27 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Recipes That Will Save You Time

[ad_1] Revealed Nov. 16, 2020 Up to date Nov. 20, 2025

When planning a festive Thanksgiving menu, it’s necessary to have in mind time and actual property as a lot as style. What's going to match within the oven or stovetop on the large day, and what are you able to make upfront? Whether or not cooking for one, two or a number of, these make-ahead recipes, together with a bit planning and technique, will decrease your day-of duties.

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-greenfetadip-fjhw/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-greenfetadip-fjhw-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a black ceramic bowl full of green dip, topped with pistachios, red chile pepper and olive oil. It sits on a plate with crudite and crackers." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1179" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-greenfetadip-fjhw/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-greenfetadip-fjhw-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-greenfetadip-fjhw/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-greenfetadip-fjhw-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Bobbi Lin for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Rebecca Jurkevich. Prop Stylist: Megan Hedgpeth.

This dip from Andy Baraghani is a inexperienced, herbaceous reduction from all of the hearty, brown meals you’ll be consuming. It’s additionally a beautiful celebration appetizer, whatever the season.

DO AHEAD: Make the dip after which refrigerate for as much as three days. When able to serve, prime with pistachios, chile, flaky salt and olive oil, if desired.

Recipe: Inexperienced Feta Dip

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sweetpotatocasserole-htvm/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sweetpotatocasserole-htvm-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a baking dish full of sweet potato casserole, topped with browned marshmallows and layered with pecans. There is a serving spoon in the dish." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sweetpotatocasserole-htvm/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sweetpotatocasserole-htvm-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sweetpotatocasserole-htvm/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sweetpotatocasserole-htvm-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Ryan Liebe for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

Eric Kim went on a quest to make the right candy potato casserole, and, sure, it does have marshmallows on prime. It’s savory and subtly candy, because of bay-leaf-infused cream that goes within the potatoes.

DO AHEAD: Assemble the casserole as much as two days forward. To serve, bake for 25 minutes in a 350-degree oven after which broil for one to 2 minutes till the marshmallows are browned (however not a second longer).

Recipe: Marshmallow-Pecan Candy Potato Casserole

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-makeaheadmashedpotatoes-jlwm/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-makeaheadmashedpotatoes-jlwm-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a copper bowl of mashed potatoes, flecked with black pepper." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1366" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-makeaheadmashedpotatoes-jlwm/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-makeaheadmashedpotatoes-jlwm-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-makeaheadmashedpotatoes-jlwm/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-makeaheadmashedpotatoes-jlwm-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Christopher Simpson for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews. Prop Stylist: Paige Hicks.

These mashed potatoes from Genevieve Ko really get silkier as they chill, with the assistance of some sensible strategies. The hot button is to interrupt up the potatoes gently — by hand or with a mixer’s paddle attachment — in order that not an excessive amount of starch is launched.

DO AHEAD: Make the potatoes after which retailer them within the fridge for as much as three days. To reheat, place in a big bowl over steaming water. Add a skinny layer of milk on prime of the potatoes and stir each 10 minutes till creamy and heated by way of. Stir in additional milk or butter, and season to style once more earlier than serving.

Recipe: Make-Forward Mashed Potatoes

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2023/04/30/magazine/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sopapillacheesecakebar/30mag-eat-site-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A plate of cheesecake bars stacked on top of one another. They have flaky dough layers as well as a creamy cheesecake layer in the center." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1367" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2023/04/30/magazine/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sopapillacheesecakebar/30mag-eat-site-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2023/04/30/magazine/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-sopapillacheesecakebar/30mag-eat-site-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Chris Simpson for The New York Occasions. Meals stylist: Maggie Ruggiero. Prop stylist: Sophia Pappas.

These Southwestern-inspired bars from Maria Kitsopoulos, a cellist with the New York Philharmonic, want solely store-bought crescent roll dough, cream cheese, sugar, vanilla extract, butter and cinnamon to come back collectively. Their delicate crunch cuts by way of the standard tender and squishy puddings, muffins and pies on the desk.

DO AHEAD: Bake after which refrigerate for as much as three days till you’re able to serve.

