As a professional chef, I know all about prepping food. Cooks spend the hours before dinner service chopping, slicing and dicing. We even cook things like soups, sauces and side dishes in advance, reheating them to order so the meal makes its way to your table as quickly as possible. Proper preparation is the best way to keep yourself out of the weeds on the line, but that prep-in-advance principle isn’t reserved for restaurant food. You can prepare almost every single dish for your Thanksgiving feast ahead of time. We’ll show you how:
Turkey
If cooking and carving the turkey is the most stressful part of your Thanksgiving dinner, do it a day ahead! Roast the turkey using your favorite method (we’re grilling ours this year) and carve it on Wednesday. Cover it snugly with aluminum foil and pop it in the refrigerator, spooning some chicken broth or turkey drippings over the sliced meat to ensure it stays nice and moist. On Thanksgiving, remove the turkey from the fridge and reheat it in a 300° F oven for 45 minutes. You’ll still fill the kitchen with amazing roasted turkey aromas, fooling your guests into thinking you spent all day cooking.
Get our best turkey recipes here.
You can still prep the turkey in advance if you don’t want to miss out on carving it in front of your guests. Simply brine the turkey two to three days before Thanksgiving Day. The night before the big event, remove it from the brine and place it in a roasting pan—adding chopped onions, carrots and celery to the pan, if you like. The bird can sit uncovered in the refrigerator overnight, or you can cover it loosely with plastic wrap for 24 to 48 hours. Let the turkey come to room temperature before popping it in the oven.
Gravy
Think you have to make gravy on Thanksgiving Day? Think again! Make a gravy using chicken stock a day or two before Thanksgiving and store it in the refrigerator. After you’ve roasted the turkey, add a cup or so of white wine or chicken stock to the roasting pan and simmer it to release all those tasty turkey drippings. Then, add your prepared gravy to the pan, simmering the mixture until your gravy is thickened and warmed through. Check out more time-tested tips for cooking gravy.
Mashed Potatoes
Mashed potatoes are often the last thing I make on Thanksgiving Day because they taste lighter and fluffier if they’re mashed at the last minute. That said, you can absolutely do a few things to make it easier to get there. Peel and quarter your spuds a day or two before Thanksgiving and store them in water in the refrigerator. A few hours before dinner, boil them in salted water until they’re tender when pierced with a fork. Then, just let them hang out in that hot water until you’re ready to mash them using one of our foolproof mashed potato recipes.
Alternatively, you can mash the potatoes ahead of time and hold them warm in a slow cooker for up to four hours. Just make sure to stir the potatoes once an hour to keep them from burning to the bottom of the pan. When you’re ready to serve, drizzle in some extra melted butter or hot cream and whip them with a silicone spatula to return them to their fluffy glory.
Stuffing or Dressing
Stuffing is one of those dishes that always tastes better the day after Thanksgiving, so why not prep it a day early? Prepare your favorite stuffing recipe but only add half the liquid. Once the ingredients are in the baking dish, cover it with aluminum foil and let it sit overnight in the refrigerator. The next day, add the remaining liquid and bake it like normal.
Cranberry Sauce
Did you know that homemade cranberry sauce is good in the refrigerator for 10 to 14 days? That sounds like an excellent reason to get it out of the way well before the big feast. Make your cranberry sauce using fresh or frozen cranberries, let it cool slightly and store it covered in the refrigerator until you’re ready to eat.
Green Bean Casserole or Sweet Potato Casserole
Thanksgiving wouldn’t be complete without a few casserole sides. (These are hands-down the best side dish casserole recipes.) Unfortunately, these dishes usually compete with the turkey for oven space, so it’s a good idea to get them prepped early. You can bake these dishes the day before, preparing any crispy toppings but setting them aside in a separate container. When you’re ready to eat, remove the casserole from the refrigerator and let the dish come to room temperature to prevent it from cracking. Add the prepared toppings and cook until it’s warmed through.
Corn Pudding
Corn pudding really tastes best the day it’s baked, but that doesn’t mean you can’t prepare it in advance. In fact, an overnight rest in the refrigerator gives the flavors time to come together. Combine the ingredients and place them in the baking dish. Instead of popping it into the oven, cover it with plastic wrap and place it in the refrigerator. Let the casserole dish come up to room temperature before baking it on Thanksgiving Day. Once it’s baked, you can cover it with aluminum foil and keep it warm on the counter until you’re ready to serve.
