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Tired of being stuck in the kitchen for most of the holidays? If you want more time to have fun with your family and friends, you might find these make-ahead holiday dishes handy to have up your sleeve! Breeze easily through the festive season with everything from make-ahead appetizers to desserts, freeing you up to spend time with your loved ones rather than being stuck over a hot stove for hours. Forget about last-minute stress and get ready to relax and enjoy the holidays with the best make-ahead dishes.

Christmas Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs on a wooden platter.
Christmas Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Xoxo Bella.

Not only are Christmas deviled eggs a wonderful holiday appetizer, but they are sure to disappear fast if you serve them at a Christmas party. Christmas deviled eggs recipes vary but this one is a favourite of mine. Everything from the Christmas colors to the fresh herbs, lemon and garlic in the filling makes these Christmas appetizers truly special. And the recipe is wide open to interpretation so you can tweak the filling in this Yuletide appetizer however you want.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Deviled Eggs

Cranberry Jello Salad With Mandarins and Pineapple

Cranberry jello salad casserole on two plates with a fork.
Cranberry Jello Salad With Mandarins and Pineapple. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

If you’re planning your Thanksgiving dinner spread, don’t forget the homemade cranberry jello salad with pineapple and oranges! This recipe is made with jello, giving it a different consistency, and the fruity taste goes perfectly with your Thanksgiving turkey!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Jello Salad With Mandarins and Pineapple

Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizer

Food blogger, Bella Bucchiotti of xoxoBella, shares a recipe for a pesto puff pastry Christmas tree appetizer. Add this puff pastry recipe to your list of Christmas appetizers!
Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizer. Photo credit: xoxoBella

It’s never too early to think about new recipes for Christmas or an impressive centerpiece for the occasion. A homemade pesto puff pastry Christmas tree appetizer is definitely worth considering. This puff pastry recipe is in the shape of a Christmas tree, so it’s definitely a fitting, festive choice. These puff pastry tree appys are a delicious recipe for the holiday season and easy to make with store-bought puff pastry.
Get the Recipe: Pesto Puff Pastry Christmas Tree Appetizer

Smoked Turkey Breast

Overhead view of a smoked turkey breast being sliced on a cutting board.
Smoked Turkey Breast. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This smoked turkey breast recipe is perfect for holiday dinners, and learning how to smoke it over wood chips or pellets will make you a pro. With juicy and flavorful results, your family will love it, so fire up your Traeger grill or pellet smoker!
Recipe here: Smoked Turkey Breast

Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage And Cranberry Stuffing

Discover the ultimate stuffing recipe enhanced with delicious cranberries, all baked in a mouthwatering casserole dish. This is one of the best stuffing recipes.
Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage And Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This air fryer whiskey, sausage, and cranberry stuffing is so delicious. And baking stuffing in an air fryer means you can fit other dishes in the oven or on the stove. It is the perfect stuffing for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Did you know you could make a bourbon or whiskey stuffing with pork sausage recipe in your air fryer? Well, you can, and it’s so good!
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Whiskey, Sausage And Cranberry Stuffing

Easy Italian Christmas Zuccotto Cake

An Italian Christmas pudding cake on a white plate in front of a Christmas tree.
Easy Italian Christmas Zuccotto Cake. Photo credit: xoxobella

Traditional Italian desserts like this easy Italian Christmas zuccotto cake are the perfect treat for after dinner. This beautiful Italian dessert is made with pound loaf (pound cake), mascarpone cheese, chocolate, and more. There are only nine ingredients in this simple Italian liqueur cake and the multicolour sprinkles give it a fun look.
Get the Recipe: Easy Italian Christmas Zuccotto Cake

Smoked Gouda Mac And Cheese With Pancetta

Macaroni and cheese served in bowls at a rustic wooden table, perfect for pub and bar food enthusiasts.
Smoked Gouda Mac and Cheese with Pancetta. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Take standard mac and cheese to inspiring new heights with this smoked gouda mac and cheese with pancetta recipe. Elbow noodles pair up with gouda cheese, white cheddar, garlic, pancetta or bacon, shallots, and more, to create this seriously impressive dish. You can enjoy this grown up mac and cheese as a side dish or as the main dish and I guarantee second helpings and clean plates!
Get the Recipe: Smoked Gouda Mac And Cheese With Pancetta