Recipe: Sopapilla Cheesecake Bars

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-redwinecranberrysaucewithhoney-bcvw/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-redwinecranberrysaucewithhoney-bcvw-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a bowl of chunky cranberry sauce." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-redwinecranberrysaucewithhoney-bcvw/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-redwinecranberrysaucewithhoney-bcvw-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-redwinecranberrysaucewithhoney-bcvw/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-redwinecranberrysaucewithhoney-bcvw-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Christopher Testani for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews. Prop Stylist: Christina Lane.

Think about this the platonic ultimate of a cranberry sauce. Melissa Clark’s recipe is subtle however not too sophisticated and yields a splendidly tart outcome, should you don’t like your cranberries too candy.

DO AHEAD: Make the sauce on the stovetop after which chill for 3 to 5 days earlier than serving.

Recipe: Pink Wine Cranberry Sauce With Honey

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-christinatosicornbake-fmqt/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-christinatosicornbake-fmqt-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An oval baking dish full of corn pudding with corn kernels. There is a serving spoon in the dish." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1681" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-christinatosicornbake-fmqt/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-christinatosicornbake-fmqt-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-christinatosicornbake-fmqt/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-christinatosicornbake-fmqt-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... David Malosh for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

Custardy, buttery and satisfying, this corn bake recipe from Christina Tosi requires a field of corn muffin combine and canned substances you could purchase properly upfront of the vacation. Simply combine every thing collectively in a single large bowl and bake.

DO AHEAD: Bake after which cowl and refrigerate for as much as every week upfront. Whenever you’re able to serve, reheat it in a 325-degree oven for quarter-hour.

Recipe: Christina Tosi’s Corn Bake

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-flakeypiecrust-qflz/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-flakeypiecrust-qflz-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of unbaked pie crust covering a pie dish." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1383" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-flakeypiecrust-qflz/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-flakeypiecrust-qflz-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-flakeypiecrust-qflz/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-flakeypiecrust-qflz-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Armando Rafael for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Laurie Ellen Pellicano.

Dashing to make from-scratch pie dough is each house cook dinner’s nightmare. Claire Saffitz’s recipe reduces a number of the stress. It comes collectively in 10 minutes after which chills for 2 hours. As one reader writes, “Coming from the right pie crust recipe after a frenzied morning-before-Thanksgiving blind-baking catastrophe, this recipe is a godsend.”

DO AHEAD: Put collectively the dough after which refrigerate for as much as three days earlier than baking. You can even freeze this as much as two months upfront and thaw it in a single day within the fridge.

Recipe: Flaky Pie Crust

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2021/02/23/dining/19celeryrex3/19celeryrex3-superJumbo-v3.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead image of salad in a blue bowl, with sliced celery and celery leaves, sliced apples, chopped pecans and pieces of blue cheese. There is a fork in the bowl" decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2021/02/23/dining/19celeryrex3/19celeryrex3-jumbo-v3.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2021/02/23/dining/19celeryrex3/19celeryrex3-superJumbo-v3.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Linda Xiao for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Monica Pierini.

This five-star recipe brings recent, assertive taste to the Thanksgiving desk and has sufficient texture to carry up in a single day within the fridge.

DO AHEAD: Assemble the French dressing substances in a small jar so you'll be able to merely shake earlier than serving. Toss your sliced celery, apples and celery root with simply sufficient French dressing to type a lightweight coating, which can stop them from oxidizing. Refrigerate each parts in a single day after which assemble simply earlier than the large meal.

Recipe: Celery Salad With Apples and Blue Cheese

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/11/15/dining/yk-peanut-and-pumpkin-soup/yk-peanut-and-pumpkin-soup-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A bowl of bright yellow-orange soup topped with yogurt and chives sits on a light gray background. To the right is a spoon." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1366" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/11/15/dining/yk-peanut-and-pumpkin-soup/yk-peanut-and-pumpkin-soup-jumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/11/15/dining/yk-peanut-and-pumpkin-soup/yk-peanut-and-pumpkin-soup-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Linda Xiao for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Monica Pierini.

Impressed by a stew frequent in a lot of West Africa, Yewande Komolafe’s pumpkin soup has earthiness from peanut butter, brightness from ginger and warmth from recent chiles, all united by creamy coconut milk.

DO AHEAD: Make it a number of days upfront to take pleasure in as a easy Thanksgiving lunch whereas the primary meal comes collectively, or serve small parts as a warming appetizer.

