Welcome to the ultimate guide if you want the most relaxed Thanksgiving dinner ever. If you’re expecting a large crowd or a small gathering, these 33 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Dishes can help.
Whether it be preparing mashed potatoes beforehand or cooking gravy without the panicking last few minutes, these recipes will make your life easier. Have more fun and less hassle holiday prep now!
Jump to:
- 1. Juniper-and-Gin Gravlax
- 2. Green Bean Casserole
- 3. Sweet Potato Cheesecake with Marshmallow Meringue
- 4. Pecan Pie Shortbread Bars
- 5. Cranberry Sauce
- 6. Boozy Apple Cider Slushie
- 7. Coconut Cheesecake
- 8. Frozen Pumpkin Dessert
- 9. Creamed Brussels Sprouts
- 10. Duchess Baked Potatoes
- 11. Minty Moscow Mule Punch
- 12. Perfect Sausage Stuffing
- 13. Chocolate Gingersnaps
- 14. Dry Brine Turkey
- 15. 3-Ingredient Sweet Potato Casserole With Maple Pecans
- 16. Bacon-Wrapped Apricots With Sage
- 17. Sacher Torte
- 18. Lattice-Topped Pear Slab Pie
- 19. Butternut Squash Soup
- 20. Mashed Potatoes
- 21. Chimichurri Yogurt Dip
- 22. Chunky Guacamole
- 23. Mini Apple Caramel Pies
- 24. Turkey Cheese Balls
- 25. Cider, Bacon, and Golden Raisin Stuffing
- 26. Chickpea and Mint Crostini
- 27. Angel Food Cake
- 28. Sweet Potato Salad
- 29. Cornbread Dressing
- 30. Juniper-Brined Roast Turkey with Chanterelle Mushroom Gravy
- 31. Pink Hummus
- 32. Farro Salad
- 33. Pecan-Orange Baklava Pie
- Recipe
1. Juniper-and-Gin Gravlax
Gravlax adds a touch of elegance to any occasion, and making it at home elevates your Thanksgiving snack platters to the next level.
Infused with delicate floral notes from gin and juniper berries, this recipe delivers a unique flavor. Since the salmon needs three days to cure, it's an ideal make-ahead appetizer for your holiday spread.
2. Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole is a beloved classic that takes center stage at holiday gatherings, and for good reason! The wonderful thing about this dish is its versatility. It starts with a creamy white sauce, which serves as a perfect base that can be adapted in countless delicious ways.
Whether you’re adding crispy bacon, a blend of cheeses like pepper jack or white cheddar, or throwing in some sautéed mushrooms and a hint of mustard for an extra kick, this casserole is sure to please every palate.
3. Sweet Potato Cheesecake with Marshmallow Meringue
This meringue cake is a rich and decadent dessert perfect for Thanksgiving. The creamy, spiced sweet potato cheesecake can be made ahead, while the fluffy marshmallow meringue is easy to add before serving. This show-stopping dessert saves you time on the big day and brings a unique twist to traditional holiday flavors.
4. Pecan Pie Shortbread Bars
Why choose between pecan pie and shortbread when you can have both? Pecan Pie Shortbread Bars combine the buttery crunch of shortbread with the sweet, nutty topping of a classic pecan pie.
These bars are a fantastic make-ahead option; Just bake them in advance, and they’ll hold up perfectly for days. Slice and serve for a delightful, stress-free dessert.
5. Cranberry Sauce
This homemade cranberry sauce is as simple as the canned version but much more flavorful. It’s one of those Thanksgiving dishes you can easily make up to a week ahead, giving you more time on the big day. Plus, the extra fridge time allows the flavors to deepen and blend, making it even better when served!
6. Boozy Apple Cider Slushie
Serve this fall-flavored slushie to kick off the party or as a refreshing nightcap after a day of feasting. Prepare the boozy granita a day or two in advance and store it in the freezer. When it’s time to serve, scoop it into cocktail glasses, top with dry hard cider, and garnish with fresh apple slices for a festive touch.
7. Coconut Cheesecake
Coconut Cheesecake is a tropical twist on the classic dessert. The creamy coconut-infused filling pairs beautifully with a buttery crust, creating a rich and indulgent treat. Make it a day or two in advance, and it will taste even better as the flavors meld. A simple yet elegant dessert that’s sure to impress your guests!
8. Frozen Pumpkin Dessert
Frozen Pumpkin Dessert is a delightful alternative to traditional pumpkin pie, and the best part is it can be made weeks in advance. Creamy and full of pumpkin spice flavor, this dessert will surely please a crowd.
Simply prepare, freeze, and serve when ready. It’s a refreshing twist for those looking to lighten their Thanksgiving spread!
9. Creamed Brussels Sprouts
Creamed Brussels Sprouts get the traditional Thanksgiving makeover with plenty of butter, cream, and cheese. To make this dish ahead, simply assemble everything in your baking dish, cover it, and store it in the fridge for up to two days.
When you're ready to serve, pop it in the oven until it's bubbly and lightly golden. This make-ahead side is both convenient and delicious, adding a rich touch to your holiday meal.