Marinated Olives with Feta

A dish with olives, tofu and crackers.
Marinated Olives with Feta. Photo credit: xoxoBella

You only need seven different ingredients to prepare this delicious marinated olives and feta cheese appetizer or snack. Expect a riot of soft and pleasing Mediterranean flavours in every mouthful. Everything in there is tasty from the green and kalamata olives to the creamy feta, salty caperberries, and hints of garlic, red pepper flakes and extra virgin olive oil. If you love Greek appetizers, this might become your next favourite.
Get the Recipe: Marinated Olives with Feta

Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Carrots in a white bowl with parmesan cheese, perfect as a side dish for turkey.
Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Sheet pan parmesan roasted carrots with garlic make a delicious side dish for all kinds of entrees. The natural sweetness of carrots is showcased by the creamy, salty parmesan cheese and buttery, as well as hints of garlic, rosemary and fresh parsley. Everyone at the dinner table will love crispy parmesan carrots. Their sweetness appeals to the younger members of the family and it’s a great way to get them to eat cooked carrots.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Garlic Parmesan Roasted Carrots

Air Fryer Bacon Loaded Cornbread Pudding

A person is holding a spoonful of cornbread dip made with Jiffy cornbread mix.
Air Fryer Bacon Loaded Cornbread Pudding. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Bacon loaded cornbread pudding pairs with everything from chicken to ham or steaks. It’s a wonderful potluck dish and this is the best corn casserole I’ve made. It’s easy to put together this air fryer cornbread pudding made with Jiffy cornbread mix. This bacon corn casserole will become a family dinner tradition.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Bacon Loaded Cornbread Pudding

Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak

Cooking flank steak is a great idea for the holidays. This extra-special recipe for flank steak includes a rich, creamy filling plus cranberries for a contrasting flavour.
Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

How does cranberry cream cheese stuffed flank steak sound as a Christmas dinner dish? Doesn’t the sound of this recipe make your mouth begin to water? It’s such a great recipe for stuffed flank steak and works well as a New Year, Thanksgiving or Christmas steak recipe when you want something both fancy and tasty.
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Cream Cheese Stuffed Flank Steak

Antipasto Christmas Tree

Antipasto Christmas tree appetizer.
Antipasto Christmas Tree. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

It’s never too early to start planning recipes for your Christmas dinner and festive appetizers during the holiday season (or even just before!) This antipasto tree is an Italian take on an antipasto platter, boasting tomatoes, little cheese balls, green olives, and more. It’s worth making several of these because, as well as being a delicious appetizer, it makes a gorgeous and edible table centerpiece.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Christmas Tree

Slow Cooker Overnight Breakfast Casserole

A slice of breakfast casserole on a plate.
Overnight Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

It’s a leftover ham and egg bake with vegetables, cheese, hash browns, and more – a warming dish with plenty of amazing flavours.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Overnight Breakfast Casserole

Italian Rainbow Cookies

Neapolitan Christmas cookie bars on a white plate.
Italian Rainbow Cookies. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

These Italian-American cookies are prepared by layering almond cake with raspberry jelly and adding a sweet chocolate glaze. They’re gorgeous to look at and even better to eat!
Get the Recipe: Italian Rainbow Cookies

One Pot Gouda And Cream Cheese Corn

An appetizing corn on the cob in a white dish, perfect for Thanksgiving or a potluck gathering.
One Pot Gouda And Cream Cheese Corn. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

One pot gouda and cream cheese corn is an extra-special and very delicious side dish. It’s an amazing holiday corn recipe and pairs nicely with any kind of meat you want to cook. The combination of gouda, cream cheese and heavy cream gives this cheesy corn casserole recipe a rich taste and it’s a cozy, comforting side dish the whole family will love.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Gouda And Cream Cheese Corn

