpkin soup with creamy lentils is perfect for holidays. Plus, you can store it in an airtight storage container for up to 5 days.
Get the Recipe for Pumpkin Red Lentil Soup!
Nutritional Info for 1.25cups
Calories: 275kcal
Carbohydrates: 27g
Protein: 8g
Chicken Wedge Salad
Recipe by Orchids and Sweet Tea
Ready in ~ 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with tender shredded chicken, tangy blue cheese, and roasted chickpeas. Prep ingredients ahead and store separately; just assemble and add dressing when ready to enjoy!
Get the Recipe for Chicken Wedge Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 144kcal
Carbohydrates: 2g
Protein: 13g
Roasted Acorn Squash Salad
Recipe by Foolproof Living
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 30 mins
Yields ~ 6 serving
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with arugula, pepitas, cranberries, goat cheese, and pomegranate seeds. Store the roasted acorn squash, greens, and dressing separately, and assemble when ready to serve. Keep in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Get the Recipe for Roasted Acorn Squash Salad!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 365kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Vegan Curried Cauliflower Soup
Recipe by Nourish Plate
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Vegan and gluten-free soup made with good for your health veggies in under 30 minutes or less. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Also, this soup is freezer-friendly!
Get the Recipe for Vegan Curried Cauliflower Soup!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 237kcal
Carbohydrates: 16g
Protein: 3g
Autumn Grain Bowl with Maple Vinaigrette
Recipe by Plays Well with Butter
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins, Cook: 50 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Loaded with fresh, seasonal fall ingredients like kale, wild rice, quinoa, roasted spiced sweet potatoes, apples, and smoked gouda. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Get the Recipe for Autumn Grain Bowl with Maple Vinaigrette!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 337kcal
Carbohydrates: 38.7g
Protein: 15.6g
Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup
Recipe by Dishing Out Health
Ready in ~ Prep Time: 15 mins, Cook Time: 1 hour 10 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Made with the nutty flavors of wild rice and the earthy richness of mushrooms. You can store it up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Get the Recipe for Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 8g
Carbohydrates: 37g
Roasted Tomato Soup
Recipe by Lena’s Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep Time: 10 mins, Cook Time: 30 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A perfectly crispy, golden grilled cheese sandwich paired with tangy, rich tomato soup. Store the cooled soup in an airtight container. It will keep for up to 3-4 days.
Get the Recipe for Roasted Tomato Soup!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 175kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 18g
Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Sides 🥗
Creamy Garlic Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes
Recipe by Ambitious Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 4 hours
Yields ~ 10 serving
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Garlic-packed mashed potatoes made creamy with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Make ahead in the slow cooker, store in the fridge, and reheat with a splash of milk.
Get the Recipe for Creamy Garlic Slow Cooker Mashed Potatoes!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 204kcal
Protein: 4g
Carbohydrates: 31g
Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing
Recipe by What Molly Made
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 12 serving
Why You’ll Love It ~ Just dry out the cornbread, cook the chorizo, and chop up some veggies. You can store everything separately in the fridge for up to three days. When you’re ready, mix it all together and bake!
Get the Recipe for Chorizo Cornbread Stuffing!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 672kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 28g
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
Recipe by Oh Sweet Basil
Ready in ~ Prep: 60 mins, Cook: 50 mins
Yields ~ 6 serving
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ This sweet potato casserole is a Thanksgiving must! Prep the potatoes and topping ahead, store in the fridge, and bake on the day for perfect results.
Get the Recipe for Sweet Potato Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 579kcal
Protein: 5g
Carbohydrates: 98g
Green Bean Casserole with Bacon and Mushrooms
Recipe by Bites with Bri
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 1 hour 5 mins
Yields ~ 10 serving
Why You’ll Love It ~ A homemade twist on the classic, made fresh without canned cream of mushroom soup. Loaded with crisp green beans, savory bacon, and earthy mushrooms for a comforting Thanksgiving side!