Recipe: Spicy Peanut and Pumpkin Soup

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/10/28/dining/garlic-kale-salad/merlin_105432130_4e30fd58-8264-4bdf-95f9-d05db12d0570-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A wooden serving bowl holds lemon-garlic kale salad with slivered almonds and Parmesan. A silver spoon and fork are in the bowl. Additional almonds are in a small measuring cup nearby, as is a striped napkin." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/10/28/dining/garlic-kale-salad/merlin_105432130_4e30fd58-8264-4bdf-95f9-d05db12d0570-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/10/28/dining/garlic-kale-salad/merlin_105432130_4e30fd58-8264-4bdf-95f9-d05db12d0570-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Craig Lee for The New York Occasions

Kale can simply climate an evening within the fridge with out wilting into oblivion, and this salad helps offset a (tasty!) sea of starches on the desk. Use any leftovers to perk up turkey sandwiches, turkey soup or grilled cheese.

DO AHEAD: Prep the greens and dressing a day or two upfront, refrigerating them individually in a single day. Assemble simply earlier than serving.

Recipe: Lemon-Garlic Kale Salad

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-pumpkindatetiramisu-fchv/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-pumpkindatetiramisu-fchv-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A side shot of a slice of pumpkin tiramisu on a plate. There is a fork in the background." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1366" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-pumpkindatetiramisu-fchv/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-pumpkindatetiramisu-fchv-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-pumpkindatetiramisu-fchv/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-pumpkindatetiramisu-fchv-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Andrew Bui for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Kaitlin Wayne.

Tiramisù is a perfect make-ahead candidate as a result of it will get higher the longer it sits. This fall-flavored possibility from Carolina Gelen is manufactured from chai-soaked ladyfingers and a whipped pumpkin-date mascarpone cream.

DO AHEAD: Assemble the tiramisù and chill within the fridge for as much as 4 days.

Recipe: Pumpkin Date Tiramisù

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/12/12/dining/em-everything-bagel-rolls/merlin_145792413_09fabdce-11d6-4206-90fb-6471f21981bf-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a dish full of 12 round bread rolls topped with everything seasoning." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/12/12/dining/em-everything-bagel-rolls/merlin_145792413_09fabdce-11d6-4206-90fb-6471f21981bf-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/12/12/dining/em-everything-bagel-rolls/merlin_145792413_09fabdce-11d6-4206-90fb-6471f21981bf-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Julia Gartland for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Ali Slagle.

Relating to carbs, some households swear by store-bought household favorites for simplicity, whereas these with avid bakers have freshly baked bread. These rolls from Erin Jeanne McDowell bridge that divide: The every thing bagel topping makes them distinctive sufficient to justify the hassle. (Simply consider all of the sandwich combos you'll be able to craft with leftovers.)

DO AHEAD: Bake them as much as a day or two upfront. To reheat, merely wrap the rolls in a humid paper towel and microwave in 15-second bursts till steamy.

Recipe: Every little thing Parker Home Rolls

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-mashedpotatocasserole-jglb/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-mashedpotatocasserole-jglb-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a baking dish of mashed potato casserole, topped with bread crumbs. There is a spoon in the dish." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-mashedpotatocasserole-jglb/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-mashedpotatocasserole-jglb-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-mashedpotatocasserole-jglb/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-mashedpotatocasserole-jglb-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... David Malosh for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

There are a lot of robust opinions on the market on whether or not mashed potatoes might be made upfront — and conflicting strategies on retailer them — however almost 2,000 readers have given this recipe 5 stars. Melissa Clark mashes her potatoes with a beneficiant quantity of bitter cream and butter, folds them right into a baking dish and refrigerates them till mealtime. Her trick to maintain them moist when reheating? Prime — and shield — the creamy spuds with a crisp crust of tacky bread crumbs earlier than baking.

DO AHEAD: Cook dinner the potatoes, assemble the casserole, wrap it tightly and retailer it within the fridge a day or two earlier than Thanksgiving.

Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/10/18/dining/ss-apple-cider-whoopie-pies-horizontal/ss-apple-cider-whoopie-pies-horizontal-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="Two apple cider whoopie pies with a layer of cream cheese filling, on a plate." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1364" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/10/18/dining/ss-apple-cider-whoopie-pies-horizontal/ss-apple-cider-whoopie-pies-horizontal-jumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/10/18/dining/ss-apple-cider-whoopie-pies-horizontal/ss-apple-cider-whoopie-pies-horizontal-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Linda Xiao for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Monica Pierini.

