Thanksgiving Side Dishes Thanksgiving Side Dishes Make Ahead

Thanksgiving Side Dishes: Make Ahead and Savor the Holiday

Hey readers,

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude. But with all the hustle and bustle of cooking a traditional Thanksgiving feast, it can be hard to enjoy the moment. That’s why we’re here to help! We’ve gathered our favorite Thanksgiving side dishes that you can make ahead of time, so you can spend less time in the kitchen and more time with your loved ones.

Appetizers

• Cranberry Brie Bites: These bite-sized appetizers are perfect for a festive start to your Thanksgiving meal. Simply spread cranberry sauce over a wheel of Brie cheese, then sprinkle with chopped nuts and bake until warm and bubbly.
• Spinach and Artichoke Dip: This classic dip is always a crowd-pleaser. Make it ahead of time and serve with tortilla chips, crackers, or vegetables.
• Stuffed Mushrooms: These savory mushrooms are filled with a mixture of breadcrumbs, herbs, and cheese. They’re easy to make and can be baked or grilled.

Salads

• Brussels Sprouts Salad with Bacon and Apples: This salad is a delicious and healthy way to start your Thanksgiving meal. Roasted Brussels sprouts, crispy bacon, and sweet apples are tossed in a tangy vinaigrette.
• Roasted Butternut Squash Salad: This salad is a great way to showcase the seasonal flavors of fall. Roasted butternut squash, roasted pecans, and crumbled goat cheese are tossed in a maple vinaigrette.
• Green Bean Casserole: This classic Thanksgiving side dish can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving. Green beans are cooked in a creamy sauce with crispy fried onions.

Stuffings

• Traditional Bread Stuffing: This classic stuffing is made with bread cubes, herbs, and spices. It can be made ahead of time and baked just before serving.
• Cornbread Stuffing: This stuffing is a delicious twist on the traditional. Cornbread cubes are combined with herbs, spices, and vegetables.
• Wild Rice Stuffing: This stuffing is a unique and flavorful option. Wild rice is cooked with herbs, spices, and dried fruit.

Mashed Potatoes

• Classic Mashed Potatoes: This side dish is a must-have for any Thanksgiving table. Potatoes are mashed with milk, butter, and salt and pepper.
• Garlic Mashed Potatoes: These mashed potatoes have a delicious garlicky flavor. Potatoes are mashed with garlic, milk, butter, and salt and pepper.
• Twice-Baked Potatoes: These potatoes are mashed, then mixed with cheese, sour cream, and chives. They’re then baked until golden brown.

Casseroles

• Sweet Potato Casserole: This classic casserole is a favorite at Thanksgiving tables across the country. Sweet potatoes are mashed with butter, sugar, and spices.
• Pumpkin Casserole: This casserole is a delicious way to use up leftover pumpkin puree. Pumpkin puree is combined with spices, sugar, and eggs.
• Hash Brown Casserole: This casserole is a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes. Mashed potatoes are combined with hash browns, cheese, and soup.

Vegetables

• Roasted Vegetables: Roasted vegetables are a healthy and delicious way to complement your Thanksgiving meal. Simply toss your favorite vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast until tender.
• Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: These Brussels sprouts are roasted until tender, then drizzled with a balsamic glaze.
• Mashed Cauliflower: This creamy and delicious side dish is a great way to get your vegetables in. Cauliflower is mashed with milk, butter, and salt and pepper.

Table of Thanksgiving Side Dishes

Conclusion

We hope this article has given you some delicious ideas for make-ahead Thanksgiving side dishes. With these recipes, you can enjoy a stress-free holiday filled with family, food, and fun.

While you’re here, don’t forget to check out our other articles on Thanksgiving, including tips for cooking the perfect turkey, setting a beautiful table, and creating a festive atmosphere.

Happy Thanksgiving!

FAQ about Thanksgiving Side Dishes Make Ahead

Q: What side dishes can I make ahead of time?

A: Mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy, cranberry sauce, and vegetables like green bean casserole and roasted carrots.

Q: How far in advance can I make side dishes?

A: Most side dishes can be made 2-3 days ahead of time, except for mashed potatoes and gravy, which should be made the day before.

Q: How do I store make-ahead side dishes?

A: Store side dishes in airtight containers in the refrigerator.

Q: How do I reheat make-ahead side dishes?

A: Mashed potatoes and stuffing can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Gravy can be reheated on the stovetop. Vegetables can be reheated in the oven or microwave. Cranberry sauce can be reheated in the microwave.

Q: Can I freeze make-ahead side dishes?

A: Yes, most side dishes can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: What are some tips for making make-ahead side dishes?

A:

• Use high-quality ingredients.
• Season dishes well.
• Don’t overcook the dishes.
• Cool dishes completely before storing them.

Q: What are some easy make-ahead side dishes?

A:

• Mashed potatoes
• Stuffing
• Gravy
• Cranberry sauce
• Green bean casserole
• Roasted carrots

Q: What are some unique make-ahead side dishes?

A:

• Sweet potato casserole with marshmallow topping
• Brussels sprouts with bacon and balsamic vinegar
• Roasted butternut squash with maple syrup and cinnamon
• Cranberry orange relish
• Cornbread stuffing with sausage and apples

Q: Can I make make-ahead side dishes for a crowd?

A: Yes, double or triple the recipes as needed.

Q: What are some time-saving tips for making make-ahead side dishes?

A:

• Use a slow cooker to make mashed potatoes, stuffing, or gravy.
• Roast vegetables on a sheet pan.
• Make a big batch of cranberry sauce and freeze it in portions.