Salads
If there’s one thing on the dinner table that shouldn’t be made ahead of time, it’s the salad. Greens wilt super fast when dressed with acidic dressing, so you’ll want to toss them just before serving. That said, you can absolutely prep the salad bowl ahead of time by chopping your vegetables and making the dressing. If it sounds like too much work, try making a salad that can be dressed ahead of time, like coleslaw or pasta salad. Give these great pasta salad recipes a try.
Dinner Rolls
Dinner rolls freeze exceptionally well, so there’s no reason you can’t make them as early as a week ahead of Thanksgiving. You can either freeze already baked rolls and warm them through in the oven or freeze the portioned-out dough and bake the rolls fresh. Try our Freeze-and-Bake Rolls recipe if you’re new to making homemade bread.
Pumpkin Pie or Pecan Pie
You have a few options when it comes to dessert. You can make an easy, no-bake pie well in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Or, if you want to go for the traditional pumpkin or pecan pie options, you can pre-bake your pie weeks in advance and pop them into the freezer. Thaw the pie overnight in the refrigerator before letting it come to room temperature on the counter. You can either serve them at room temp or heat them in the oven when you’re ready to serve.
Cook up a delicious feast this holiday season with our best Thanksgiving recipes.
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Roasted Citrus & Herb Turkey
Thanksgiving has never been the same since I tried this recipe. I have made it for the past three years, and it never fails to impress both in presentation and taste. This is a true showstopper! —Nancy M. Niemerg, Dieterich, Illinois
Old-Fashioned Dressing
Remember Grandma's delicious turkey dressing? Taste it again combined with flavorful herbs and crisp veggies in this family-favorite dressing. You'll love the fact you can make it in your slow cooker. —Sherry Vink, Lacombe, Alberta, Canada
Grandma's Cranberry Stuff
What could taste better than turkey and cranberry on Thanksgiving Day? My grandmother's classic recipe makes the best cranberry stuff to share with your family and friends this holiday. —Catherine Cassidy, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Sweet Potato Casserole
I got this recipe from a friend years ago, and I've used it a lot since! So many of my friends enjoyed it that I've sent the recipe all over the country. I make it primarily for Thanksgiving, or with dinner when I'm serving ham. —Eleanor Sherry, Highland Park, Illinois
Maple Sugar Pumpkin Pie
We make our own maple syrup, and that's what gives this pie its special taste. You might want to bake this for your Thanksgiving meal. —Martha Boudah, Essex Center, Vermont
Party Potatoes
These creamy tasty potatoes can be made the day before and stored in the refrigerator until you're ready to pop them in the oven (I often do that). The garlic powder and chives add zip, and the shredded cheese adds color. —Sharon Mensing, Greenfield, Iowa
Creamy Turkey Gravy
With my easy recipe, even someone who has never made homemade gravy before can be assured of success. —Phyllis Schmalz, Kansas City, Kansas.
Elegant Green Beans
Mushrooms and water chestnuts give new life to ordinary green bean casserole. Every time I make it for friends, I'm asked to share the recipe. —Linda Poe, Sandstone, Minnesota
Triple Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry fans will ask for this sauce again and again. It's loaded with their favorite fruit—in fresh, dried and juice form. Orange and allspice make it awesome. —Arlene Smulski, Lyons, Illinois
Angel Biscuits
I first received a sample of these light, wonderful angel biscuits, along with the recipe, from an elderly gentleman friend. I now bake them often as a Saturday-morning treat, served with butter and honey. They're perfect with sausage gravy, too! —Faye Hintz, Springfield, Missouri
Chocolate Caramel Turkey Legs
Mention turkey legs made of pretzels and chocolate, and the kids come running. Let them help by unwrapping caramels for this easy, no-bake treat. —Amy Lents, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Creamy Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes
