I can't believe that the countdown is on for Thanksgiving! Let's enjoy a stress free holiday and make the side dishes ahead of time. I'll be sharing some of my tried and true Thanksgiving side dish recipes along with a few out of the ordinary recipes to keep the feasting interesting. I've also tossed in my crowd pleasing appetizers and desserts and a make ahead breakfast or two too.
Without further adieu, let's get the Thanksgiving menu planning started!
The Thanksgiving menu is traditional. I know my family and friends like to see the classic Thanksgiving day feast on our table. But I do sneak in a few surprises because the best kind of prize is a surprise!
With my make ahead recipes, Thanksgiving can be stress free and spent visiting instead of standing over a hot stove. I've included a variety of recipes so pick and choose the ones you like best.
make ahead Thanksgiving side dishes
The turkey is the centerpiece of most Thanksgiving feasts. We always head outdoors and grill our turkey. If you have the means to cook a turkey on a grill, I highly recommend it. Not only does it have a smoky delicious flavor, but it frees up oven space which can be a premium on Thanksgiving Day.
Thanksgiving side dishes make the dinner interesting. And with these make ahead options you will have more time to kick your feet up and enjoy the day.
Apple, Fennel and Radish Slaw with Pecans and Blue Cheese
Apple and Bacon Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Pomegranate
Roasted Fall Squash with Cinnamon and Nutmeg
Easy and Delicious Cheddar Stuffed Potatoes
Easy 20 Minute Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
Roasted Carrot and Parsnip Fries
Garlic Butter Mushrooms with Blue Cheese
Thanksgiving appetizer recipes
A nibble here and a nibble there is always a fun way to nosh. I keep these appetizers on hand for easy to grab snacks for visiting family and friends. They all keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator pull these out and get the party rolling!
Muffin Tin Mac and Cheese Bites
Thanksgiving dessert recipes
Just a little something sweet to put the finishing touch on your Thanksgiving dinner. I do love pumpkin pie and always use Libby's Famous Pumpkin Pie recipe. It's a classic and never disappoints. And you can always pick up a BIG pumpkin pie at Costco. They are delish! Here are some more favorite desserts to add to your sweets table.
Delicious Mini Pumpkin Streusel Mini Bread
Soft Pumpkin Spice Cookies with Buttercream Frosting
Old Fashioned Stovetop Rice Pudding
Thanksgiving breakfast recipes
Do you have some overnight guests for your Thanksgiving celebration? Our house is full to the brim each year so I like to have a few breakfast options on hand. What better way to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day parade then with a mimosa and a few sweet and savory breakfast treats.
Easy Sausage, Spinach and Cheddar Breakfast Casserole
Breakfast Sandwich with Pork Roll, Egg and Cheese
I wish you all the happiest of Thanksgivings. I hope it is filled with good food, loving family and best friends.
just one more thing
If you prepare any of my make ahead Thanksgiving side dishes, appetizers, desserts or breakfast recipes, I’d love hearing from you all. Be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating ~ I do my best to reply to all your comments. And snap a photo to post to Instagram. I’ll add the photos to my Insta stories as I love seeing all your creations.
Check out my Facebook and Pinterest pages for lots of fabulous foodie stories and videos, cooking tips, and recipes.
Angela Vargas
Yummy
Amy Casey
Thank you Angela!