Spiced like apple pie and pressed round a cream cheese filling, these tiny autumn muffins from Samantha Seneviratne are an absolute delight.

DO AHEAD: You possibly can put together them a day upfront and set them apart at room temperature earlier than serving, however beware: They're extremely snackable, and the cream cheese would possibly assist justify consuming them for breakfast.

Recipe: Apple Cider Whoopie Pies

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/10/22/dining/ss-mushroom-bread-pudding/merlin_162801066_654c88c5-5bef-46fa-955e-a75046eb66c7-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a baking dish of bread pudding, studded with mushrooms and topped with melted cheese and sage leaves." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/10/22/dining/ss-mushroom-bread-pudding/merlin_162801066_654c88c5-5bef-46fa-955e-a75046eb66c7-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/10/22/dining/ss-mushroom-bread-pudding/merlin_162801066_654c88c5-5bef-46fa-955e-a75046eb66c7-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... David Malosh for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Barrett Washburne.

This visible masterpiece from Susan Spungen is as sensible as it's gorgeous. Serve any leftovers for brunch, or match them with a zingy inexperienced salad for supper.

DO AHEAD: You possibly can assemble it a day upfront, refrigerate in a single day after which bake simply earlier than serving.

Recipe: Mushroom Bread Pudding

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/11/01/dining/sl-roasted-carrots-with-five-spice/merlin_163577592_55f89804-9055-47dd-808b-5ecc311eacb8-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead image of sliced roasted carrots topped with almonds." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/11/01/dining/sl-roasted-carrots-with-five-spice/merlin_163577592_55f89804-9055-47dd-808b-5ecc311eacb8-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/11/01/dining/sl-roasted-carrots-with-five-spice/merlin_163577592_55f89804-9055-47dd-808b-5ecc311eacb8-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Linda Xiao for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Monica Pierini.

The roasted carrots on this vivid dish from Sue Li lend themselves particularly properly to advance cooking as a result of they're equally good scorching or at room temperature.

DO AHEAD: Roast the carrots a day or two forward. To reheat, rapidly tuck them right into a scorching oven, heat them in a microwave or just take away them from the fridge and produce to room temp. Prime them with chives, toasted nuts, ginger and vinegar simply earlier than serving.

Recipe: 5-Spice Roasted Carrots With Toasted Almonds

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-umamigravy-gtzf/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-umamigravy-gtzf-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a pan of gravy, with a wooden spoon in the pan. On the side are a small bowl of nutritional yeast and a pepper grinder." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-umamigravy-gtzf/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-umamigravy-gtzf-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-umamigravy-gtzf/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-umamigravy-gtzf-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Bryan Gardner for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Barrett Washburne. Prop Stylist: Paige Hicks.

This straightforward gravy from Eric Kim doesn’t require turkey drippings, which suggests you will get a head begin by making ready it upfront. It depends on a base of caramelized pink onion, with an non-obligatory teaspoon of dietary yeast for a savory enhance.

DO AHEAD: Eric recommends making this the day earlier than Thanksgiving after which reheating it within the microwave or on the stovetop once you’re able to serve.

Recipe: Umami Gravy

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/09/04/dining/apple-pie-bars/apple-pie-bars-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A side shot of an apple pie bar, with another bar in the background." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1364" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/09/04/dining/apple-pie-bars/apple-pie-bars-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/09/04/dining/apple-pie-bars/apple-pie-bars-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Linda Xiao for The New York Occasions

Flavored with cinnamon, cardamom and nutmeg, these hand-held pie bars from Genevieve Ko are topped with a buttery walnut crumble. They're scrumptious, and a back-pocket dessert for bold cooks with large day-of plans.

DO AHEAD: Although these bars are finest recent out of the oven the day they're baked, they are often sliced and refrigerated for as much as two days or frozen for as much as a month forward.

Recipe: Apple Pie Bars

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/03/dining/mp-green-bean/mp-green-bean-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a baking dish full of green bean casserole, topped with bread crumbs and fried onions." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1366" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/03/dining/mp-green-bean/mp-green-bean-jumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/03/dining/mp-green-bean/mp-green-bean-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Christopher Simpson for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

Millie Peartree’s inexperienced bean casserole takes inspiration from the traditional three-ingredient dish, however bumps up the flavour by including roasted mushrooms and a Parmesan-based cream together with Cajun spices and nutmeg. This isn't a dish of crisp-tender greens; they are going to be tender and creamy, and the topping will present all of the crunch you crave.

