What To Know
- This classic Thanksgiving side is easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- This classic side dish is always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s also easy to make ahead of time.
- This creamy and flavorful soup is a great way to warm up on a cold Thanksgiving day.
With Thanksgiving just around the corner, it’s time to start planning your menu. And while the turkey is the star of the show, the sides are just as important. But who has time to cook everything on Thanksgiving Day? That’s where make-ahead sides come in.
The Benefits of Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Sides
There are many benefits to making your Thanksgiving sides ahead of time:
- Less stress on Thanksgiving Day: You’ll have one less thing to worry about on the big day, which means you can focus on enjoying time with your family and friends.
- More time to spend with guests: Instead of being stuck in the kitchen all day, you can actually spend time with your guests and enjoy the party.
- Better-tasting food: Many dishes actually taste better when they’re made ahead of time, as the flavors have time to meld together.
7 Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Side Dishes
Here are seven delicious make-ahead Thanksgiving side dishes that will free up your time on the big day:
1. Cranberry Orange Sauce
This classic Thanksgiving side is easy to make ahead of time and can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply combine cranberries, orange juice, sugar, and spices in a saucepan and simmer until thickened.
2. Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a must-have for any Thanksgiving feast, and they’re also easy to make ahead of time. Simply peel and boil your potatoes, then mash them with butter, milk, and salt and pepper to taste. You can also add in other ingredients, such as sour cream, cheese, or chives.
3. Green Bean Casserole
This classic side dish is always a crowd-pleaser, and it’s also easy to make ahead of time. Simply combine green beans, cream of mushroom soup, milk, and fried onions in a casserole dish. Bake until bubbly and heated through.
4. Stuffing
Stuffing is another Thanksgiving staple that can be made ahead of time. Simply combine your favorite stuffing ingredients, such as bread cubes, celery, onions, and herbs, in a large bowl. Add in some chicken broth or vegetable broth, and then bake until golden brown.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole
This sweet and savory side dish is a great way to use up leftover sweet potatoes. Simply mash your sweet potatoes with butter, sugar, and spices. Then, top with a pecan streusel and bake until golden brown.
6. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a healthy and delicious side dish that can be made ahead of time. Simply toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, roast in the oven until tender and browned.
7. Butternut Squash Soup
This creamy and flavorful soup is a great way to warm up on a cold Thanksgiving day. Simply roast butternut squash with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Then, puree the squash with chicken broth or vegetable broth.
How to Store Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Sides
Once you’ve made your make-ahead Thanksgiving sides, it’s important to store them properly so they stay fresh and delicious. Here are some tips:
- Refrigerator: Most make-ahead Thanksgiving sides can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to store them in airtight containers.
- Freezer: If you need to store your make-ahead Thanksgiving sides for longer than 3 days, you can freeze them. Be sure to store them in freezer-safe containers.
Reheating Make-Ahead Thanksgiving Sides
When you’re ready to serve your make-ahead Thanksgiving sides, simply reheat them according to the package directions. Most sides can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop.
Frequently Discussed Topics
1. Can I make all of my Thanksgiving sides ahead of time?
Yes, you can make most of your Thanksgiving sides ahead of time. However, there are a few sides that are best made fresh, such as mashed potatoes and green bean casserole.
2. How far in advance can I make my Thanksgiving sides?
Most make-ahead Thanksgiving sides can be made up to 3 days in advance. However, some sides, such as cranberry sauce, can be made up to a week in advance.
3. How do I reheat make-ahead Thanksgiving sides?
Most make-ahead Thanksgiving sides can be reheated in the oven, microwave, or on the stovetop. Be sure to reheat them according to the package directions.