With five different dairy products, you know this make-ahead mashed potato casserole is going to be super rich and, of course, delicious. It gets even better topped with onions and bacon! —JoAnn Koerkenmeier, Damiansville, Illinois
Chocolate Pecan Pie Bars
These yummy pecan bars start with a homemade pastry crust and pile on lots of semisweet chocolate. They’re perfect for a holiday bake sale or casual get-together.—Heather Biedler, Martinsburg, West Virginia
Barbecue Glazed Meatballs
Stock your freezer with these meatballs and you'll always have an appetizer on hand for unexpected guests. We even like to eat them as a main dish with rice or noodles on busy weeknights. —Anna Finley, Columbia, Missouri
Cranberry Waldorf Salad
Cranberries grow in the coastal area about 50 miles from our home. When they become available, I always make this creamy salad. —Faye Huff, Longview, Washington
Corn Pudding
Jiffy mix and canned corn make this Southern corn pudding casserole a snap to prepare. Now this is real comfort food! —P. Lauren Fay-Neri, Syracuse, New York
Roasted Apple Salad with Spicy Maple-Cider Vinaigrette
We bought loads of apples and needed to use them. To help the flavors come alive, I roasted the apples and tossed them with a sweet dressing. —Janice Elder, Charlotte, North Carolina
Cranberry-Orange Roasted Turkey
You'll have an elegant centerpiece to your meal with this tender, juicy turkey. The cranberry makes it so good. It has such a wonderful aroma and flavor. —Kara de la Vega, Santa Rosa, California
Holiday Almond Tassies
I make so many of these fancy tassies, I use up a 7-pound container of almond paste every year! They’re one of my family’s holiday favorites. —Donna Westhouse, Dorr, Michigan
Porcini Mac & Cheese
This recipe was inspired by a mushroom mac and cheese I had at a local restaurant. I incorporated the fall flavor of a pumpkin ale, and it turned out better than the original.—Laura Davis, Pocomoke City, Maryland
Broccoli & Chive-Stuffed Mini Peppers
There's plenty of both crunch and cream in these party appetizers. Fresh chives help them really stand out. —Jean McKenzie, Vancouver, Washington
Potato Pumpkin Mash
No more plain white mashed potatoes for us! I swirl fresh pumpkin into potatoes for a little extra holiday color. — Michelle Medley, Dallas, Texas
Cranberry-Brie Tartlets
My family hosts a holiday drop-in each year, and that's where these crescent tartlets made their first appearance. They're easy to make, but look like a gourmet treat. —Cindy Davis, Bonita Springs, Florida
Sweet Potato & Chickpea Salad
Take this colorful dish to the buffet at a family gathering, or enjoy it as a great meal all by itself. —Brenda Gleason, Hartland, Wisconsin
Blue-Ribbon Apple Pie
This pie is special to me because I won a blue ribbon for it at the local fair and was able to compete at the state farm show. —Collette Gaugler, Fogelsville, Pennsylvania
Sweet Potato Tortellini with Hazelnut Sauce
Using wonton wrappers instead of fresh pasta dough makes homemade tortellini easy to prepare. For more formal dinners, this makes an impressive vegetarian entree. —Charlene Chambers, Ormond Beach, Florida
Turkey Soup
My daughter got this recipe from her husband's mother. As in many households, our turkey gets picked over for a few days after the holidays. This soup is especially good on cold winter nights when it's snowing...which happens a lot where I live! —Carol Brethauer, Denver, Colorado
Best-Ever Stuffed Mushrooms
At party time, I bring out a platter of my easy stuffed mushrooms. I like to make mine with reduced-fat sausage, but you can use regular for an indulgent treat. —Debby Beard, Eagle, Colorado
Mom's Sweet Potato Bake
Mom loves sweet potatoes and fixed them often in this creamy, comforting baked sweet potato casserole. With its nutty topping, this side dish could almost serve as a dessert. It's a yummy treat! —Sandi Pichon, Memphis, Tennessee
Slow Cooker Turkey Breast with Gravy
This quick-prep recipe lets you feast on turkey at any time of year. We save the rich broth for gravy, noodles and soup making. —Joyce Hough, Annapolis, Maryland
Pumpkin Gingersnap Parfaits
Enjoy these lovely, light parfaits as an unforgettable finale to your holiday feast. The spiced rum adds a fun new flavor to the mix. —Lorri Hazen, Twin Falls, Idaho
Sweet Potato Cheesecake Bars
