Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving

30 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes, From Turkey to Stuffing

Posted by Jenny Potter. Last updated on September 26, 2019 by Laura Grande

Thanksgiving can be a blur. With so many dishes to be made and served at once, it can be hard to keep all the cooking timed perfectly. Take the pressure off the big day with make-ahead Thanksgiving sides, desserts, potatoes and pies. Simply heat and serve!

  • Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey
     
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    Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey

    <p> The holiday season tends to fly by, so enjoy every moment by making the turkey the day before. On the big day, simply let the turkey come to room temperature while you preheat the oven. Drizzle chicken broth over the bird, cover again with foil and roast for as little as one hour. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/tips-how-to-roast-turkey-cooking-temperature/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">turkey cooking tips to roast the perfect bird every time</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-thanksgiving-turkey/22001/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Turkey</a></strong> </p>
  • Colourful Roasted Vegetables and Garlic Quinoa
     
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    Colourful Roasted Vegetables and Garlic Quinoa

    <p> Serve these roasted veggies with a side of garlicky quinoa and grilled chicken seasoned with salt, pepper and Italian seasoning for a meal that you can also pack for lunch after the Thanksgiving long weekend. Find more <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/cozy-fall-comfort-foods/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cozy comfort food recipes to warm you up this fall</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/colourful-roasted-vegetables-and-garlic-quinoa/15099/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Colourful Roasted Vegetables and Garlic Quinoa</a></strong> </p>
  • Sweet Potato Casserole
     
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    Sweet Potato Casserole

    <p> Make this crowd-pleasing holiday favourite in advance. Guests will marvel at the mouth-watering combo of buttery mashed sweet potatoes and a crunchy pecan topping. Check out our <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/in-season/photos/the-ultimate-squash-guide-varieties-and-their-best-uses/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ultimate squash guide, including all their varieties and best uses</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/sweet-potato-casserole/19092/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Sweet Potato Casserole</a></strong> </p>
  • Make-Ahead Creamy Mashed Potatoes
     
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    Make-Ahead Creamy Mashed Potatoes

    <p> Trust us, these Yukon gold potatoes mashed with cream cheese, butter and cream make for one positively delicious side dish that can be made ahead for a stress-free Thanksgiving weekend. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-creamy-mashed-potatoes/22096/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Make-Ahead Creamy Mashed Potatoes</a></strong> </p>
  • Make-Ahead Sausage Stuffing
     
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    Make-Ahead Sausage Stuffing

    <p> Stress less this Thanksgiving by getting your stuffing halfway done beforehand. Simply prepare the bread cubes, sausage and vegetables, then freeze until needed. Once you have all the advance prep in the bag, the rest is a cinch. You can also try out one of these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/make-ahead-meals-freezer/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">easy freezer meals you can make ahead – and devour later</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-sausage-stuffing/22921/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Make-Ahead Sausage Stuffing</a></strong> </p>
  • Make-Ahead Apple Crisp
     
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    Make-Ahead Apple Crisp

    <p> The filling for this time-saving apple crisp is absolutely scrumptious. Whip up this dessert in advance, top it with streusel mixture and freeze until you're ready to serve. On the day of, simply pop the frozen treat into the oven until the filling is bubbly and the crust is a glorious golden-brown. See more of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/our-most-popular-thanksgiving-desserts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our most popular Thanksgiving desserts</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-apple-crisp/20455/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Make-Ahead Apple Crisp</a></strong> </p>
  • Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole with Cauliflower
     
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    Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole with Cauliflower

    <p> Who said turkey was the only bird you could enjoy for Thanksgiving? Change things up with this rich, creamy make-ahead chicken casserole with meaty mushrooms and crisp cauliflower. We guarantee it'll be a holiday staple in your household in no time. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/chicken-tetrazzini-casserole-with-cauliflower/15718/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Chicken Tetrazzini Casserole with Cauliflower</a></strong> </p>
  • Make-Ahead Whipped Sweet Potato
     
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    Make-Ahead Whipped Sweet Potato

    <p> Save time this Thanksgiving by making this easy sweet potato dish in advance before freezing it. Potatoes are roasted and pureed until smooth and creamy and ready to eat. Reheat on the big day, and simply add the tiny finishing touch of chopped pecans and scallions sprinkled on top. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-whipped-sweet-potatoes/22922/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Make-Ahead Whipped Sweet Potato</a></strong> </p>
  • Make-Ahead Roasted Turkey Breast
     
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    Make-Ahead Roasted Turkey Breast

    <p> Roast your bird in advance and freeze it. For the big dinner, simply thaw, slice and reheat with a creamy, herbed butter. Find more main course options with <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/best-thanksgiving-turkey-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">our best Thanksgiving turkey recipes for your fall feast</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-roasted-turkey-breast/22906/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Make-Ahead Roasted Turkey Breast</a></strong> </p>
  • Green Bean Casserole
     
