The Pioneer Woman's Best Make-Ahead Dinners

Last updated on October 11, 2019 by Food Network Canada Editors

Ree Drummond is a huge fan of make-ahead meals, and we are too! But not just any recipe will do. Luckily, we've got the best of the best from The Pioneer Woman that will help you get dinner on the table in a flash. A fabulous feast that’s already been prepared — what’s better than that?

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Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper

 On those hectic weeknights, there's nothing better than whipping up a scrumptious one-pot meal in 16 minutes flat. Ree Drummond has you covered with yet another classic, hearty dish. This sautéed chicken skillet features zucchini, squash, kale, tomatoes, corn and fresh Parm for an ultra-satisfying supper that even the pickiest of eaters will gobble up. For even more variety, you can try <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/one-pot-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's one-pot recipes that will make dinner a breeze</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pesto-chicken-skillet-supper/22786/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Pesto Chicken Skillet Supper</a>
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16 Min-estrone

 It shouldn't have to take an entire afternoon to make a classic vegetable soup. With this Italian-inspired recipe, Ree Drummond helps you have dinner on the table in just 16 minutes. (Yes, really!) For even more lip-smackingly delicious flavour, top it all off with freshly grated Parmesan or a dash of jarred pesto for good measure. For more quick and easy meals, try <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/ree-drummond-the-pioneer-woman-quick-dinners-under-16-minutes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's best 16-minute dinners</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/16-min-estrone/22851/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's 16 Min-estrone</a>
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Chicken a la Chuck

 If you're hosting a large gathering, you can't go wrong with a batch of homemade crispy chicken drumsticks. Skip the takeout menu and toss these bad boys in a tangy mixture perfected by Ree herself. To save yourself additional time, prep them the night before and let the flavours marinate overnight in the fridge for optimal taste. If you've got a picky eater on your hands, try one of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/pioneer-woman-easiest-dinner-ideas-for-kids/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's easy dinner ideas for kids</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/chicken-a-la-chuck/22002/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken a la Chuck</a>
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Cauliflower "Mac" and Cheese

 This baked casserole is so cheesy and decadent that you'll hardly notice that the macaroni has been replaced with cauliflower florets. The best part? Ree uses a mouthwatering combo of Parmesan, goat cheese and Pepper Jack so it's creamy with just the right amount of heat. Make it the night before company arrives and simply warm it up before serving. For more ooey-gooey comfort food inspiration, try <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/pioneer-woman-cheesiest-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's cheesiest recipes</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/cauliflower-mac-and-cheese/22029/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Cauliflower "Mac" and Cheese</a>
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Italian Chicken Sheet Pan Supper

 Once you realize how easy sheet pan meals are to make, you'll come back to them time and again. This hearty dish combines juicy chicken thighs, crunchy green beans, sweet cherry tomatoes and chunks of crusty bread for a make-ahead meal (with leftovers!) that you'll be excited to dig into. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/italian-chicken-sheet-pan-supper/21901/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Italian Chicken Sheet Pan Supper</a>
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Monster Meatballs

 What exactly makes these uber meatballs tough to top? Chalk it up to the perfect combo of ground turkey and sausage mixed in with grated Parm, fresh parsley and your favourite store-bought marinara. Tender, moist and perfect on their own or with pasta, this dish will become an instant family favourite. Make extra and store in your freezer for easy re-heatable meals on busy weeknights. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/monster-meatballs/22605/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Monster Meatballs</a>
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White Chicken Enchiladas

 This creamy Tex-Mex classic will become a household staple after one go-around — yes, it's that good. Whip this up the night before hosting guests, allowing flavours to come together before re-heating, or simply make in advance and store in the freezer for a quick and easy weeknight meal option. If you're looking to bring even more heat into the kitchen, you can also try <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/pioneer-woman-best-tex-mex/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's best Tex-Mex recipes</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/white-chicken-enchiladas/22635/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's White Chicken Enchiladas</a>
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Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

 Be honest: it probably never occurred to you to turn chicken cordon bleu into a delicious casserole that’s a meal unto itself. Luckily for us, the Pioneer Woman had the idea and the result is this spectacular spin on an old classic that turns up the heat with a bit of cayenne. Use leftover cooked chicken to make this casserole even easier. Find more of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/ree-drummond-must-try-casserole-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's must-try casseroles recipes</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-chicken-cordon-bleu-casserole/18532/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole</a>
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Perfect Pot Roast