DO AHEAD: Shorten the bean roasting time by a couple of minutes, put together your sauce and stash each individually within the fridge as much as a day forward. Reheat them gently collectively in a saucepan, slip the combination into your baking dish, prime with the tacky bread crumbs and fried onions and broil till bubbly.

Recipe: Roasted Mushroom and Inexperienced Bean Casserole

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/11/06/dining/04NativeAmericanrex2/04NativeAmericanrex2-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of assorted turnips and winter squash on a black plate, topped with pine nuts." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/11/06/dining/04NativeAmericanrex2/04NativeAmericanrex2-jumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2019/11/06/dining/04NativeAmericanrex2/04NativeAmericanrex2-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Marcus Nilsson for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Maggie Ruggiero. Prop Stylist: Paige Hicks.

These roasted root greens from Sean Sherman’s assortment of 10 important Native American recipes are seasoned with sage and sweetened with agave.

DO AHEAD: The greens might be cooked by way of Step 2 after which cooled and chilled one or two days upfront. To reheat, set them on a baking sheet, cowl them tightly with aluminum foil and roast gently at 400 levels till warmed, about quarter-hour. Then proceed with Step 3, brushing with agave and cooking till shiny.

Recipe: Roasted Turnips and Winter Squash With Agave Glaze

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2022/11/22/dining/06apperex-gratin/06apperex-gratin-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead image of a sheet-pan of golden brown, scalloped gratin. The gratin has been cut into eight pieces, and one has been removed." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1366" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2022/11/22/dining/06apperex-gratin/06apperex-gratin-jumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2022/11/22/dining/06apperex-gratin/06apperex-gratin-superJumbo-v2.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Ryan Liebe for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

By baking these potatoes on a sheet pan, not solely does Melissa Clark maximize the floor space of the gratin to spice up browning and caramelization, she thoughtfully saves you time on the entrance finish and the again finish: It’ll cook dinner — and reheat — quicker than denser dishes.

DO AHEAD: You possibly can assemble the gratin as much as 4 hours earlier than baking. Retailer it, loosely coated, within the fridge. The gratin can be baked 4 hours forward, stored uncovered at room temperature after which reheated in a 450-degree oven till the highest is shiny.

Recipe: Scalloped Potato Gratin

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-dollypartoncranberrymold-fzbj/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-dollypartoncranberrymold-fzbj-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A shiny, red Bundt jelly sits on a white plate. There is a dish of whipped cream in the top right corner." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-dollypartoncranberrymold-fzbj/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-dollypartoncranberrymold-fzbj-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-dollypartoncranberrymold-fzbj/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-dollypartoncranberrymold-fzbj-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... David Malosh for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

What would Dolly do? Make this ruby-red jelly mould, that’s what. Her recipe consists of some retro touches, like crushed pineapple, chopped celery and chopped pecans, and is sure to please on the desk.

DO AHEAD: As soon as the gelatin combination is within the mould or Bundt pan, refrigerate for as much as 24 hours earlier than unmolding.

Recipe: Dolly Parton’s Cranberry Mould

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/02/04/magazine/04mag-eat1/04mag-eat1-superJumbo-v3.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a baking dish full of panade, topped with soft bread and melted cheese. There is a spoon in the dish" decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/02/04/magazine/04mag-eat1/04mag-eat1-jumbo-v3.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/02/04/magazine/04mag-eat1/04mag-eat1-superJumbo-v3.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Gentl and Hyers for The New York Occasions. Meals stylist: Maggie Ruggiero. Prop stylist: Amy Wilson.

Samin Nosrat describes panade as “the French nation cook dinner’s reply to stuffing.” Although many stuffings can lose their construction when ready upfront, her recipe depends on sturdy stale bread, caramelized onions and layers of melted Gruyère.

DO AHEAD: In contrast to your typical stuffing, this may be refrigerated for as much as three days and reheated for indisputably scrumptious outcomes.

Recipe: French Onion Panade

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-cranberryorangerelish-hqfg/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-cranberryorangerelish-hqfg-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a bowl of chunky cranberry-orange relish. There is a spoon in the bowl." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-cranberryorangerelish-hqfg/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-cranberryorangerelish-hqfg-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2025/11/19/multimedia/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-cranberryorangerelish-hqfg/19FD-MAKE-AHEAD-TG-ROUNDUP-cranberryorangerelish-hqfg-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Linda Xiao for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Monica Pierini.