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    Green Bean Casserole

    <p> This quick and colourful <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/30-must-try-casserole-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">casserole</a> side dish will guarantee that you have a stress-free holiday season. Simply pop it into the oven while you prep the rest of your scrumptious meal. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/green-bean-casserole/17111/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Green Bean Casserole</a></strong> </p>
  • Cheese Ball Bites
     
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    Cheese Ball Bites

    <p>This retro appetizer gets a fresh twist when you shape them into bite-sized portions. Roll these paprika-spiced cheese balls in crushed nuts, fresh herbs, seeds or go all out and cover them in bacon bits. Prep the day before your party for simple set-up and serving. For more options, try one of these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/make-ahead-appetizer-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">fantastic make-ahead holiday appetizers</a>. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/blog/these-cheese-ball-bites-are-the-ultimate-make-ahead-appetizer/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Cheese Ball Bites</a></strong></p>
  • Killer Kale Salad
     
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    Killer Kale Salad

    <p>Crispy bacon and crumbled goat cheese are the keys to making this scrumptious salad. Because kale is such a hearty green, it won’t wilt, so it makes for the ultimate make-ahead salad.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/killer-kale-salad/18896/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Pioneer Woman's Killer Kale Salad</a></strong></p>
  • Anna Olson's Pumpkin Pie
     
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    Anna Olson's Pumpkin Pie

    <p>Did you know that using whole wheat dough instead of white makes for a pie crust that browns nicely and stays crisp under the pumpkin filling? Make this pie in advance to save you time and without any worry it’s going to go soggy. Find more of <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/anna-olsons-best-pies/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Anna Olson's best pie recipes</a>. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="//www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/anna-olsons-pumpkin-pie/12429/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Anna Olson's Pumpkin Pie</a></strong></p>
  • Thanksgiving Rolls
     
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    Thanksgiving Rolls

    <p>Make your bread ahead of time to save time and stress on Thanksgiving day. These light and fluffy rolls make an excellent addition to the meal. Find more expert advice on <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/sourdough-bread-recipe/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">bread baking for beginners</a>. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/thanksgiving-rolls/19101//" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Thanksgiving Rolls</strong></a></p>
  • Pumpkin Pie Bars
     
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    Pumpkin Pie Bars

    <p>Don’t waste time with pastry, when you can make a tasty shortbread-based square that will satisfy all your <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/perfect-pumpkin-dessert-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pumpkin pie</a> cravings. Don’t forget the pecan-hazelnut topping, which adds an addictive nutty crunch to each bite.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/blog/these-beautiful-pie-bars-are-the-best-way-to-enjoy-pumpkin-spice-this-fall/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Pumpkin Pie Bars</strong></a></p>
  • Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Pomegranate
     
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    Slow Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Pomegranate

    <p>Set it and forget about it with this slow-cooker recipe that adds the perfect festive touch to your holiday meals. Melt-in-your-mouth <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potatoes </a>are topped with a flavourful combination of lemon, walnuts and pomegranate seeds.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-sweet-potatoes-with-walnuts-and-pomegranate/19354/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Slow-Cooker Sweet Potatoes with Walnuts and Pomegranate</strong></a></p>
  • Brie and Broccoli Quiche
     
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    Brie and Broccoli Quiche

    <p>Wow your <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/all-time-best-vegetarian-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegetarian</a> guests with this Brie and Broccoli Quiche that’s a must-try for cheese lovers. It can be served at room temperature, leaving you counter and oven space to prep the rest of the meal.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/brie-and-broccoli-quiche/19469/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Brie and Broccoli Quiche</strong></a></p>
  • Turkey Sausage and Chestnut Stuffing
     
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    Turkey Sausage and Chestnut Stuffing

    <p>Turkey sausage in a stuffing for turkey? Why not! This colourful recipe from Giada De Laurentiis, made with cornbread, apples, cranberries and chestnuts, takes less than an hour to make.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/raffys-turkey-sausage-and-chestnut-stuffing/17061/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Giada De Laurentiis's Turkey Sausage and Chestnut Stuffing</a></strong></p>
  • Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
     
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    Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

    <p>These scalloped <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/tasty-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">potatoes</a> will ease some stress as they’re a set-and-forget version of everyone's favourite potato dish, which makes them perfect for entertaining.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-scalloped-potatoes/17237/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Ricardo's Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes</strong></a></p>
  • Onion Gravy
     
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    Onion Gravy

    <p>A warm, aromatic gravy is the perfect addition to your Thanksgiving table. This flavourful sauce comes together in just 35 minutes, but tastes like it's been cooking for hours. Whisk in turkey drippings at the last minute before serving for another burst of flavour.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/onion-gravy/14153/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Onion Gravy</strong></a></p>
  • Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Cornbread
     