 A wintery one-pot dinner that you can set and forget on Sunday afternoon. You’ll know its done when you home is filled with the scent of perfectly tender beef simmering in wine, fresh thyme and rosemary. Serve pulled or slice and enjoy night-after-night as a tasty main, sandwiches and more. For more, try some of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/photos/one-pot-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's one-pot recipes that will make dinner a breeze</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/perfect-pot-roast/20839/">The Pioneer Woman’s Perfect Pot Roast</a>
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Baked Ziti

 The taste of Italy comes alive in this gooey baked pasta dish. “I like baked ziti to be almost like <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-slow-cooker-lasagna/22142/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">lasagna</a> that forgot to use lasagna noodles,” quips Ree. Messy. Decadent. Ridiculous. In every good sense of the word. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-ziti/19122/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Baked Ziti</a>
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Burgundy Beef Stew

 Ree puts a Pioneer Woman spin on an iconic French classic, a rich and hearty stew that’s bursting with bacon, chuck roast, vegetables, herbs, mushrooms and Burgundy wine. C’est délicieux! For more, try <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/pioneer-woman-best-soup-stew-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's best soups and stews</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/burgundy-beef-stew/19589/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Burgundy Beef Stew</a>
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The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cacciatore

 Ree Drummond's take on the Cacciatore, or "hunter-style" chicken, uses skin-on thighs, onions, herbs and tomatoes. Place the cooked chicken and vegetables on a bed of cooked pasta, and serve it family style in a large bowl or platter. For more inspiration, check out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/pioneer-woman-best-pasta-recipes-ever/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's best pasta recipes ever</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-chicken-cacciatore/15527/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cacciatore</a>
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Pulled Pork Sandwiches

 If anyone knows how to feed a hungry crowd, it’s Ree Drummond. So take a cue from The Pioneer Woman herself and try this sweet and spicy recipe that, after an afternoon in the oven, will literally melt in your mouth. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-pulled-pork/19994/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman’s Pulled Pork Sandwiches</a>
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Brie and Broccoli Quiche

 A rich, flavourful <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cowgirl-quiche/15629/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">quiche</a> is an ideal dish to make ahead of time and reheat later. Ree’s inventive version uses thick slices of chopped Brie – instead of typical Gouda or Cheddar – which delivers a velvety smooth texture that’s tough to beat. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ree-drummonds-brie-and-broccoli-quiche/19640/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Brie and Broccoli Quiche</a>
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Supreme Pizza Lasagna

 Italian sausage, mushrooms and fresh bell peppers bring all the flavours of your favourite <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slice-of-pizza/22602/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pizza</a> order to your kitchen in a comforting, cheesy pasta bake. Prep in advance and bake when you get home or freeze and bake at a later date. We've got more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/make-ahead-meals-freezer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy freezer meals you can make now and devour later</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/supreme-pizza-lasagna/21554/">The Pioneer Woman’s Supreme Pizza Lasagna</a>
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Brisket Tostadas

 Slow-cooked, melt-in-your-mouth brisket is the star of these crunchy beef tostadas. Cook the brisket ahead of time and reheat to create easy-to-assemble tostadas for a Mexican-style meal that kids will adore. The brisket can be stored in the fridge for up to two days, or freeze for later use. For similar dinner inspiration, try one of these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/easy-taco-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">tasty taco recipes you'll crave every day of the week</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/brisket-tostadas/15517/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Brisket Tostadas</a>
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French Onion Soup

 French onion soup is the perfect dish to make ahead of time; simply heat up the ready-made soup, top with cheese and croutons and prepare for a fabulously elegant meal that can be enjoyed in no time at all. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-french-onion-soup/15658/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's French Onion Soup</a>
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Chunky Beef Chili

 This hearty <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/10-best-chili-recipes-to-feed-a-crowd/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">chili</a> is thickened with masa, a ground corn flour, making a tasty, stick to your ribs stew that is guaranteed to feed a crowd. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/chunky-beef-chili/21165/">The Pioneer Woman’s Chunky Beef Chili</a>
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Leek and Potato Casserole

Casseroles are a natural fit when it comes to dinners that can be prepared ahead of time. And this savoury sensation — flavoured with leeks and topped with Fontina cheese — is guaranteed to please. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/leek-and-potato-casserole/20071/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Leek and Potato Casserole</a>
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Mashed Potatoes, Two Ways

 <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-creamy-mashed-potatoes/15602/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Mashed potatoes</a> are a favourite side dish on most dinner tables, and Ree serves up a pair of recipes demonstrating how easy it is to whip up a flavourful batch of creamy potatoes ahead of time. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mashed-potatoes-two-ways/17571/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Mashed Potatoes, Two Ways</a>
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Mexican Macaroni Salad