Your whole house will be filled with the aroma of pumpkin spice when you bake these wonderful sweet potato cheesecake bars. They look complicated but are so easy, you can whip up a batch anytime. —Nancy Whitford, Edwards, New York
Wild Rice Stuffing
Since trying this stuffing recipe from my sister, I haven't made any other kind. It's so moist and tasty. When a big bowlful starts circulating around the table, happy holiday smiles get even bigger! —Connie Olson, Green River, Wyoming
Cranberry Orange Mimosas
Mimosas are just so elegant for Sunday brunch. My recipe uses tart cranberries to balance the sweetness of champagne and orange juice. —Shannon Stephens, Lake in the Hills, Illinois
Gobbler Cakes
I watched a chef make crab cakes and decided to try it with turkey and stuffing. Now the kids request them year-round, so I buy cooked turkey. —Suzee Krebs, Brielle, New Jersey
Orange Spice Carrots
To get my son to eat veggies, I mix and match flavors and spices. My slow cooker orange carrots with cinnamon won him over. —Christina Addison, Blanchester, Ohio
Pistachio Brownie Toffee Bars
These coveted brownie bars are homey and chocolaty awesome. They've been a sought-after staple on Christmas cookie trays for years. —Troy Shaw, Warrenton, Oregon
Ginger-Streusel Pumpkin Pie
I love to bake and have spent a lot of time making goodies for my family and friends. The streusel topping gives this pie a special touch your family will love. —Sonia Parvu, Sherrill, New York
Mushroom Pastry Tarts
Putting anything on puff pastry crust makes it special, but these mushrooms taste so good that combining the two makes an unforgettable dish. —Susan Scarborough, Fernandina Beach, Florida
Easy Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie does not have to be difficult to make. This recipe has a wonderful taste and will be a hit at your holiday meal. —Marty Rummel, Trout Lake, Washington
Spinach Dip-Stuffed Mushrooms
I use a melon baller to hollow out the mushroom caps and make them easier to stuff. The apps fit neatly into muffin tins or a deviled egg tray for traveling. —Ashley Pierce, Brantford, Ontario
Cinnamon-Sugar Sweet Potato Pastries
We always have leftover mashed sweet potatoes after our Thanksgiving feast. I take what’s left to make an indulgent filling for sweet potato empanadas. Convenient crescent roll dough makes this recipe easy as pie. —Sarah Vasques, Milford, New Hampshire
Crab Crescent Triangles
When some friends who love crab were planning a party, I created this recipe for them. The comforting baked bundles wrap up a cheesy seafood filling in convenient crescent roll dough. —Noelle Myers, Grand Forks, North Dakota
Minestrone with Turkey
I remember my mom making this soup; now I make it for my kids as often as I can. It's a good way to use up leftover vegetables. Sometimes I add a can of rinsed and drained kidney or garbanzo beans. —Angela Goodman, Kaneohe, Hawaii
Holiday Crown Pork Roast
Crown roast makes a regal Christmas dinner. Flavored with rosemary, sage and thyme, it’s elegant and simple, a real blessing during the hectic holidays. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
Coffee Maple Spritz
I like spritz cookies because they're easier to make than rolled cutouts but I can still be creative with different shapes and sizes. Feel free to substitute vanilla or rum extract for the maple flavoring. —Dierdre Cox, Kansas City, Missouri
Cranberry White Chocolate Chunk Cheesecake
My New York-style cheesecake has tart cranberries, white chocolate chunks and a smidge of yuletide red. It's an impressive addition to holiday dessert tables. —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida
Slow Cooker Caramel Apple Cider
Spiced with cinnamon sticks, allspice and caramel, this warm-you-up sipper will chase away winter's chill. Serve brimming mugs alongside a platter of festive cookies at your next holiday gathering. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Gorgonzola & Cranberry Cheese Ball
A cheese ball is a classic appetizer to take to any gathering, and it's so easy to make. This version, studded with tangy dried cranberries, is a holiday hit. —Kathy Hahn, Pollock Pines, California
Marinated Thanksgiving Turkey
My family enjoys this Thanksgiving turkey because it cooks up tender, tasty and golden brown. Build up flavor by marinating the meat, then grill it to add a tempting barbecued flavor. —Ken Churches, Kailua-Kona, Hawaii