Spiked Pineapple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce

Delicious cranberry sauce in a mason jar, perfect for holiday recipes. This is one of the best cranberry sauce recipes.
Spiked Pineapple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Spiked pineapple bourbon cranberry sauce perfectly accompanies a brie and cranberry wreath. Cranberry is the star flavor in this cranberry bourbon relish. The sweetness of pineapple, maple syrup, and brown sugar contrasts with the tangy cranberry flavor and kick of bourbon. If you’re a cranberry fan, make this spiked cranberry sauce recipe!
Get the Recipe: Spiked Pineapple Bourbon Cranberry Sauce

Tiramisu Cheesecake Mini Trifles

Two glasses of delicious ice cream in front of a beautifully decorated Christmas tree.
Tiramisu Cheesecake Mini Trifles. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

A delicious dessert for chocolate lovers, these individual tiramisu cheesecake mini trifles are indulgent and yummy. They’re not hard to prepare and you don’t need many different ingredients either.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Cheesecake Mini Trifles

Antipasto Skewers

Antipasto skewers on a platter.
Antipasto Skewers. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Antipasto skewers, or antipasto kabobs, make great party food. Easy to make in advance, they are an easy party appetizer idea that’s ideal for parties, picnics, game day, BBQs, road trips, tailgating and gatherings, among others. This crowd-pleasing antipasto bite appetizer is served on wooden skewers and made with classic Italian flavours.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Make Ahead Breakfast Burrito Casserole

A slice of make ahead breakfast casserole on a plate.
Make Ahead Breakfast Burrito Casserole. Photo credit: Haute And Healthy Living.

Set your mornings up for success with this delicious breakfast burrito casserole! It’s loaded with protein and filling veggies to satisfy your whole family. It’s a great make-ahead breakfast that can be reheated in just a few minutes in the microwave. Breakfast burritos are a wonderful way to start the day, but they require far more effort than popping this overnight breakfast burrito casserole into the microwave on a busy morning.
Get the Recipe: Make Ahead Breakfast Burrito Casserole

Christmas Cheese Ball Wreath

A festive wreath made of pine cones and sprigs of sage.
Christmas Cheese Ball Wreath. Photo credit: Averie Cooks.

A delectable cheese ball mixture rolled in festive and colorful toppings and arranged into a wreath! A show-stopping presentation of wonderful cheese bites for your holiday parties and entertaining tables! EASY to make and can be made IN ADVANCE! No one can resist the allure of cheese!
Get the Recipe: Christmas Cheese Ball Wreath

Layered Christmas Jello

A plate of colorful jelly cake, perfect for make ahead holiday dishes.
Layered Christmas Jello. Photo credit: The Cookin Chicks.

This Layered Christmas Jello is a tried and true family favorite that is festive, delicious, and makes the perfect addition to any Holiday meal! Also called Finger Jello, this classic Jello recipe is one that can be altered to fit any occasion throughout the year. Easy to make ahead of time– save time and prepare this one or two days before needed
Get the Recipe: Layered Christmas Jello

Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs (Old-Fashioned Recipe)

A make-ahead holiday treat, indulge in a plate of creamy ice cream adorned with crunchy nuts and drizzled caramel sauce.
Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs (Old-Fashioned Recipe). Photo credit: This Silly Girl’s Kitchen.

I have a special treat for you – a recipe that has been a favorite in my family for years, Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs! With a nougat center, coated in caramel, and rolled in pecans, you can’t get enough. You can make these ahead of time for a holiday party or any other gathering, making it a stress-free dessert that’s ready to serve when you need it.
Get the Recipe: Grandma’s Caramel Pecan Logs (Old-Fashioned Recipe)

Creamy Baked Mashed Potatoes

A make ahead holiday dish - a white bowl filled with a casserole with bacon and green onions.
Creamy Baked Mashed Potatoes (make-ahead). Photo credit: Chew Out Loud.

Creamy Baked Mashed Potatoes are the perfect side dish for any meal. It’s both weeknight-friendly and holiday-worthy. It can be prepared a day ahead. We make mashed potatoes from scratch because everything’s better from scratch, but it’s time consuming trying to get it done along with the main coarse and other sides. That’s why these mashed potatoes are boss. Not to mention how creamy, tasty, and just outrageously yummy it is.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Baked Mashed Potatoes

Christmas Tradition: Rolled Egg Salad Appetizers

A roll of bread with holly leaves on a plate.
Christmas Tradition: Rolled Egg Salad Appetizers. Photo credit: The Food Olic.

