Everyday Cooking

Everyday Cooking

The Pioneer Woman's Best Make-Ahead Dinners

Updated on October 10, 2018 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. A fabulous feast that’s already been prepared — what’s better than that?

  • Baked Ziti
     
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    Baked Ziti

    <p>The taste of Italy comes alive in this gooey baked pasta dish. “I like baked ziti to be almost like lasagna that forgot to use lasagna noodles,” quips Ree. Messy. Decadent. <em>Ridiculous</em>. In every good sense of the word.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/baked-ziti/19122/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Baked Ziti</strong></a></p>
  • Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
     
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    Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-chicken-cordon-bleu-casserole/18532/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole</strong></a></p>
  • The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cacciatore
     
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    The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cacciatore

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-chicken-cacciatore/15527/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Cacciatore</a></strong></p>
  • The Pioneer Woman’s Pulled Pork
     
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    The Pioneer Woman’s Pulled Pork

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

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

    <p>Italian sausage, mushrooms and fresh bell peppers bring all the flavours of your favourite pizza 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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/supreme-pizza-lasagna/21554/">The Pioneer Woman’s Supreme Pizza Lasagna</a></strong>
  • Brisket Tostadas
     
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    Brisket Tostadas

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/brisket-tostadas/15517/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Brisket Tostadas</strong></a></p>
  • Burgundy Beef Stew
     
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    Burgundy Beef Stew

    <p>Ree puts a <em>Pioneer Woman</em> spin on an iconic French classic, a rich and hearty stew that’s bursting with bacon, chuck roast, vegetables, herbs, mushrooms and Burgundy wine. <em>C’est délicieux!</em></p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/burgundy-beef-stew/19589/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Burgundy Beef Stew</strong></a></p>
  • French Onion Soup
     
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    French Onion Soup

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

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

    <p>Casseroles are a natural 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 a guaranteed crowd pleaser.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/leek-and-potato-casserole/20071/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Leek and Potato Casserole</strong></a></p>
  • Mashed Potatoes Two Ways
     
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    Mashed Potatoes Two Ways

    <p>Mashed potatoes 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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mashed-potatoes-two-ways/17571/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Mashed Potatoes Two Ways</strong></a></p>
  • Mexican Macaroni Salad
     
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    Mexican Macaroni Salad

    <p>“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.”</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mexican-macaroni-salad/15568/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Mexican Macaroni Salad</strong></a></p>
  • Mini Meatball Pasta Bake
     
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    Mini Meatball Pasta Bake

    <p>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,” she says. “It’s delicious!”</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/mini-meatball-pasta-bake/20523/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Mini Meatball Pasta Bake</strong></a></p>
  • The Pioneer Woman's Calzones
     
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    The Pioneer Woman's Calzones

    <p>These aren't your typical out-of-the-box calzones. Homemade dough is stuffed with either a savoury mushroom filling oozing with mozzarella and goat cheese, or a meaty filling of Italian sausage, pepperoni, Canadian bacon, marina sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/the-pioneer-womans-calzones/22089/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Calzones</strong></a></p>
  • Potluck Meatballs
     
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    Potluck Meatballs

    <p>These hearty meatballs in a thick, zesty sauce are the perfect main course that can be made ahead of time and reheated in a jiffy.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/potluck-meatballs/15525/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Potluck Meatballs</strong></a></p>
  • Chicken Tortilla Casserole
     
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    Chicken Tortilla Casserole

    <p>A twist on two classics - Mexican inspired lasagna! Layers of cheese, salsa verde, rice, corn and beans and juicy chicken breast come together to make a comforting make-ahead dish.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tortilla-casserole/17686/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman’s Chicken Tortilla Casserole</strong></a></p>
  • Slow Cooker Baked Beans
     
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    Slow Cooker Baked Beans

    <p>A slow cooker is an essential piece of kitchen equipment when it comes to mastering make-ahead meals and Ree’s recipe for sweet-and-savoury baked beans make the ultimate summertime barbecue side dish or comfort-food favourite in the colder months.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-baked-beans/20516/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Slow Cooker Baked Beans</strong></a></p>
  • Tamale Pie
     
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    Tamale Pie

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/tamale-pie-/18531/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Tamale Pie</strong></a></p>
  • Twice Baked Potato Casserole
     
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    Twice Baked Potato Casserole

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/twice-baked-potato-casserole/15582/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Twice-Baked Potato Casserole</strong></a></p>
  • Sweet and Sour Meatballs
     
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    Sweet and Sour Meatballs

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-and-sour-meatballs/16498/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Sweet and Sour Meatballs</strong></a></p>
  • The Pioneer Woman's Italian Meatloaf
     
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    The Pioneer Woman's Italian Meatloaf

    <p>This Pioneer Woman meatloaf recipe takes ground beef and combines it with Parmesan, crusty bread, and Italian seasonings. What really sets it apart is thin slices of slightly salty pancetta laid over the top.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/italian-meatloaf/21227/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Italian Meatloaf</a></strong></p>
  • Spicy Pulled Pork Sliders
     
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    Spicy Pulled Pork Sliders

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spicy-pulled-pork-sliders/20529/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Spicy Pulled Pork Sliders</a></strong></p>
  • Chipotle Chicken Chili
     
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    Chipotle Chicken Chili

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/chipotle-chicken-chili/19125/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Chipotle Chicken Chili</a></strong></p>
  • Bacon with Bean Soup
     
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    Bacon with Bean Soup

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

    <p>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!</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-fennel-bake/18449/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Chicken Fennel Bake</strong></a></p>
  • Cheesy Sausage Rigatoni
     
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    Cheesy Sausage Rigatoni

    <p>This satisfying rigatoni recipe features Italian sausage and fresh mozzarella for an easy and delicious weeknight meal.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cheesy-sausage-rigatoni/16643/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Cheesy Sausage Rigatoni</strong></a></p>
  • Escalloped Cabbage Casserole
     
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    Escalloped Cabbage Casserole

    <p>Scalloped cabbage is covered in a cheesy sauce, and baked until golden and bubbly in this hearty dish that can be served as a side or vegetarian main. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/escalloped-cabbage-casserole/17692/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman’s Escalloped Cabbage Casserole</a></strong></p>
  • Turkey Tetrazzini
     
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    Turkey Tetrazzini

    <p>If you've got leftover turkey or chicken on hand, make the most of it with this yummy casserole dish featuring mushrooms, cheese, spaghetti and bacon, with a crisp breadcrumb crust.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/ree-drummonds-turkey-tetrazzini/17095/" target="_blank"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Turkey Tetrazzini</strong></a></p>
  • Texas Braised Brisket
     
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    Texas Braised Brisket

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/texas-braised-brisket-/21320/">The Pioneer Woman’s Texas Braised Brisket</a></strong>
  • Perfect Pot Roast
     
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    Perfect Pot Roast

    <p>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.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/perfect-pot-roast/20839/">The Pioneer Woman’s Perfect Pot Roast</a></strong>
  • Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey
     
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    Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey

    <p>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 Thanksgiving dinner, and roast for an additional hour before serving.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/the-pioneer-woman/recipe/make-ahead-thanksgiving-turkey/22001/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey</a></strong></p>
  • King Ranch Chicken
     
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    King Ranch Chicken

    <p>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 it, pop it in the oven until golden and bubbly, and pair with a simple green salad.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/king-ranch-chicken-/22013/" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's King Ranch Chicken</a></strong></p>
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