Honey-Thyme Butternut Squash
This golden, honey-sweetened squash is just as hearty and comforting as your favorite potato dish. With its bright color, it makes an attractive side for special autumn meals. —Bianca Noiseux, Bristol, Connecticut
Crunchy Spinach Casserole
Our holidays would not be the same without this family tradition. My mother made it every Thanksgiving when I was growing up; now I make it every Christmas as well, and my children and grandchildren absolutely love it! We triple the recipe because the kids can't get enough. —Sharon Scaletta, Johnstown, Pennsylvania
Crispy Mashed Potato Cakes
I love finding ways to use holiday leftovers. These potato cakes use the mashed potatoes, stuffing and breadcrumbs. To go all out, add meat and cheese. —Jeri Psikal, Norman, Oklahoma
Bacon, Cheddar and Swiss Cheese Ball
When it’s time for a party, everyone always requests this ultimate cheese ball—it’s such an impressive appetizer. And if you’re a party guest, it makes a fabulous gift for your hosts.—Sue Franklin, Lake St. Louis, Missouri
Amber's Sourdough Stuffing
All my kids and grandkids absolutely love this sourdough stuffing, but especially my daughter-in-law, Amber. I usually make a big batch at Thanksgiving so I will have leftovers for my husband. But this recipe is perfect for two. —Kathy Katz, Ocala, Florida
Coconut-Bourbon Sweet Potatoes
What is it about sweet potatoes that unnerve some people? For those who firmly state they hate a yam because of the color or texture, the rich addition of coconut, bourbon and spices might just win them over. —Rebecca Anderson, Driftwood, Texas
Foolproof Gravy
Make your Thanksgiving or other special-occasion dinner easy with this can't-miss recipe. Use the drippings from your roasted turkey, and the gravy is done in just 20 minutes. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
No-Bake Chocolate-Pecan Tartlets
At the last minute, I frantically came up with this treat for a holiday tea. The tartlets were quickly gobbled up. Now, I make them for our annual Teacher Taster's Choice and special family gatherings. —Joy Johnson, Culbertson, Montana
Billie's Southern Sweet Potato Cake
I made sweet potato cakes for my kids when they were younger and they told me in their little voices, "Mommy, you're the best baker." Little did they know that was Mommy's first attempt at homemade cake! —Billie Williams-Henderson, Bowie, Maryland
Caramel-Pecan Apple Pie
You'll love the smell in your kitchen—and the smiles on everybody's faces—when you make this scrumptious caramel apple pie recipe. It takes me back home to Virginia and being at my granny's table. —Jean Castro, Phoenix, Arizona
Herbed Turkey Breast
Like many of you, I always serve turkey for our family's Thanksgiving meal. But instead of roasting a whole bird, I opt for a turkey breast since most of us prefer white meat. The herb butter basting sauce keeps it so moist, and it's easy to carve. —Ruby Williams, Bogalusa, Louisiana
Cranberry Jalapeno Cheese Spread
This easy spread is based on several different relishes and spreads I've tasted or made before. I love the sweet and spicy combination of flavors. —Diane Nemitz, Ludington, Michigan
Honey Pecan Pie
Looking for a sweet ending to a special meal? This attractive pecan pie is bound to please with its traditional filling and honey-glazed pecans. —Cathy Hudak, Wadsworth, Ohio
Roasted Butternut Squash Panzanella
Squash was a hard sell with our family until I paired it with pumpkin seeds, cranberries and horseradish. Now they love it! —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut
Spiced Toffee Cookies
I bake these cookies for family gatherings because my crowd likes cookies thin and chewy with a crispy exterior. The toffee bits make a happy surprise.—Gloria Bradley, Naperville, Illinois
Cheddar Ham Cups
When a college classmate and I threw a party for our professor, a friend contributed these savory appetizers. Everyone in the class requested the recipe before the party was done. Try the cups with chicken instead of ham if you'd like. -Brandi Ladner Gulfport, Mississippi
Baked Cranberry Meatballs
You’ve never seen meatballs like these before, with cranberries, sauerkraut and chili sauce adding incredible color and irresistible tang. You’ll love the heavenly aroma, too. —Lisa Potter, Camp Douglas, Wisconsin
