Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes

Think of the night before Thanksgiving as the main cooking day and Thanksgiving itself as the day for the turkey and a couple of sides. (Frankly, if you have time, start even earlier! You don’t need to “back into” the Thanksgiving Day feast.)

Which dishes can be cooked ahead? Think side dishes, stuffing, gravy, casseroles, and pies. Which needs to be cooked the day of? Think turkey! 

What to Do Ahead for Thanksgiving 

1. Stuffing

The flavor of stuffing is absolutely 100% better made ahead of time. It helps all the flavors come together. Make the day before, tightly wrap it in plastic, and reheat on the day.  See our do-ahead stuffing recipe.

2. Gravy

Many experienced cooks make their gravy in advance, often weeks ahead! The flavors deepen and improve as they meld. Our make-ahead Turkey Gravy is rich in flavor, thanks to two roasted turkey wings. Freeze—or this will last in the fridge a day or two without a problem.

 3. Pies and Desserts

Almost all pies taste better once they are thoroughly cooked and set, even if you plan to warm them up on the feast day. We guarantee your pies will be firmer, juicier, and less sloppy. This is undoubtedly true of pumpkin pie and pecan pie, which can last several days. Fruit pies such as apple pie can be made the day before to avoid a soggy crust. Whatever pie you make, you can always prepare the pie dough (which is the most time-intensive part) ahead of time and store it in the freezer; the night before Thanksgiving, defrost it and drop in the filling to bake it fresh.

Any cake should hold up well for a day or two. Cheesecakes and any dessert that is refrigerated are great choices. Our Pumpkin Satin Cheesecake will hold up nicely.
 

We also love this refrigerated Cranberry Dream Pie. 
 

Puddings also do quite well when prepared in advance and kept in the fridge. Try our classic Indian Pudding.

 

4. Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry Sauce can always be made a day or two in advance and stored in the refrigerator. (Don’t freeze cranberry sauce; it can drastically change the texture.)

5. Side Dishes

Any side dish that is a casserole actually benefits from being made a day ahead; the dish becomes more flavorful. This Green Bean Casserole is a classic and reheats nicely. On Thanksgiving, cover with crispy onions and bake.
 

Another fan favorite is the Sweet Potato Soufflé. Some of us aren’t big marshmallow fans, but this is one of our most requested recipes—and Thanksgiving is for the guests!

6. Soups

Soups are easy to prepare in advance. One of our favorites is this Vermont Butternut Squash Soup.

7. Appetizers

While we wouldn’t go crazy with appetizers before the big Thanksgiving feast, do serve something simple with drinks before the meal begins. This holiday Cheese Ball is delicious and always a hit.

A bowl of high-quality mixed nuts is also a fine idea, assuming your guests aren’t allergic to nuts. Guests love these addictive Spiced Nuts and often ask for the recipe!

A Few That Should Not Be Made Ahead

Of course, some Thanksgiving recipes should never be made ahead of time. We’re looking at you, mashed potatoes! 

1. The big bird should always be cooked on the big day. Turkey gets dried out, and its texture becomes very unappealing. Don’t forget to leave plenty of time for defrosting (and cooking)! If your turkey is frozen, it needs to be defrosted in a refrigerator. Allow one day of defrosting for every 4 pounds of turkey. See our tips on how to cook a turkey (and cooking times).
2. Of course, any fresh greens or salads will wilt, so make them on the day itself. You can chop up the vegetables but do not dress the salad until right before the meal.
3. Some folks will make the mashed potatoes in advance and store them in a plastic container. We’re not fans. You don’t want mashed potatoes to get gluey. In fact, we would not whip up those mashed potatoes until right before you serve.
4. If you’re making bread rolls, we’d also leave for the day of the feast (especially cornbread!). There’s just nothing like warm, freshly baked bread. Set your timer so you don’t forget the rolls! Try our wonderful Fall Harvest Squash Rolls.

Thanks For Reading!

Ready to consider the full Thanksgiving menu, including the turkey? Check out our classic Thanksgiving Feast Recipes.