A little planning goes a long way.
A kitchen full of hot pans and hungry guests is a lot to manage.
Prevent a last-minute scramble by considering dishes that can be made ahead.
Credit: Emily Laurae/Southern Living
Soup
We’ll start with a no-brainer.
Make it a week or a few days in advance, freeze, and thaw the night before.
Stock
Your turkey or chicken stock is another obvious make-ahead choice.
Credit: Emily Laurae/Southern Living
Casseroles
Casseroles are the queens of Thanksgiving.
(Clear some space in your freezer if you’re working further in advance.)
Casseroles that have a pre-cooked protein or no meat can be made in advance and frozen uncooked.
Credit: Greg Dupree
Don’t forget to stir in some turkey drippings as you reheat for a final and extra flavorful touch.
Most hold up well and don’t experience any change in consistency when refrigerated for several days.
Be sure to save any toppings that won’t hold up well until right before serving.
Rolls
There’s no shame at all in serving store-bought rolls in your Thanksgiving breadbasket.
Or, it’s possible for you to make and freeze the dough up to three months in advance.
The consistency of reheated mashed potatoes is never quite the same.
Mashed potatoes are best whipped right before heading to the table.
Penn State Extension.Make-ahead freezer meals to the rescue.