Butternut Squash Oven Risotto
Squash and beer make my risotto different and delicious. Plus, cooking it in the oven cuts down on hands-on time making it. Win-win. —Katie Ferrier Gage, Houston, TX
Cranberry Cornmeal Dressing
This moist dressing is perfect when paired with poultry or even pork. The sweet-tart flavor of the dried cranberries really complements the dish's turkey sausage. —Corinne Portteus, Albuquerque, New Mexico
Roasted Green Beans with Lemon & Walnuts
I first tasted roasted green beans in a Chinese restaurant and fell in love with the texture and flavor. This is my Americanized version and it's always a big hit at our holiday table. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Sweet Potato, Pear, and Fig Crisp
My unusual fruit crisp celebrates the flavors of the holidays. Offer it as a side, or add ice cream to make it a standout dessert. —Deanna McDonald, Kalamazoo, Michigan
Maple-Sage Brined Turkey
When the leaves start turning, it’s turkey time at our house. We use maple-sage brine to help brown the bird and make the meat incredibly juicy. —Kim Forni, Laconia, New Hampshire
Gobble-Up Strata
I always look forward to making strata after Thanksgiving. We invite our neighbors, and they think it’s neat that I prepare another whole meal. — Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin
Citrus Cranberry Pie
To showcase abundant fall cranberries, make this beautiful lattice-topped pie. A dollop of orange cream complements the slightly tart flavor. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen
Roasted Cauliflower & Brussels Sprouts with Bacon
This deeply delicious recipe is a surefire way to get my husband to enjoy Brussels sprouts. Between the roasted flavor of the veggies and smoky, crisp bacon, it will convert even the pickiest eater. —Lisa Speer, Palm Beach, Florida
Calzone Pinwheels
Once you try these mini-sized calzones, you may never go back to the large ones. Not only do these pretty bites take advantage of convenient refrigerator crescent rolls, but they can be made ahead and popped in the oven right before company arrives. No one can eat just one and people love the cheesy, fresh taste! —Lisa Smith, Bryan, Ohio
Cranberry Pumpkin Bread
Put leftover cranberries and pumpkin to great use in this moist quick bread. It’s very good with my "secondhand turkey" casserole for an after-Thanksgiving meal. —Dixie Terry, Goreville, Illinois
Cranberry Waldorf Gelatin
We enjoy this easy-to-make salad in the fall when apples are in season. Their crisp freshness adds so much to a favorite dish. — Debbie Short, Carlisle, Iowa
Apple Mashed Potatoes
I love potatoes…especially mashed. When I came up with this combination, it was declared a winner. I serve this as a side dish when I have pork as an entree, but it's great with any meat. —Rebecca Page, Pensacola, Florida
Hand-Held Apple Pies
When I was in high school, my best friend's mother baked this mini apple pie recipe every year. I was thrilled when she shared it with me—I finally felt like an adult! —Katie Ferrier, Houston, Texas
Orange-Glazed Pork Loin
This is one of the best pork recipes I've ever tried. My family looks forward to this roast for dinner, and guests always want the recipe. The flavorful rub and a glaze sparked with orange juice are also outstanding on pork chops. —Lynnette Miete, Alna, Maine
Cinnamon Apple Cheesecake
An attractive topping of cinnamon-spiced apple slices and a homemade oat-and-walnut crust make this creamy dessert a definite showstopper. —Emily Ann Young, Edmond, Oklahoma
Grandma Pietz's Cranberry Cake Pudding
For generations, our family has handed down this cake recipe starring cranberries. Simple and unusual, it remains a treasured family heirloom. —Lisa Potter, Camp Douglas, Wisconsin
Orange-Glazed Carrots, Onions & Radishes
Carrots and radishes give color and crunch to this sweet, spicy side. We never have leftovers. If you make it ahead, reheat it and add the walnuts just before serving. —Thomas Faglon, Somerset, New Jersey
Pumpkin Dessert
"When we bake these layered squares, our kitchen smells wonderful," writes Ruth Chiarenzsa from her home in La Vale, Maryland. "They are favorites during the fall season, and they make a great finish to any meal. As a matter of fact, they never last for very long in our house!"