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    Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Cornbread

    <p>This sweet, buttermilk cornmeal bread bakes away in your <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/best-fall-slow-cooker-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">slow cooker</a> while you prepare the rest of your meal. Once baked, set it to keep warm, so it's hot and ready come dinner time.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-butternut-squash-cornbread/17154/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Slow Cooker Butternut Squash Cornbread</strong></a></p>
  • Charred Onion-Cranberry Relish
     
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    Charred Onion-Cranberry Relish

    <p>This easy, make-ahead sweet relish, flavoured with tart cranberries and the smokiness of charred onions, will brighten up your holiday table and the turkey.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/charred-onion-cranberry-relish/13972/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Lynn Crawford's Charred Onion Cranberry Relish</a></strong></p>
  • Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Nanaimo Bars
     
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    Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Nanaimo Bars

    <p>This classic B.C. dessert gets a fall twist as these Nanaimo Bars are flavoured with pumpkin and cinnamon – perfect for rounding out the Thanksgiving meal. For more Canuck inspiration, check out these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/shows/great-canadian-cookbook/photos/great-canadian-desserts/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">great Canadian desserts</a>. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/dark-chocolate-pumpkin-nanaimo-bars/17178/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Dark Chocolate Pumpkin Nanaimo Bars</strong></a></p>
  • The Pioneer Woman's Cranberry Sauce
     
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    The Pioneer Woman's Cranberry Sauce

    <p>This simple five-ingredient cranberry sauce takes just <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/healthy-dinners-30-minutes-or-less/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">30 minutes</a> to make and can be done in advance of your holiday meal, freeing up valuable stovetop real estate.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/cranberry-sauce/15009/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>The Pioneer Woman's Cranberry Sauce</strong></a></p>
  • Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding
     
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    Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding

    <p>Let your slow cooker do all the work making this sticky, pudding-like cake. Pumpkin pie spice and rich caramel sauce are the perfect flavours to end your Thanksgiving meal. Even better, it's hands-off to let you focus on the main course.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-sticky-toffee-pudding/18957/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Slow Cooker Sticky Toffee Pudding</strong></a></p>
  • Apple Pie Bars
     
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    Apple Pie Bars

    <p> This dessert offers all the goodness of an <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/irresistible-apple-dessert-recipes-for-fall/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">apple</a> pie with half the effort — a great option for a potluck. A combination of Granny Smith and Golden Delicious apples add an irresistible sweet-tartness. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/apple-pie-bars/20537/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Apple Pie Bars</a></strong> </p>
  • Slow-Cooker Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust
     
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    Slow-Cooker Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust

    <p>Free up your oven by placing your spring-form pan inside your slow-cooker for a super-moist dessert. Just be sure to make this recipe a day ahead of serving, you’ll need at least 3 hours of chilling time. While you're at it, try one of these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/life-changing-slow-cooker-dessert-recipes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">15 slow-cooker sweets</a>. </p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-pumpkin-cheesecake-with-gingersnap-crust/20857/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><strong>Slow-Cooker Pumpkin Cheesecake with Gingersnap Crust</strong></a></p>
  • Make-Ahead Deep-Dish Apple Pie
     
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    Make-Ahead Deep-Dish Apple Pie

    <p><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/baking/photos/fall-desserts-double-as-breakfast/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Fall baking</a> is all about sharing, not stressing. Skip the last-minute mess and prep your pie in advance with this genius recipe. The buttery pastry and heady, cinnamon-spiced apple filling are piled high in a deep-dish pie plate for a classic slice of pure comfort food.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-deep-dish-apple-pie/18862/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Make-Ahead Deep Dish Apple Pie</a></strong></p>
  • No-Knead Cloverleaf Rolls
     
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    No-Knead Cloverleaf Rolls

    <p>Ree Drummond knows how to serve up a fantastic feast and these rolls will pair nicely with any spread. Served piping hot from the oven, these yeast-raised rolls are good enough to become a tradition at your holiday gatherings.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <strong><a href="http://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/no-knead-cloverleaf-rolls/15618/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">The Pioneer Woman’s No-Knead Cloverleaf Rolls</a></strong></p>
  • Ina Garten's Pecan Squares
     
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    Ina Garten's Pecan Squares

    <p>It's no secret that a whole slice of pecan pie can be a bit sweet for some, which is where Ina Garten’s squares come in handy. Not only is the recipe great for those who are a little unsure about making an actual pie crust, but it’s a real crowd pleaser thanks to the smaller (but equally delicious) portion sizes.</p> <p>Get the recipe for <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pecan-squares/17197/" target="_blank"><strong>Ina Garten's Pecan Squares</strong></a></p>
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