Thanksgiving is all about family, gratitude and of course, delicious food. But with so much to prepare, it can easily become overwhelming.
Thatโs why make-ahead dishes are a game-changer for a stress-free holiday. From creamy mac and cheese to savory stuffing, these ten recipes will help you save time without sacrificing flavor.
Get ready to impress your guests and enjoy more quality time with your loved ones this Thanksgiving.
Southern Baked Mac and Cheese
This southern baked mac and cheese is a creamy, cheesy delight that can be made ahead and simply heated up on Thanksgiving day. Its rich flavors and comforting texture make it a must-have on any holiday table, pleasing both kids and adults alike.
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes
Fluffy, buttery instant pot mashed potatoes are a breeze to prepare in advance. With just the right amount of cream and seasoning, these potatoes will be a crowd favorite and can easily be reheated, freeing up space on your stovetop for other dishes.
Easy Pumpkin Mousse
Light and airy, this easy pumpkin mousse is a delightful dessert that can be made ahead of time and keep in the fridge. Its festive flavors capture the essence of fall and offer a perfect, lighter finish to your Thanksgiving meal.
Make-Ahead Turkey Gravy
Smooth and savory, this make-ahead turkey gravy is a Thanksgiving essential. Prepare it in advance to ensure that you have a rich, flavorful sauce ready to go, enhancing your turkey and mashed potatoes without the last-minute stress.
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce
Sweet and tart, this instant pot cranberry sauce is an easy, make-ahead side that complements your turkey beautifully. With its bright color and flavor, it adds a festive touch to your holiday spread and can be made in minutes.
Thanksgiving Corn Recipe
This Thanksgiving corn recipe is a delicious side dish that brings a touch of sweetness and warmth to your table. It can be prepped ahead of time, allowing you to focus on other dishes while still serving up something special.
Easy Pumpkin Risotto
Creamy and comforting, this easy pumpkin Risotto is a unique twist on a classic dish. It can be made ahead and simply warmed up, providing a flavorful side that showcases seasonal ingredients beautifully.
Broccoli Cheese Casserole
This broccoli cheese casserole is a delicious way to sneak in some veggies during the feast. Made ahead of time, itโs an easy-to-heat dish that adds a creamy, cheesy element to your Thanksgiving spread.
Instant Pot Stuffing
This instant pot stuffing is flavorful and incredibly easy to prepare in advance. Packed with herbs and savory ingredients, it will complement your turkey perfectly, ensuring you have a stress-free cooking experience on the big day.
Easy Make-Ahead Sausage Stuffing
This easy make-ahead sausage stuffing is rich in flavor and perfect for those who love a heartier stuffing. Prepare it ahead of time, and simply reheat before serving to enjoy its savory goodness alongside your holiday meal.
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Meet Corinne
Hi! Iโm Corinne, a busy mom of four and the creator of Wondermom Wannabe. Iโve spent years helping moms like you simplify life with quick meal solutions and easy family tips. Wondermom Wannabe started as a place to share practical tips for home and family life, and itโs grown into a resource where you can find inspiration to make every day a little easier. Learn more about me here.