10. Duchess Baked Potatoes
Duchess Baked Potatoes are the perfect answer to prepping mashed potatoes in advance. With a texture similar to twice-baked potatoes, this dish can be assembled a day ahead.
Simply cover and chill overnight, then pop it in the oven with an extra 5–10 minutes of baking time. It’s a creamy, elegant side that’s both convenient and delicious for Thanksgiving!
11. Minty Moscow Mule Punch
This large-batch version of a classic cocktail is ideal for serving a Thanksgiving crowd. Mix vodka, lime juice, and simple syrup in a pitcher or punch bowl, then cover and chill overnight for easy prep. When it’s time to serve, just add ginger beer, pour into glasses, and garnish with a fresh sprig of mint for a refreshing holiday drink.
12. Perfect Sausage Stuffing
This sausage stuffing recipe is a holiday favorite! Packed with hearty sausage, apple, sage, and onion, it’s bursting with savory flavors. Dried cranberries add a touch of sweetness, though they’re optional.
The best part? You can make it ahead of time and freeze it, making it a stress-free option for those busy mornings leading up to the holidays. Just thaw, bake, and enjoy!
13. Chocolate Gingersnaps
Chocolate Gingersnaps bring a fun and unexpected twist to your holiday baking. The blend of rich chocolate and bold ginger creates a cookie that’s both comforting and full of flavor.
You can bake them in advance and stay fresh for days. Perfect for making ahead, these cookies add a touch of warmth and sweetness to any holiday spread!
14. Dry Brine Turkey
This recipe of dry brine turkey is the secret to a juicy, flavorful bird that won’t dry out in the oven. By brining the turkey for at least 48 hours, the seasoning has time to fully infuse into the meat. Start as early as the Monday before Thanksgiving, and you’ll be rewarded with a tender, perfectly seasoned turkey ready to impress on the big day!
15. 3-Ingredient Sweet Potato Casserole With Maple Pecans
This Sweet Potato Casserole is easy to prepare. Assemble the sweet potato base up to two days ahead and refrigerate. The candied pecans can also be prepped in advance and stored at room temperature in an airtight container. When ready to serve, simply top with the pecans and bake for a hassle-free, delicious side dish.
16. Bacon-Wrapped Apricots With Sage
These fruity little bites are perfect for keeping guests satisfied while you finish dinner. You can assemble them up to three days in advance and freeze them. When guests arrive, simply pop them in the oven, and they’ll be ready to enjoy—ideal for taming hungry appetites before the main feast!
17. Sacher Torte
You’re going to love this Sacher Torte recipe! It features two layers of rich chocolate sponge cake filled with sweet apricot jam and topped with a glossy chocolate glaze.
Make this classic Austrian dessert a day in advance and serve it with a side of whipped cream, making it a decadent treat that will impress any gathering.
18. Lattice-Topped Pear Slab Pie
Lattice-topped pear Slab Pie is a beautiful holiday dessert featuring fresh pears and candied fruit beneath a golden, woven crust. The lattice top adds a rustic touch to this flavorful pie, making it perfect for festive gatherings.
You can prepare it in advance and bake it on the big day, making it an ideal addition to your make-ahead Thanksgiving spread. Serve with a dollop of whipped cream for an extra indulgent finish!
19. Butternut Squash Soup
This is the ultimate comfort food for fall, with its sweet, earthy flavor from the squash, making it a seasonal favorite. The creaminess from blended potatoes and the fragrant herbs elevate this cozy dish.
It’s a perfect addition to your Thanksgiving menu, especially since it can be prepared ahead of time, saving you from last-minute stress.
20. Mashed Potatoes
This version of the perfect mashed potatoes is light and fluffy, yet rich and creamy, with just a hint of garlic and thyme for added flavor. You can make them up to 2 hours in advance and store them at room temperature or chill them for up to 8 hours.
When ready, reheat with the reserved milk mixture over medium heat. And, of course, top them off with plenty of butter for that final touch!
21. Chimichurri Yogurt Dip
Make this homemade chimichurri, a vibrant Argentinian herb-and-oil sauce, a day ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. About 15 minutes before serving, stir it into Greek yogurt to create a creamy, flavorful dip that pairs beautifully with almost anything. This make-ahead dip is a simple way to add flavor to your holiday spread!
22. Chunky Guacamole
This recipe is quick and easy to make from scratch! Its creamy yet chunky texture makes it irresistible and perfect for pairing with tacos, nachos, Doritos, Tostitos, beef burritos, or grilled cheese.
All you need are 6 simple ingredients. You can prepare it beforehand, making it an ideal addition to your make-ahead Thanksgiving appetizers!
23. Mini Apple Caramel Pies
Mini Apple Caramel Pies bring the perfect blend of sweet apples and gooey caramel, all tucked into a flaky crust. These bite-sized desserts are not only delicious but also convenient.
Prep them in advance, and simply pop them in the oven before serving for a warm, freshly baked treat. A crowd-pleaser that's sure to shine on your Thanksgiving dessert table!
