Thanksgiving dinner is one of the most cherished meals of the year, but it can also be a bit overwhelming with all the cooking and prepping that goes into it. The good news? Make-ahead casseroles are a game-changer. These dishes allow you to enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving by preparing most of your sides and casseroles in advance. From creamy mashed potatoes to savory stuffing and everything in between, these 10 classic make-ahead casseroles will help you streamline your holiday meal prep while still delivering on flavor. Prepare them the day before, pop them in the oven on Thanksgiving Day, and enjoy!
1. Classic Green Bean Casserole
A Thanksgiving classic that never goes out of style! This comforting dish combines tender green beans with creamy mushroom soup and crispy fried onions. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare ahead of time. Assemble the casserole the day before, cover it, and refrigerate until you’re ready to bake. When it’s time for dinner, just pop it in the oven, and in about 30 minutes, you’ll have a creamy, crunchy, and flavorful side dish ready to go.Get the recipe: Classic Green Bean Casserole
2. Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are a staple at any Thanksgiving meal, and making them ahead of time is a lifesaver. By preparing the potatoes the day before, you can save valuable time on the big day. Simply boil the potatoes, mash them with butter, cream, and seasoning, and store them in the fridge. When it’s time to serve, just reheat them in the oven or microwave. For extra richness, top them with a little melted butter or cheese before serving. Get the recipe: Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
3. Sweet Potato Casserole
This dish is a delicious balance of sweet and savory, and it’s perfect for preparing the day before Thanksgiving. The smooth, mashed sweet potatoes are combined with brown sugar, cinnamon, and a buttery topping, often featuring marshmallows or pecans. Assemble the casserole the night before and refrigerate. Then, bake it the next day, allowing the flavors to meld together for a perfectly sweet, melt-in-your-mouth side. Get the recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole
4. Baked Macaroni and Cheese
Mac and cheese is a beloved side dish, and making it ahead of time ensures that you won’t have to worry about it on Thanksgiving Day. The creamy cheese sauce mixed with tender pasta can be made the day before and stored in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, bake it in the oven until it’s golden and bubbly. The crispy, cheesy topping is what takes this casserole to the next level, and it’s guaranteed to be a crowd favorite. Get the recipe: Baked Macaroni and Cheese
5. Stuffing (or Dressing)
Stuffing is a key component of the Thanksgiving feast, and it can easily be prepared in advance. Whether you prefer a traditional bread stuffing with herbs, sausage, or a veggie-packed version, you can assemble it the night before and refrigerate it. On Thanksgiving Day, simply bake it until golden brown and crisp on top. The stuffing can be cooked separately or inside the turkey, depending on your preference.
Get the recipe: Stuffing (or Dressing)
6. Cranberry Sauce Casserole
Cranberry sauce is often a must-have side at Thanksgiving, and while the traditional version is simple to make, this cranberry sauce casserole adds an exciting twist to the classic. By incorporating orange zest, sugar, and a crispy topping, you turn your usual cranberry sauce into a rich, flavorful casserole. Prepare this ahead of time, refrigerate it, and bake just before serving to enjoy the sweet-tart combination of flavors. Get the recipe: Cranberry Sauce Casserole
7. Scalloped Potatoes
Scalloped potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and they make the perfect make-ahead dish for Thanksgiving. Sliced potatoes are layered with a rich, creamy sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. To make this dish ahead of time, prepare the casserole the day before and refrigerate it. On Thanksgiving Day, all you need to do is bake it to perfection. For an added flavor boost, sprinkle some cheddar cheese or fresh herbs on top before baking. Get the recipe: Scalloped Potatoes
8. Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
This creamy casserole combines the richness of spinach and artichokes with a cheesy, comforting sauce. It’s an excellent side dish for Thanksgiving that can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. The dish can be baked right before serving, allowing the flavors to meld together while achieving the perfect, golden-brown topping. This is a great option for adding some greens to your holiday spread while still keeping it indulgent. Get the recipe: Spinach and Artichoke Casserole
9. Cornbread Casserole
If you’re looking for a sweet, savory side to complement your Thanksgiving dinner, cornbread casserole is an excellent option. This dish combines the flavor of cornbread with a creamy texture, thanks to ingredients like sour cream and butter. It’s perfect for making ahead and baking right before the meal. The result is a moist, flavorful side that will pair wonderfully with turkey and gravy.
Get the recipe: Cornbread Casserole
10. Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Broccoli and rice casserole is a comforting and wholesome dish that can be easily made ahead. With tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce, this casserole is both satisfying and flavorful. Assemble it the day before and refrigerate it until it’s time to bake. The cheesy sauce and crispy topping create a perfect balance of flavors that will complement the rest of your Thanksgiving spread.
Get the recipe: Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Make-ahead casseroles are a Thanksgiving game-changer, allowing you to spend more time enjoying the holiday and less time scrambling in the kitchen. With these 10 classic casseroles, you can prep the majority of your meal in advance and have everything ready to go on the big day. From creamy mashed potatoes to cheesy mac and cheese and savory stuffing, these dishes will elevate your Thanksgiving feast and ensure that your guests leave satisfied. So, take the stress out of Thanksgiving prep and make your holiday meal a breeze with these crowd-pleasing make-ahead casseroles.