Marmalade Candied Carrots
My favorite way to make baby carrots is to steam them, then drizzle with an orangey glaze that makes them candy-sweet. —Heather Clemmons, Supply, North Carolina
Lemony Turkey Rice Soup
While growing up in Texas, I spent a lot of time helping my grandma cook. Lemon and cilantro add a deliciously different twist to turkey soup. —Margarita Cuellar, East Chicago, Indiana
Pecan Pie Bars
These pecan pie bars are rich and delicious - just like pecan pie! They're perfect for taking to potlucks and other gatherings...I always come home with an empty pan. These Kentucky Derby pecan pie bars are the perfect snack while watching the races. —Carolyn Custer, Clifton Park, New York
Taste-of-Fall Salad
My parents stayed with me at a friend's beautiful ranch for the holidays and I made them this great salad. It turned into every night's first course. —Kristin Kossak, Bozeman, Montana
Make-Ahead Turkey and Gravy
Ease the holiday time crunch with a make-ahead turkey recipe that's ready to serve when you are. It's a great choice for potlucks, too. —Marie Parker, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Maple-Glazed Acorn Squash
With a maple syrup and brown sugar glaze, this squash becomes pleasantly sweet. This is comfort food—easy to prepare and a tasty pairing with a pork entree. —Nancy Mueller, Menomonee Falls, Wisconsin
Orange Gelatin Pretzel Salad
Salty pretzels pair nicely with the sweet fruit in this refreshing layered salad. It’s a family favorite that is a slam-dunk at potlucks. —Peggy Boyd, Northport, Alabama
Potato Soup
I decided to add some character to a basic potato chowder by adding roasted red peppers. The extra flavor gives a deliciously unique twist to an otherwise ordinary soup.—Mary Shivers, Ada, Oklahoma
Pumpkin Torte
This beautiful layered cake has a creamy filling with a mild pumpkin flavor and a little spice. It's quick and always turns out so well. The nuts and caramel topping add a nice finishing touch. —Trixie Fisher, Piqua, Ohio
Holiday Salsa
When we offer this cream-cheesy salsa of fresh cranberries, cilantro and a little jalapeno kick, everyone hovers around the serving dish until it’s scraped clean. —Shelly Pattison, Lubbock, Texas
Corn Stuffing Balls
My mom had many "winning" recipes, and this was one of our family's favorites. I can still picture these Corn Stuffing Balls encircling the large meat platter piled high with one of her delicious entrees. —Audrey Groe, Lake Mills, Iowa
Raisin Pecan Pie
I remember my Grandmother Voltie and Great-Aunt Ophelia making this southern-style pie for Thanksgiving. It was always one of the many cakes and pies lined up for dessert. —Angie Price, Bradford, Tennessee
Bacon Spinach Salad
Even our kids-who normally don't care for spinach-can't resist this salad with its rich dressing and crumbled bacon. Of course, you can use other greens instead of spinach. —Gretchen Kuipers, Platte, South Dakota
Mushroom & Leek Pie
In the Pacific Northwest, we make a savory pie with mushrooms and leeks. We prefer chanterelle, but baby portobello or oyster mushrooms will also delight your diners. —Vickie Woods, Salem, Oregon
Butternut & Portobello Lasagna
Lasagna gets fresh flavor and color when you make it with roasted butternut squash, portobello mushrooms, basil and spinach. We feast on this. —Edward and Danielle Walker, Traverse City, Michigan
Crunchy Broccoli Salad
Growing up, I never liked broccoli, but I'm hooked on this salad's light, sweet taste. It gives broccoli a whole new look and personality. —Jessica Conrey, Cedar Rapids, Iowa
Shrimp Lover Squares
At our house, these delicious shrimp squares are a must during family movie and game nights. —Ardyce Piehl, Poynette, Wisconsin
Pumpkin Bars
Pumpkin bars with cream cheese frosting are the ultimate fall treat. But my family likes them so much, they ask me to make them all year long! —Brenda Keller, Andalusia, Alabama
Autumn Pumpkin Cupcakes
These little pumpkin cupcakes are capped with cream cheese frosting and drizzled with a homemade salted caramel sauce. I like to make the caramel sauce in advance and keep it in the fridge till dessert. —Wendy Rusch, Trego, Wisconsin
Potluck German Apple Cake
My mother made this German apple cake for my brothers and me when we were kids. It's an excellent choice for potlucks any time of year. —Edie DeSpain, Logan, Utah
Thanksgiving Stuffed Turkey
I've tried fancy stuffing recipes for our holiday bird, but none hits the spot like my mother's simple mixture of bread, eggs and caramelized vegetables. Have it on any holiday. —Lily Julow, Lawrenceville, Georgia