 “I’ve made this simple pasta salad for years and years, and have always loved the heck out of it,” says Ree of this make-ahead favourite. “It’s zippy, flavourful and fun, and is as delicious by itself as it is alongside grilled chicken, shrimp or steaks.” Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mexican-macaroni-salad/15568/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Mexican Macaroni Salad</a>
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Mini Meatball Pasta Bake

 Ree Drummond describes this baked pasta dish with miniature meatballs and big hunks of mozzarella as “super simple, super hearty and exceedingly family friendly.” Baking it in the oven makes “the heavens open up. It’s delicious!” Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mini-meatball-pasta-bake/20523/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Mini Meatball Pasta Bake</a>
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Potluck Meatballs

 These hearty <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/mouth-watering-meatball-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">meatballs</a> in a thick, zesty sauce are the perfect main course that can be made ahead of time and reheated in a jiffy. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/potluck-meatballs/15525/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Potluck Meatballs</a>
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Tamale Pie

 This make-ahead Tex-Mex dish is a meal unto itself, with corn, ground beef, tomatoes, poblano peppers, veggies and kidney beans baked into a savoury crust made from corn flour. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tamale-pie-/18531/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Tamale Pie</a>
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Twice-Baked Potato Casserole

 You can thank the enduring awesomeness of bacon and a mixture of cheddar and jack cheese (if you’re feeling adventurous) for the intensely delicious flavour of this casserole that’s the ideal make-ahead side dish. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/twice-baked-potato-casserole/15582/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Twice-Baked Potato Casserole</a>
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Sweet and Sour Meatballs

 Similar to sweet and sour chicken or pork, these tender meatballs are covered in a tangy sauce laced with diced pineapple, served over a bed of rice and topped with scallions. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-and-sour-meatballs/16498/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Sweet and Sour Meatballs</a>
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Spicy Pulled Pork Sliders

 Variety is the spice of life and these two-bite sammies are any but ordinary. Pork shoulder is cooked slow and low with savoury spices and jalapeno peppers then paired with crunchy rainbow slaw for the ultimate combo of sweet, salty, crunchy and tender in every bite. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-pulled-pork-sliders/20529/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman’s Spicy Pulled Pork Sliders</a>
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Chipotle Chicken Chili

 Transport your taste buds to the Southwest with this flavourful chili recipe. For cost-savings and added flavour, make with boneless skinless chicken thighs, instead of chicken breast. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/chipotle-chicken-chili/19125/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman’s Chipotle Chicken Chili</a>
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Bacon with Bean Soup

 Chock-full of hearty ingredients like white beans, thick-cut bacon, carrots, celery and tomatoes, this warming soup is sure to satisfy. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/bean-with-bacon-soup/18530/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Bacon with Bean Soup</a>
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Chicken Fennel Bake

 Featuring chicken thighs, potatoes, carrots and fennel, this home-cooked meal takes over an hour to cook so that all the delicious flavours meld together. Trust us, it's worth the wait! Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-fennel-bake/18449/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Fennel Bake</a>
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Cheesy Sausage Rigatoni

 This satisfying rigatoni recipe features Italian sausage and fresh mozzarella for an easy and delicious weeknight meal. Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cheesy-sausage-rigatoni/16643/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Cheesy Sausage Rigatoni</a>
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Texas Braised Brisket

 Slow cook a batch of enchilada-style brisket on Sunday afternoon for a hand-off weekend dinner that can be repurposed as leftovers throughout the week. Serve as tacos or make into a enchilada pie for a meal you can eat again and again. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/texas-braised-brisket-/21320/">The Pioneer Woman’s Texas Braised Brisket</a>
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King Ranch Chicken

 Take some time out of your weekend to assemble this cheesy chicken casserole, and then freeze it for a head start on a weeknight dinner. When you're ready to serve, pop it in the oven until golden and bubbly and pair with a simple green salad. Find out <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/blog/how-to-prep-slow-cooker-freezer-meals-for-busy-nights/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">how to prep slow cooker freezer meals to help you get through the week</a>. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/king-ranch-chicken-/22013/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's King Ranch Chicken</a>
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Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey

 Spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones with this turkey hack from Ree Drummond. Have your butcher cut the turkey into six large sections, which speeds up the roasting time. Prepare it the day before your <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/make-ahead-thanksgiving-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Thanksgiving dinner</a> or any social gathering, and roast for an additional hour before serving. Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/make-ahead-thanksgiving-turkey/22001/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman's Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey</a>
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