Get the Recipe for Green Bean Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 268kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Cinnamon Bourbon Cranberry Sauce
Recipe by Kale Junkie
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 8 serving
Why It’s Great ~ A delicious, healthier twist on traditional cranberry sauce, refined sugar-free, and made with just 7 simple ingredients!
Get the Recipe for Cinnamon Bourbon Cranberry Sauce!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 268kcal
Protein: 14g
Carbohydrates: 16g
Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Mains 🥘
Stuffed Pepper Casserole (Super Easy!)
Recipe by The Recipe Critic
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins Cook: 45 mins
Yields ~ 8 people
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Hearty stuffed pepper casserole with seasoned meat, bell peppers, tangy tomato sauce, and melted cheese. Perfect for a comforting Thanksgiving dinner!
Get the Recipe for Stuffed Pepper Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 352kcal
Carbs: 27g
Protein: 28g
Turkey Pumpkin Chili
Recipe by Platings and Pairings
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 25 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Delicious and nutritious twist, this rich and creamy Turkey Pumpkin Chili will leave you feeling warm and satisfied. Plus, it keeps in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Get the Recipe for Turkey Pumpkin Chili!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 123kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 19g
Classic Beef Bourguignon
Recipe by So Much Food Blog
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 3 hrs 30 mins
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Tender beef in rich red wine sauce, perfect for special thanksgiving dinner. Stores 4–6 days in the fridge; serve over mashed potatoes or noodles.
Get the Recipe for Classic Beef Bourguignon!
Red Wine Braised Short Ribs
Recipe by Foodie Crush
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins Cook: 3 hours
Yields ~ 6 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ Tender, fall-off-the-bone braised beef short ribs slow-cooked in red wine, herbs, and garlic. Make 1–2 days ahead and serve with mashed potatoes for a cozy, thanksgiving meal.
Get the Recipe for Red Wine Braised Short Ribs!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 376kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 33g
Vegetarian Spaghetti Squash Casserole
Recipe by Platings and Pairings
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins Cook: 1 hour 15 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Creamy, comforting bake with roasted squash, tomatoes, Italian spices, ricotta, and Parmesan. Hearty and vegetarian-friendly, perfect for Thanksgiving family dinners!
Get the Recipe for Vegetarian Spaghetti Squash Casserole!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 223kcal
Carbs: 25g
Protein: 11g
Ground Beef Sheet Pan Lasagna
Recipe by The Recipe Critic
Ready in ~ Prep Time: 20 mins, Cook Time: 35 mins
Yields ~ 12 servings
Why You’ll Love It ~ A modern, make-ahead Thanksgiving twist on lasagna! This easy sheet pan version skips the layering for a delicious meal.
Get the Recipe for Ground Beef Sheet Pan Lasagna!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 497kcal
Carbohydrates: 36g
Protein: 27g
Old Fashioned Savoury Mince with Curry
Recipe by The Cooking Collective
Ready in ~ Prep Time: 5 mins, Cook Time: 15 mins
Yields ~ 4 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A comforting, satisfying, and wholesome meal made with ground beef, aromatic spices, and a touch of flavorful curry. Perfect meal for batch cooking, and make-ahead prep!
Get the Recipe for Old Fashioned Savoury Mince with Curry!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 332kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 32g
Make-Ahead Breads & Rolls 🍞
Rosemary Pumpkin Rolls
Recipe by Nutmeg Nanny
Ready in ~ Prep: 15 mins, Cook: 20 mins
Yields ~ 16 servings
Why It’s Great ~ Soft pumpkin yeast rolls infused with fresh rosemary and topped with a sprinkle of kosher salt. A simple, flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving table!
Get the Recipe for Rosemary Pumpkin Rolls!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 145kcal
Carbohydrates: 28g
Protein: 4g
Best Butter Garlic Rolls
Recipe by Rich and Delish
Ready in ~ Prep: 30 mins, Cook: 25 mins
Yields ~ 12 serving
Why You’ll Love It ~ These fluffy, soft rolls are generously brushed with a rich herb and garlic butter, perfect for soaking up sauces, soups, or serving as a comforting side!