These Retro Egg Salad Appetizers are fantastic on the table for Christmas or any celebration and are always a ‘hit’ for the little ones! An egg salad spread made with relish, scallions, mayonnaise, and the festive sweet pickle and pepper in the center.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tradition: Rolled Egg Salad Appetizers

Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Make a festive holiday dish by preparing a plate of bread pudding infused with the flavors of sweet pomegranate and tangy oranges. This delightful treat can be made ahead of time, allowing you to
Eggnog French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Fit Mama Real Food.

This eggnog French toast casserole is dairy free, sweetened naturally with maple syrup, and easy to make in advance! Made with less than 10 ingredients, this healthy breakfast bake uses cubed sprouted grain bread and eggnog flavored non-dairy milk for a crowd-pleasing dish! Great for special occasions or an everyday make ahead meal.
Get the Recipe: Eggnog French Toast Casserole

Perfect Holiday Appetizer! Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

A bowl of beetroot salsa with chips on a white plate, perfect for make ahead holiday dishes.
Perfect Holiday Appetizer! Cranberry Jalapeno Dip. Photo credit: Living Smart And Healthy.

Dazzle your taste buds with our Fresh Cranberry Jalapeno Dip – a vibrant blend of tart cranberries, zesty cilantro, and a touch of heat. Perfect for holiday gatherings. Make Ahead: Prepare the dip a day in advance to allow the flavors to meld, enhancing its taste.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Holiday Appetizer! Cranberry Jalapeno Dip

Slow Cooker Corn Casserole

Make a delicious cornbread in a slow cooker with just a wooden spoon. Perfect for make-ahead holiday dishes!
Slow Cooker Corn Casserole. Photo credit: The Magical Slow Cooker.

Making your own delicious and tasty sweet slow cooker corn casserole doesn’t get much easier than this. All you need are just a few ingredients, your crock pot, a little bit of time, and this easy corn casserole recipe. Make this ahead of time and have it ready to pair with your favorite holiday meal – or any meal for that matter.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Corn Casserole

Crock Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Make-ahead mashed potatoes in a bowl with parsley, perfect for holiday dishes.
Crock Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Easy Family Recipes.

These Make-Ahead Crockpot Mashed Potatoes are a classic side dish made easier in the slow cooker. They’re light, creamy, buttery, and so creamy thanks to the addition of sour cream. Just a few minutes of prep needed.
Get the Recipe: Crock Pot Garlic Mashed Potatoes

No Bake Gingerbread Pie

A make ahead holiday dish featuring a delicious pie with a slice taken out of it, beautifully presented on a plate.
No Bake Gingerbread Pie. Photo credit: Chocolate Moosey.

Get ahead of the busy Christmas season with this make-ahead No Bake Gingerbread Pie in a speculoos cookie crust with homemade whipped cream. Made without Cool Whip. As the name suggests, it’s a no bake cream pie that tastes exactly like gingerbread but in pie form. It’s much easier (and probably even faster).
Get the Recipe: No Bake Gingerbread Pie

Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Make ahead mashed potatoes in a white dish with chives.
Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Savor The Best.

These Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes will be a lifesaver during the holidays, I promise. No need to fret at the last minute, worrying about the mashed potatoes getting cold before everything else is ready. We’re all familiar with that juggling act, timing out each dish just right so they are magically done at the same exact moment. Well, these Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes will let you check one dish off your list early- up to two days early, in fact.
Get the Recipe: Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Velveeta Green Bean Casserole

A make-ahead cheesy chicken enchilada casserole, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Velveeta Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Get On My Plate.

This Velveeta Green Bean Casserole recipe shakes up your traditional green bean casserole with a layer creamy Velveeta cheese, a sprinkle of cheddar cheese, and crispy fried onions, all baked to bubbly perfection. This delicious side dish can also be prepared 1-2 days ahead of time for a more stress-free holiday dinner.
Get the Recipe: Velveeta Green Bean Casserole

Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

A casserole of neatly stacked potatoes, baked in cheese and cream.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes. Photo credit: Grandbaby Cakes.