Cheesy Corn Spoon Bread
Homey and comforting, this custard-like side dish is a much-requested recipe at potlucks and holiday dinners. The jalapeno pepper adds just the right bite. Second helpings of this tasty casserole are common—leftovers aren't. —Katherine Franklin, Carbondale, Illinois
Cranberry Pineapple Salad
Impress dinner guests with this delightfully different take on traditional cranberry sauce. The nuts add a tasty crunch. —Dorothy Angley, Carver, Massachusetts
Never-Fail Scalloped Potatoes
Take the chill off any blustery day and make something special to accompany meaty entrees. This is the best scalloped potatoes recipe ever, and my family loves when I serve it. —Agnes Ward, Stratford, Ontario
Mushroom Asparagus Quiche
Loads of asparagus pieces add color and flavor to this hearty, creamy quiche. And its easy crescent roll crust means you'll have dinner ready in a snap! —Sharon A. Fujita, Fontana, California
Grilled Rosemary Pork Roast
When the family's coming or we're expecting guests for dinner, I often serve this flavorful grilled pork roast—and it's always a winner! Chopped apple and sweet honey complement the rosemary and garlic. —Christine Wilson Sellersville, Pennsylvania
Pumpkin Ice Cream Roll
This wonderfully light dessert is our standby at Thanksgiving and Christmas. The hint of pumpkin and the refreshing ice cream make a most delicious after-dinner treat. —Gayle Lewis, Yucaipa, California
Make-Ahead Butterhorns
Mom loved to make these lightly sweet, golden rolls. They're beautiful and impressive and have a homemade taste that makes them memorable. —Bernice Morris, Marshfield, Missouri
Pecan-Cornbread Dressing
Plenty of pecans and bacon give this stuffing a unique flavor— while using a packaged mix cuts down on the preparation time. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee Wisconsin
Gingersnap Rum Apple Crisp
My mother makes incredible apple crisp, and I've added a few twists of my own. We think it's best warm with vanilla ice cream. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada
Spice Cookies with Pumpkin Dip
My husband and two kids are sure to eat the first dozen of these cookies, warm from the oven, before the next tray is even done. A co-worker gave me the recipe for the pumpkin dip, which everyone loves with the cookies. —Kelly McNeal, Derby, Kansas
Candy Bar Fudge
My manager at work, who knows I like to try new treat recipes, shared this one with me. I've made this chewy and chocolaty fudge many times since. Packed with nuts and caramel, it's like a candy bar. Everyone who's tried it loves it. —Lois Freeman, Oxford, Michigan
Honey Cornbread
It's a pleasure to serve this moist cornbread to family and guests. Honey gives it a slightly sweet taste. Most people find it's difficult to eat just one piece. -Adeline Piscitelli, Sayreville, New Jersey
Beans 'n' Caramelized Onions
Brown sugar, bacon and cider vinegar season this simple side. I often make it for family and friends, and it never fails to please!—Jill Heatwole, Pittsville, Maryland
Cranberry Bundt Cake
Cranberry sauce gives this moist cake its pretty swirled look. Serve slices for dessert after dinner or as coffee cake for bunch. —Lucile Cline, Wichita, Kansas
Cranberry Chutney
You can serve this chunky chutney over cream cheese or Brie with crackers, or as a condiment with roast pork or poultry. Either way, its slightly tart flavor and deep red hue lend a festive flair to the table. —Karyn Gordon, Rockledge, Florida
Baked Spinach Dip Loaf
Any round loaf works as a serving bowl for this cream-cheesy dip, with spinach, cheddar, water chestnuts and, yes, bacon. Scoop the dip with the extra bread and veggies—then eat the bowl! —Frieda Meding, Trochu, Alberta
Sugar-and-Spice Candied Nuts
Here’s a wonderful snack to have on hand for entertaining, gift-giving or just munching anytime. With a sweet-spicy coating, the crunchy mixed nuts are hard to resist.—Tonya Burkhard, David, Illinois
Festive Three-Grain Salad
Wholesome ingredients and a festive appearance make this colorful side one of my holiday staples. Plus, I can assemble it the night before and store it in the refrigerator. —Teri Kreyche, Tustin, California
Deep-Dish Apple Pie
This recipe is a winner! The crust is so flaky and the filling is sure to please everyone. —Salem Cross Inn, West Brookfield, Massachusetts
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Lindsay D. Mattison