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Best Foods to Prep the Night Before Thanksgiving: No Getting Off This Train

As Thanksgiving approaches, the anticipation of a sumptuous feast fills the air. Yet, with the hustle and bustle of cooking for friends and family, the holiday can quickly turn overwhelming. To ease the stress, why not consider prepping some of your dishes the night before? Not only does this strategy save time on the big day, but it also allows you to enjoy the festivities with your loved ones. Below, we share some of the best foods to prepare the evening prior to Thanksgiving, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable celebration.

1. Stuffing

Stuffing, or dressing, is a quintessential part of any Thanksgiving meal. Preparing it the night before can enhance its flavours as it sits overnight, allowing the bread to soak up the broth and seasoning. Simply prepare your ingredients—bread cubes, herbs, sautéed vegetables, and broth—mix them together, transfer them to a suitable dish, and cover. On the day of Thanksgiving, all you need to do is pop it into the oven alongside your turkey.

2. Vegetables

Chopping and prepping vegetables can be time-consuming. Simplify your Thanksgiving prep by washing, peeling, and chopping vegetables the night before. Carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts can all be prepped in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge. On the day itself, simply toss them with olive oil, season, and roast for a deliciously easy side dish.

3. Gravy

Homemade gravy can elevate your turkey and mashed potatoes to another level. To save time, make your gravy the night before using the turkey drippings, broth, and your favourite flavourings. Allow it to cool before transferring it to a container, and it can be reheated on the stovetop once your turkey is cooked, adding a rich depth to your meal.

4. Cranberry Sauce

Homemade cranberry sauce is an easy and vibrant addition to your Thanksgiving table. It can be made well in advance and stored in the fridge, where the flavours will meld beautifully overnight. Simply combine fresh cranberries, sugar, and any additional spices like orange zest or cinnamon in a saucepan, simmer until thickened, and let it cool before refrigerating.

5. Pies and Desserts

Pies are a Thanksgiving staple, but baking one on the day can be a tight squeeze. To avoid any last-minute rush, consider making your pies the night before. Whether it’s a classic pumpkin pie, pecan, or apple pie, prepare the fillings, bake the crusts, and assemble them, then pop them in the oven. Once cooled, store them in the fridge, ready to impress your guests after the main feast.

6. Mashed Potatoes

While preparing mashed potatoes on Thanksgiving could involve peeling and boiling potatoes, you can save time by prepping them the night before. Peel and cut the potatoes, store them in a pot of cold water in the fridge, and simply boil and mash them on the day. For extra creaminess, consider adding butter and cream after mashing.

7. Salads

If you’re serving a salad, consider prepping the components the night before. Wash, chop, and store your salad greens and vegetables in containers, and prepare the dressing separately. Just before serving, toss everything together for a fresh, vibrant dish that complements your Thanksgiving feast perfectly.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving is about coming together with family and friends, sharing good food and creating memories. By preparing certain dishes the night before, you’ll find yourself with more time to engage in the festivities rather than being tied to the kitchen. With these prepped foods, you’re well on your way to a joyful and bountiful Thanksgiving celebration—no getting off this train! Enjoy the planning, the cooking, and most importantly, the time spent with your loved ones. Happy Thanksgiving!

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