Cheesy scalloped potatoes make the perfect side dish. They are cozy, delicious and best of all; easy to prepare so you can turn your attention to the turkey.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes

Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Make ahead beef stew with carrots and mashed potatoes, perfect for holiday dishes.
Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Dinner At The Zoo.

These make ahead mashed potatoes are Russet potatoes that are boiled until tender, then combined with butter, garlic, cream cheese and seasonings to make the ultimate side dish. The perfect recipe to make before a big holiday when you don’t want to spend the whole day in the kitchen. There’s nothing better than a big pile of buttery mashed potatoes go along with an Instant Pot turkey breast, or to serve alongside a juicy London broil.
Get the Recipe: Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Ham And Cheese Strata (Croque Monsieur Casserole)

Make ahead breakfast casserole with ham and cheese, perfect for holiday gatherings.
Ham And Cheese Strata (Croque Monsieur Casserole). Photo credit: Savor The Best.

Ham and cheese strata is a delicious breakfast casserole made with cheese and a savory egg mixture that soaks into bread. It bakes the next morning for a dreamy, savory bread pudding breakfast with bits of meaty ham and Gruyere cheese throughout. This Croque Monsieur casserole has all the flavors of the traditional French breakfast sandwich, but is instead served as a strata with so much goodness, you’ll be looking forward to dig in the next morning.
Get the Recipe: Ham And Cheese Strata (Croque Monsieur Casserole)

Red Skin Mashed Potatoes

Make-ahead holiday dish of creamy mashed potatoes with eggs and herbs.
Red Skin Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: The Frozen Biscuit.

Creamy, buttery red skin mashed potatoes is a delicious side dish that can be served with almost anything, plus there is no need to peel the potatoes, or use a mixer. Talk about the perfect, easy side dish. Yes, and these mashed potatoes are the perfect make ahead side dish to take to a potluck or to make for the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Red Skin Mashed Potatoes

Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

A make ahead holiday platter featuring a Christmas selection of meats and cheeses.
Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Sweet And Savory Morsels.

This Christmas Tree charcuterie board is the ideal appetizer for all of your holiday gatherings. It features all of your favorite meats, cheeses, fruits, vegetables, and nuts arranged in a festive Christmas tree shape. So easy to make and perfect for any party. This simple festive meat and cheese board can be prepared a few hours ahead of time, allowing you to spend time right before the party making the punch and putting the finishing touches on the table.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Tree Charcuterie Board

Christmas Cake

A festive white cake adorned with holly leaves, perfect for make ahead holiday dishes.
Christmas Cake. Photo credit: Christina’s Cucina.

Christmas cake is a traditional British fruit cake covered with marzipan and decorated in royal icing. The recipe can be made months or days in advance for Christmas Day. If you’re reading this, you’re probably looking for a delicious and reliable, easy to use recipe for Christmas cake.
Get the Recipe: Christmas Cake

Quick + Easy Make Ahead Cranberry Orange Relish

Make-ahead cranberry sauce in a bowl with oranges and cranberries, perfect for holiday dishes.
Quick + Easy Make Ahead Cranberry Orange Relish. Photo credit: The Virtual Caterer.

This cranberry orange relish is so good you will never want to buy store-bought cranberry sauce ever again. It only takes 5 minutes to make and one day to marinate, and no cooking is required! Simplify cooking on Thanksgiving day and make this up to 5 days before the big meal.
Get the Recipe: Quick + Easy Make Ahead Cranberry Orange Relish

Velveeta Green Bean Casserole

Make ahead holiday wreath made out of cheese and green onions.
Velveeta Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Ericas Recipes.

Wow your crowd with an epic Christmas appetizer made with the most delicious party dip. Scallion Olive Party Dip recipe is quickly shaped into a Christmas cheese wreath for your best party presentation ever. Yes! you can make this up to 3 days in advance of serving. At the very least, once you mix up this dip, let it chill in the fridge at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld.
Get the Recipe: Velveeta Green Bean Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Streusel

A make-ahead holiday dish filled with pecans and oats.
Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Streusel. Photo credit: Gypsy Plate.

