Perfect Pre-Thanksgiving Menu- Top 10 Recipes to Cook the Day Before the Big Feast

What to Cook the Day Before Thanksgiving: A Time-Saving Strategy

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and, of course, delicious food. However, the day itself can be quite hectic, with the pressure to prepare a feast that will satisfy everyone’s taste buds. To alleviate some of the stress, many people opt to cook certain dishes the day before Thanksgiving. This not only saves time on the actual holiday but also ensures that everything is fresh and delicious. In this article, we will explore some of the best dishes to cook the day before Thanksgiving, allowing you to enjoy the holiday with your loved ones without the kitchen chaos.

1. Roast Turkey

The centerpiece of any Thanksgiving meal is the roast turkey. Cooking a whole turkey can take several hours, so preparing it the day before is a wise choice. By brining the turkey the night before and roasting it in the oven the day of, you can ensure that the meat is juicy and flavorful. Simply place the turkey in the refrigerator overnight, and then cook it the next day according to your preferred recipe.

2. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are a classic side dish that can be made ahead of time. Simply boil the potatoes, mash them, and then let them cool. Once cooled, cover them and store them in the refrigerator. On Thanksgiving day, reheat the potatoes and add your favorite seasonings and toppings. This will save you time and ensure that your mashed potatoes are creamy and delicious.

3. Gravy

Gravy is an essential component of a Thanksgiving meal, and making it the day before can be a game-changer. By preparing the gravy ahead of time, you can focus on other dishes during the actual holiday. Simply cook the turkey drippings, add flour, and simmer the mixture until it reaches the desired consistency. Store the gravy in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and reheat it on Thanksgiving day.

4. Stuffing

Stuffing is another dish that can be made the day before. Prepare your stuffing mixture, including bread, herbs, and other ingredients, and then let it cool. Cover it and store it in the refrigerator. On Thanksgiving day, simply reheat the stuffing and stuff the turkey or serve it as a side dish.

5. Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a popular side dish that can be made ahead of time. Prepare the casserole by combining green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and French fried onions. Cover and store it in the refrigerator. On Thanksgiving day, reheat the casserole and bake it according to the recipe instructions.

6. Desserts

Desserts are often the highlight of Thanksgiving, and many can be made the day before. Cookies, pies, and other baked goods can be prepared and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until the big day. This will allow you to focus on the main dishes without worrying about dessert preparation.

In conclusion, cooking certain dishes the day before Thanksgiving can save you time and reduce stress on the actual holiday. By preparing the turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, green bean casserole, and desserts ahead of time, you can enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving with your loved ones. Happy cooking!