Get the Recipe for the Best Butter Garlic Rolls!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 199kcal
Protein: 6g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls
Recipe by Modern Honey
Ready in ~ Prep: 3 hour 35 mins, Cook: 25 mins
Yields ~ 14-16 serving
Why It’s Great ~ Made from just 9 simple ingredients, these soft, fluffy dinner rolls with the rich, nutty flavor of caramelized brown butter and aromatic sage are perfect for holiday feasts!
Get the Recipe for Brown Butter Sage Dinner Rolls!
Nutritional Info
Calorie: 636kcal
Protein: 30g
Carbohydrates: 19g
Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread with Scallion Butter
Recipe by Butter Be Ready
Ready in ~ Prep: 10 mins, Cook: 30 mins
Yields ~ 9 serving
Why You’ll Love It ~ Buttery cornbread packed with sharp cheddar and a kick of jalapeño, served with rich homemade scallion butter.
Get the Recipe for Jalapeño Cheddar Cornbread!
Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Desserts 🥧
Bourbon Buttermilk Pumpkin Pie
Recipe by Aberdeen’s Kitchen
Ready in ~ 3 hrs 15 mins
Yields ~ 6-8 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ A tasty twist on pumpkin pie with a buttery crust, spiced filling, and a hint of bourbon. Make it ahead so the flavors really come together!
Get the Recipe for Bourbon Buttermilk Pumpkin Pie!
Vegan Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars
Recipe by Butternut Bakery Blog
Ready in ~ 1 hour + 20 mins chilling
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Vegan cheesecake bars are naturally sweetened, gluten-free, and can be made without an oven. Keep in the fridge for about 5 days or in the freezer for up to 6 weeks.
Get the Recipe for Vegan Caramel Pecan Cheesecake Bars!
Salted Caramel Apple Pie
Recipe by Sally’s Baking Addiction
Ready in ~ Prep: 3 hours, Cook: 1 hour 5 mins
Yields ~ 8-10 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Buttery, flaky crust filled with cinnamon-spiced apples and a gooey salted caramel layer. Make ahead and refrigerate up to 5 days, or freeze up to 3 months.
Get the Recipe for Salted Caramel Apple Pie!
Roasted Sweet Potato Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
Recipe by Butter Be Ready
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins, Cook: 1 hour 30 mins
Yields ~ 8 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~Creamy cheesecake with roasted sweet potato, warm spices, and a buttery gingersnap crust. Bake, chill, and serve within 1–2 days. Perfect for all the holiday meals!
Get the Recipe for Roasted Sweet Potato Cheesecake!
Pumpkin Lush
Recipe by Little Sunny Kitchen
Ready in ~ Prep: 20 mins Chill: 4 hrs
Yields ~ 12 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ No-bake pumpkin dessert with layers of cream cheese, spiced pumpkin pudding, and whipped topping on a buttery crust. Perfect make-ahead treat for thanksgiving dinners!
Get the Recipe for Pumpkin Lush!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 296kcal
Carbohydrates: 38g
Protein: 3g
Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blondie Trifle
Recipe by Easy Apple Dessert Recipe
Ready in ~ Prep: 1 hour 30 mins Cook: 40 mins
Yields ~ 10-12 servings
Why Everyone Will Love It ~ Trifle is the ultimate make-ahead Thanksgiving dessert! Assemble a day ahead to let flavors meld, then serve layers of creamy cheesecake, spiced caramel apples, and buttery blondie bites.
Get the Recipe for Caramel Apple Cheesecake Blondie Trifle!
Nutritional Info
Calories: 826kcal
Carbohydrates: 97.2g
Protein: 7.9g
And there you have it— make-ahead thanksgiving recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings!
Thank you for taking the time to read the post!
I really hope you give one of the recipes a try and love it! Don’t forget to leave a star rating ★ in the comment section below. Your feedback will help others and also means a lot!
Connect with ‘Kurry Kitchen’ on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and Pinterest, and don’t forget to hit that follow button.
Happy cooking!