Its We love creamy mashed sweet potatoes just by themselves. But when you go up one notch by adding a layer of crunchy, buttery, sweet and a little salty, nutty pecans. super easy to make. You can make it on the feast day, but you know how busy that gets, with hundreds of things to cook. This one is your friend. You can pre-assemble your sweet potatoes and make your streusel a few days in advance and freeze or refrigerate separately. If you freeze it, just thaw overnight in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Casserole With Pecan Streusel

Pecan Cream Pie

Make ahead holiday pecan pie on a white plate with pecans on top.
Pecan Cream Pie. Photo credit: Health My Lifestyle.

This Pecan Cream Pie recipe is easy, requiring only 9 ingredients and incredibly delicious, made with coconut cream and naturally sweetened with dates. It’s vegan, oil-free, gluten-free, and refined sugar-free (but you’d never know!). It is almost a no-bake recipe. You are welcome to use a pre-made pie crust if you prefer which will cut down on time in the kitchen even more.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Cream Pie

Yeast Rolls

A baking dish with golden brown yeast rolls.
Yeast Rolls. Photo credit: Sugar and Soul.

You can’t go wrong with a classic like simple yeast rolls as a side for Thanksgiving! This recipe is easy but so delicious and fluffy!
Get the Recipe: Yeast Rolls

Easy No-Bake Eggnog Pie

A make-ahead slice of pumpkin pie on a plate.
Easy No-Bake Eggnog Pie. Photo credit: Semi Homemade Kitchen.

Escape the oven’s grasp and dive into the effortless charm of our no-bake eggnog pie. With a creamy eggnog filling nestled in a simple graham cracker crust, this recipe is a laid-back yet indulgent addition to your holiday dessert lineup. It is sure to become a family favorite. The best part? It’s as easy as pie (literally), and you can whip it up in advance, saving you from any last-minute kitchen chaos during the holiday season.
Get the Recipe: Easy No-Bake Eggnog Pie

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Make ahead holiday mashed potatoes in a white dish with chives.
Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: The Blond Cook.

These rich, creamy and buttery Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes are perfect for serving a crowd during the holidays. This convenient side dish can be made up to 2 days ahead of time. These creamy and buttery Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes are perfect for serving a crowd during the holidays and can be made up to 2 days ahead.
Get the Recipe: Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

Breakfast Casserole

Make ahead French toast casserole on a plate with a fork, perfect for holiday dishes.
Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: The Forked Spoon.

This Easy Breakfast Casserole is made with eggs, ground sausage, shredded cheese, and day-old bread. Comforting and so flavorful, it’s the perfect make-ahead breakfast or holiday brunch. Mornings welcomed with this best-ever breakfast casserole are guaranteed to be great.
Get the Recipe: Breakfast Casserole

Cranberry Orange Cake With Cranberry Jam Filling

A make-ahead holiday dish, this cake features orange slices and cranberries beautifully arranged on a wooden plate.
Cranberry Orange Cake With Cranberry Jam Filling. Photo credit: Bake With Jamie.

This Cranberry Orange Cake has a cranberry jam filling and is topped with an orange zest frosting that is truly out of this world! You can use fresh or frozen cranberries for this cake. Top with sugared cranberries and orange slices for the perfect Christmas dessert. To save time, bake the cakes the day ahead! Once they are completely cooled, wrap them in plastic wrap and store them in the fridge or at room temperature. Cold cake is easier to frost, so I do recommend the fridge!
Get the Recipe: Cranberry Orange Cake With Cranberry Jam Filling

Quarkstollen

Two slices of bread on a white plate, perfect for quick and easy make ahead holiday dishes.
Quarkstollen. Photo credit: Irene Mercadal.

