Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving

25 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes, From Turkey to Stuffing

Last updated on September 28, 2020 by Laura Grande

Thanksgiving can be a blur, even in current circumstances with smaller social gatherings. 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!

  • Turkey Sausage and Chestnut Stuffing
     
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    Turkey Sausage and Chestnut Stuffing

    <p>Stuffing recipes don't get much better than this! This colourful turkey sausage 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>
  • 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>
  • Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole
     
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    Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole

    <p> Instead of the traditional dinner, consider hosting a low-key brunch for those in your social bubble with this autumn-inspired <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/30-unique-ways-with-pumpkin/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">pumpkin-infused</a> French toast <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/ina-garten-casserole-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">casserole</a>. Use pumpkin pie puree for an additional touch of warm and comforting flavours. Since the unbaked portion of the casserole needs to sit in the fridge overnight, it's an ideal make-ahead dish.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/pumpkin-spice-french-toast-casserole/19031/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pumpkin Spice French Toast Casserole</a></strong> </p>
  • Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce
     
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    Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce

    <p> When it comes to Thanksgiving side dishes, is there a bigger classic than this? Ina Garten's simple recipe only takes 30 minutes to make, but leaving it in the fridge overnight will further amplify it's bold, tangy flavour. Skipping the turkey this year? Consider one of these <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/delicious-vegan-thanksgiving-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">vegan Thanksgiving recipes</a>. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/make-ahead-cranberry-sauce/17580/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ina Garten's Make-Ahead Cranberry Sauce</a></strong> </p>
  • Slow Cooker Hard Cider
     
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    Slow Cooker Hard Cider

    <p> This make-ahead <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/fantastic-fall-thanksgiving-cocktail-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cocktail</a> is perfect for a chilly autumn day or the Thanksgiving long weekend. Bonus: while it's simmering in your <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/best-fall-slow-cooker-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">slow cooker</a>, your house will smell amazing. </p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/slow-cooker-hard-cider/20694/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Slow Cooker Hard Cider</a></strong> </p>
  • Spiced Thanksgiving Sugar Cookies
     
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    Spiced Thanksgiving Sugar Cookies

    <p> There's no written rule that <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/holidays/photos/top-101-holiday-cookies-and-squares/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sugar cookies</a> can only be enjoyed during the winter holiday season, so get your bake on early and whip up this charming Thanksgiving-inspired alternative that is sure to satisfy everyone's sweet tooth.</p> <p> Get the recipe for <strong><a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/recipe/spiced-thanksgiving-sugar-cookies/19107/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Spiced Thanksgiving Sugar Cookies</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 enjoy for lunch after the Thanksgiving long weekend. Check out these delicious <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/thanksgiving/photos/indigenous-fall-harvest-recipes/#!indigenous-fall-recipes-buffalo-beef-stew" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Indigenous fall harvest recipes</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 scrumptious holiday favourite in advance. Your loved ones 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 Apple Crisp
     
    9 of 25

    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>
  • 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>
  • 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 small gathering for simple setup 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>
  • 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>
  • 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 <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/everyday-cooking/photos/make-ahead-chicken-casserole-recipes" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">chicken casserole</a> 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 <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/healthy-eating/photos/superfood-spotlight-best-sweet-potato-recipes/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">sweet potato</a> 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>
  • 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>
  • Green Bean Casserole
     
    17 of 25

    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>
  • Killer Kale Salad
     
    18 of 25

    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>
  • Pumpkin Pie Bars
     
    19 of 25

    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
     
    20 of 25

    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>
  • Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes
     
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    Slow Cooker Scalloped Potatoes

    <p>These scalloped <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/comfort-food/photos/perfect-potato-side-dishes/" 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>
  • 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>
  • 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 three hours of chilling time.</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>
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