24. Turkey Cheese Balls
The Turkey Cheese Ball is as adorable as it is delicious! Crafted to resemble a turkey using carrots, pecans, pretzels, and bell peppers, it’s a fun centerpiece for any Thanksgiving spread.
You can prepare the cheese ball in advance, leaving only the decorations and dippers for the day of serving. It’s a playful, tasty appetizer that adds charm to your holiday table!
25. Cider, Bacon, and Golden Raisin Stuffing
It is a savory-sweet combination that’s hard to resist. With two types of bread for depth, vinegar-soaked raisins for a sweet-tart kick, and bacon for extra richness, this stuffing is packed with flavor.
You can prepare the mixture up to the step before adding eggs a day ahead, then cover and chill, making it a perfect make-ahead Thanksgiving dish!
26. Chickpea and Mint Crostini
This crostini starter is sure to be a hit with your holiday guests! Toast the baguette slices and prepare the topping ingredients a day or two in advance, keeping everything refrigerated. When it's time to serve, simply set out the toasted bread and toppings separately, allowing guests to assemble their own crostini.
27. Angel Food Cake
Angel Food Cake is a dessert that never goes out of style. Its light, airy texture, and subtle sweetness make it the perfect complement to a rich holiday meal. You can easily prepare it in advance and stay fresh without losing its fluffiness.
Serve it plain, with berries, or topped with whipped cream—either way, it’s a timeless crowd-pleaser that fits effortlessly into your make-ahead Thanksgiving menu.
28. Sweet Potato Salad
This salad is a fresh, vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving table. The earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with tangy feta, dried cranberries, and crisp red onions.
Whether served warm or cold, it’s a versatile dish that you can easily prepare in advance. A perfect way to lighten up the holiday spread, with flavors that only get better as they sit!
29. Cornbread Dressing
It is a comforting and classic side for your Thanksgiving feast. While homemade cornbread is ideal, boxed mix or store-bought works just as well.
You can quickly assemble the dressing up to 24 hours before, allowing the flavors to meld. On the day of, let it rest at room temperature while the oven preheats, then bake it to golden perfection for a stress-free addition to your meal.
30. Juniper-Brined Roast Turkey with Chanterelle Mushroom Gravy
This roasted turkey is a show-stopping centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table. The juniper brine infuses the turkey with a delicate, woodsy flavor, keeping the meat moist and flavorful.
This dish is paired with a rich chanterelle mushroom gravy, which elevates the traditional roast turkey experience. Prepare the brine and turkey beforehand, allowing you to focus on perfecting the gravy on the big day for an unforgettable feast.
31. Pink Hummus
This stunning hummus, with its vibrant color courtesy of cooked beets, is a healthy and eye-catching addition to any spread. You can easily prepare it up to a week in advance and keep it refrigerated until serving. Its earthy, slightly sweet flavor makes it a unique twist on traditional hummus, perfect for brightening your holiday table!
32. Farro Salad
This salad perfectly blends textures and flavors, featuring pecans, Parmesan, green apples, and peppery arugula. It’s hearty and holds up beautifully, making it an ideal make-ahead option for any gathering.
This salad is a crowd-pleaser with sweet, salty, soft, and crunchy elements. You can easily customize it with your favorite mix-ins to suit your taste!
33. Pecan-Orange Baklava Pie
This recipe is a flavorful twist on a classic Thanksgiving dessert. Layers of flaky pastry are filled with pecans and a fragrant touch of orange zest, while a bourbon-honey syrup adds a rich, indulgent sweetness. This unique pie offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, making it a standout addition to your holiday spread.
Recipe
33 Make Ahead Thanksgiving Dishes
Notes
- 1. Green Bean Casserole
- 2. Juniper & Gin Gravlax
- 3. Sweet Potato Cheesecake with Marshmallow Meringue
- 4. Pecan Pie Shortbread Bars
- 5. Cranberry Sauce
- 6. Boozy Apple Cider Slushie
- 7. Coconut Cheesecake
- 8. Frozen Pumpkin Dessert
- 9. Creamed Brussels Sprouts
- 10. Duchess Baked Potatoes
- 11. Minty Moscow Mule Punch
- 12. Perfect Sausage Stuffing
- 13. Chocolate Gingersnaps
- 14. Dry Brine Turkey
- 15. 3-Ingredient Sweet Potato Casserole With Maple Pecans
- 16. Bacon-Wrapped Apricots With Sage
- 17. Sacher Torte
- 18. Lattice-Topped Pear Slab Pie
- 19. Butternut Squash Soup
- 20. Mashed Potatoes
- 21. Chimichurri Yogurt Dip
- 22. Chunky Guacamole
- 23. Mini Apple Caramel Pies
- 24. Turkey Cheese Balls
- 25. Cider, Bacon, and Golden Raisin Stuffing
- 26. Chickpea and Mint Crostini
- 27. Angel Food Cake
- 28. Sweet Potato Salad
- 29. Cornbread Dressing
- 30. Juniper-Brined Roast Turkey with Chanterelle Mushroom Gravy
- 31. Pink Hummus
- 32. Farro Salad
- 33. Pecan-Orange Baklava Pie
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