This recipe, unlike the dresdner stollen, which is the MOST traditional of the stollens during the holidays in Germany, is made with baking powder instead of live yeast (the same one with which kneaded bread is made) so in my opinion Taste has 2 “points in its favor” it is much easier to do and secondly it is not necessary to let it mature. Although this particular recipe seems to me to be richer if it was cooked for at least 2 weeks before being cut (and if it is kept refrigerated in foil it can last up to 6 months).
Get the Recipe: Quarkstollen

Vegan Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Make ahead chocolate peppermint cookies with white icing and candy canes perfect for the holidays.
Vegan Peppermint Mocha Cookies. Photo credit: The All Natural Vegan.

These Vegan Peppermint Mocha Cookies are the perfect holiday treat. They have the perfect soft and chewy texture and are packed full of delicious chocolate and peppermint flavors. These chewy cookies are guaranteed to be a hit among all. you can refrigerate the cookie dough for a few hours or overnight. This can enhance the flavor and texture. Let it sit out for about 10 minutes before baking.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Peppermint Mocha Cookies

Easy Mini Cheesecake Bites

A make-ahead blackberry cheesecake with whipped cream and blackberries perfect for holiday gatherings.
Easy Mini Cheesecake Bites. Photo credit: Art Of Natura Lliving.

Mini cheesecake bites are small and tasty, topped with your favorite toppings. Easy and crowd-pleasing, they’re perfect for many different occasions. Easy to Make Ahead. These freeze beautifully right down to the dollop of whipped cream on top (with a few caveats–lots more on freezing below).
Get the Recipe: Easy Mini Cheesecake Bites

Black Eyed Peas

Make ahead: A bowl of black eyed pea soup with ham and beans is the perfect make-ahead dish for your holiday gathering.
Black Eyed Peas. Photo credit: Cooks With Soul.

Our Black Eyed Peas and Rice (Hoppin’ John) is a timeless New Year’s Day classic, featuring smoked neck bones, onion, bell pepper, and celery. It’s more than just a dish – it’s a tradition. Whether you’re savoring it to invite prosperity in the new year or on a cozy winter evening for a bowl of pure comfort, this is your ticket to a world of flavor and good vibes. Like many stews, Hoppin’ John often taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Don’t hesitate to make it ahead of time
Get the Recipe: Black Eyed Peas

Ham and Asparagus Strata

Make-ahead holiday breakfast casserole with ham and peppers in a glass dish.
Ham and Asparagus Strata. Photo credit: From Valeries Kitchen.

Ham and Asparagus Strata is an easy, make-ahead breakfast casserole for a stress-free brunch. Cubed bread is layered with ham, sautéed vegetables, an egg and milk mixture, and shredded cheese. It’s refrigerated overnight and ready to pop in the oven the next day. An old fashioned breakfast strata is a classic holiday tradition for so many families for good reason.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Asparagus Strata

Black Cherry Jello Mold

A cranberry jelly cake on a white plate, perfect for a make ahead holiday dish.
Black Cherry Jello Mold. Photo credit: Jello Joy.

Why this is the best jello salad ever? It’s insanely delicious, super festive (perfect for the holidays and potlucks!) and the easiest jello mold you can make with only two ingredients. The cherry jello salad will keep well refrigerated for up to one week. Which makes it a wonderful dessert to make ahead and save time in the busy kitchen during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Black Cherry Jello Mold

Vegetarian Roast Dinner

Make ahead meatloaf and mashed potatoes on a plate.
Vegetarian Roast Dinner. Photo credit: Happy Kitchen.

Ultimate vegan loaf, harmoniously blending the earthy richness of lentils, the hearty crunch of nuts, and the umami depth of mushrooms, is a perfect crowd-pleasing holiday centerpiece. This wholesome and easy gluten-free juicy vegetarian roast is packed with plant-based protein and fiber, and is full of flavor. Serve this delicious savory vegan roast dinner for your family or guests, and I bet they will beg for an extra serving. can be made ahead of time.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Roast Dinner

Empanadas De Camote | Sweet Potato Empanadas

Make ahead holiday pumpkin empanadas on a plate with dipping sauce.
Empanadas De Camote | Sweet Potato Empanadas. Photo credit: Muy Bueno Blog.