This cranberry relish from Martha Rose Shulman doesn’t require any cooking. Pulse the cranberries, orange segments and nuts in a meals processor with some honey till they break into itty-bitty items, and your sauce is about.

DO AHEAD: Refrigerating it for a number of days helps the flavors meld. (Most cranberry sauces will maintain up properly refrigerated for a number of days.) You possibly can punch up the flavour with recent ginger and orange zest — or tame it with warming spices like nutmeg, cinnamon or 5 spice — simply earlier than serving.

Recipe: Cranberry-Orange Relish

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/25/dining/jg-sweet-potato-pie/merlin_162370008_82cfc608-d37c-4ebb-b60b-7f9938f06521-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A sweet potato casserole pie with a cookie crust, on a cake stand. It’s topped with lightly browned marshmallows." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/25/dining/jg-sweet-potato-pie/merlin_162370008_82cfc608-d37c-4ebb-b60b-7f9938f06521-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2020/11/25/dining/jg-sweet-potato-pie/merlin_162370008_82cfc608-d37c-4ebb-b60b-7f9938f06521-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... David Malosh for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

Impressed by — you guessed it! — candy potato casserole, Jerrelle Man presents a convincing case that this traditional dish is finest loved in pie type.

DO AHEAD: Put together your basis of crunchy floor pecans and custardy roasted candy potatoes and refrigerate as much as two days upfront. Come dessert time, prime it with marshmallows and broil for a couple of minutes till it’s golden in spots.

Recipe: Candy Potato Casserole Pie

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/11/06/dining/ya-pumpkin-caramel-cake/ya-pumpkin-caramel-cake-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="A tall, layered pumpkin cake covered with caramel sits next to two slices on white plates. Arranged around them are clear glasses filled with a light liquid." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1366" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/11/06/dining/ya-pumpkin-caramel-cake/ya-pumpkin-caramel-cake-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2018/11/06/dining/ya-pumpkin-caramel-cake/ya-pumpkin-caramel-cake-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... Joseph De Leo for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Monica Pierini.

Yossy Arefi’s recipe requires a while, however the payoff is as spectacular because it appears to be like.

DO AHEAD: The cake might be ready, assembled and refrigerated a few days upfront. Convey it to room temperature earlier than serving, or slice and wrap chilled items to share, because the stiff buttercream will make them sturdy sufficient to ship to pals, household and neighbors.

Recipe: Pumpkin Layer Cake With Caramel Buttercream

<img src="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2021/11/01/dining/ya-gruyere-and-black-pepper-scones/ya-gruyere-and-black-pepper-scones-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale" alt="An overhead shot of a wheel of scones sitting on parchment paper. To the left, one of the scones sits on a plate." decoding="async" class="ResponsiveImage_image__zGSfP" width="2048" height="1365" srcset="https://static01.nyt.com/images/2021/11/01/dining/ya-gruyere-and-black-pepper-scones/ya-gruyere-and-black-pepper-scones-jumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 1024w, https://static01.nyt.com/images/2021/11/01/dining/ya-gruyere-and-black-pepper-scones/ya-gruyere-and-black-pepper-scones-superJumbo.jpg?format=pjpg&quality=75&auto=webp&disable=upscale 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 1280px) 100vw, 1160px"/> Credit score... David Malosh for The New York Occasions. Meals Stylist: Simon Andrews.

Loads of Gruyère and toasted walnuts make these scones from Yossy Arefi worthy of the Thanksgiving desk. Because the cheese melts, a few of it escapes onto the pan and crisps into irresistible fricolike edges.

DO AHEAD: Bake after which retailer in an hermetic container for as much as two days. When you’re working farther upfront, freeze them (cool utterly first) and heat once you’re able to serve.

Recipe: Gruyère and Black Pepper Scones

View our collections of Thanksgiving Pie Recipes, Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes That Are Not Pie, Thanksgiving Facet Dish Recipes, and Thanksgiving Candy Potato Recipes. Get all of our greatest Thanksgiving recipes on NYT Cooking.

Observe NYT Meals on Twitter and NYT Cooking on Instagram, Fb, YouTube and Pinterest. Get common updates from NYT Cooking, with recipe ideas, cooking suggestions and purchasing recommendation.