These sweet potato hand pies are warmly spiced and encased in a deliciously flaky dough, perfect for ending any fall or winter meal. As a bonus, there’s no need to deal with the fuss of slicing and serving a whole pie. Make-Ahead-Friendly – This recipe for sweet empanadas is an eternal Thanksgiving favorite because I can make them up to 3 months in advance. If you’re familiar with the crazy rush of holiday prep, you know what a relief it is to have your desserts taken care of.
Get the Recipe: Empanadas De Camote | Sweet Potato Empanadas

Lemon Tarts

Make ahead lemon tarts with blueberries on a wooden cutting board, perfect for holiday dishes.
Lemon Tarts. Photo credit: This Simple Kitchen.

There’s nothing better than gluten free lemon tarts! Bursting with fresh and tangy lemon flavor, this is an impressive dessert. But the secret is out – they are so easy to make. Bake gluten free tart shells in advance (or use store bought) and store the lemon curd in the fridge for 1-2 weeks. Whenever you’re ready to assemble the dessert – it will only take 5 minutes! Easy way to impress your guests without the stress.
Get the Recipe: Lemon Tarts

Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

A slice of blueberry bread pudding being drizzled with red sauce, perfect for make ahead holiday dishes.
Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole. Photo credit: Cake N Knife.

Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole is an overnight must-have for busy weekdays or weekends when you just don’t want to have to cook. The sweet spiced custard with a crispy topping and creamy pockets of sweetened cream cheese make this a feast to remember. Serves 12.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cream Cheese French Toast Casserole

Honey Glazed Baked Ham

A make ahead holiday dish featuring a ham with red cabbage and lemon slices beautifully arranged on a cutting board.
Honey Glazed Baked Ham. Photo credit: Cookin Gorgeous.

Honey Glazed Baked Ham is a classic dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether it’s for a holiday gathering or a simple family dinner, this incredibly delicious dish is sure to please everyone. It’s also a great dish to make ahead of time that you can serve hot or cold, making it a versatile option for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Honey Glazed Baked Ham

Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats

        Make ahead holiday dishes: Two jars of oatmeal with cinnamon and cinnamon sticks
Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats. Photo credit: Savor The Spoonful.

These healthy cinnamon roll overnight oats are perfectly sweet, delicious, and so easy to make! With a cinnamon-sugar swirl in every serving, they taste just like cinnamon buns. Made with yogurt and almond milk, this recipe is vegan, dairy-free, and naturally gluten-free for both kids and adults to enjoy. They are great to make ahead and enjoy throughout the week for on-the-go breakfast, school lunch, or as a healthy after-dinner dessert.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Overnight Oats

Mashed Potato Casserole

Cheesy mashed potatoes, a perfect make-ahead dish for the holidays, served in a white dish with bacon and chives.
Mashed Potato Casserole. Photo credit: House Of Yumm.

This Mashed Potato Casserole is melt-in-your-mouth creamy and smooth, loaded up with tons of melty cheese, crunchy panko bread crumbs, topped with crisp, salty bacon, and bits of chives for color and a pop of fresh flavor. Easy to Prepare: The option to make this the day before makes it the perfect side dish for Holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole

Make Ahead Corn Stuffing Recipe {Easy}

Make ahead cornbread stuffing in a pan with herbs, perfect for holiday dishes.
Make Ahead Corn Stuffing Recipe {Easy}. Photo credit: Spend With Pennies.

A good stuffing recipe is my favorite part of Thanksgiving, hands down. A good old- fashioned bread stuffing is what holiday legends are made of! Whether you call it bread dressing or turkey dressing or turkey stuffing, it is the number one dish you will have on your table next to the roast turkey (alongside the mashed potatoes and the corn casserole of course).
Get the Recipe: Make Ahead Corn Stuffing Recipe {Easy}

Bella Bucchiotti

Bella Bucchiotti is a Canadian-based syndicated food, travel, and lifestyle writer, photographer, and creator at xoxoBella. She founded xoxoBella in 2015, where she shares her love for food, dogs, sustainability, fitness, crafts, outdoor adventures, travel, and philanthropy to encourage others to run the extra mile, try new recipes, visit unfamiliar places, and stand for a cause. Bella creates stress-free and family-friendly recipes for weeknight dinners and festive feasts.

 

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