Thanksgiving is a time for gathering, gratitude, and, of course, a feast that brings everyone together. But the preparation can be overwhelming, with hours spent in the kitchen juggling multiple dishes. The good news? Many Thanksgiving recipes can be made ahead and frozen, saving you time and stress on the big day. From savory sides to decadent desserts, this article provides 25 freezer-friendly recipes, complete with instructions for preparation, freezing, and reheating. Each recipe is designed to serve 8-10 people, perfect for a typical Thanksgiving gathering.
Appetizers
1. Cranberry Brie Bites
These bite-sized treats combine tangy cranberry sauce with creamy brie in a flaky pastry.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz brie cheese, cut into 24 cubes
- 1 cup homemade or canned cranberry sauce
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Roll out puff pastry and cut into 24 squares.
- Press each square into a mini muffin tin. Place a cube of brie in each and top with a teaspoon of cranberry sauce.
- Brush edges with egg wash. Bake for 15-20 minutes until golden.
- Cool completely before freezing.
Freezing: Place cooled bites in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Store for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake from frozen at 350°F (175°C) for 10-12 minutes.
2. Sausage-Stuffed Mushrooms
Savory mushrooms filled with a flavorful sausage mixture are a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients:
- 24 large cremini mushrooms, stems removed
- 1 lb Italian sausage
- 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook sausage until browned, breaking it up. Mix with breadcrumbs, Parmesan, garlic, and parsley.
- Stuff mushroom caps with mixture. Bake for 20 minutes.
- Cool completely before freezing.
Freezing: Freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
3. Spinach and Artichoke Dip
This creamy dip is perfect for serving with crackers or veggies.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, chopped
- 8 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1/2 cup sour cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients in a bowl. Spread into a baking dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes until bubbly.
- Cool completely before freezing.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe dish, covered tightly, for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes.
Side Dishes
4. Classic Green Bean Casserole
A Thanksgiving staple with a creamy mushroom sauce and crispy onions.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs green beans, trimmed and blanched
- 1 can (10.5 oz) cream of mushroom soup
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1 1/2 cups fried onions, divided
- 1 tsp soy sauce
Instructions:
- Mix green beans, soup, milk, soy sauce, and 1 cup fried onions. Spread in a casserole dish.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Top with remaining onions and bake 5 more minutes.
- Cool completely before freezing.
Freezing: Freeze in the baking dish, covered, for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes.
5. Sweet Potato Casserole
A sweet and crunchy side that freezes beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups mashed sweet potatoes
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp vanilla
- 1 cup chopped pecans
- 1/2 cup brown sugar (for topping)
Instructions:
- Mix sweet potatoes, sugar, butter, eggs, and vanilla. Spread in a casserole dish.
- Combine pecans and brown sugar for topping. Sprinkle over casserole.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes. Cool completely.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes.
6. Cornbread Stuffing
A Southern-inspired stuffing with cornbread and sausage.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups crumbled cornbread
- 1 lb sausage, cooked and crumbled
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 2 eggs, beaten
- 1 tbsp sage
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and celery until soft. Mix with cornbread, sausage, broth, eggs, and sage.
- Bake in a greased dish at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes.
- Cool completely before freezing.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe dish for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
7. Mashed Potatoes
Creamy mashed potatoes that hold up well in the freezer.
Ingredients:
- 5 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and boiled
- 1/2 cup butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mash potatoes with butter, cream, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Cool completely before freezing.
Freezing: Portion into freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge, then heat in a pot over low heat, stirring in a splash of cream.
8. Roasted Garlic Dinner Rolls
Soft, fluffy rolls with a hint of garlic.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups flour
- 1 packet (2 1/4 tsp) yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 head roasted garlic, mashed
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Mix yeast, sugar, and warm milk. Let sit 5 minutes.
- Add flour, butter, garlic, and salt. Knead until smooth. Let rise 1 hour.
- Shape into 12 rolls. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw at room temperature, then warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
9. Creamed Spinach
A rich, creamy side that complements any Thanksgiving spread.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs frozen spinach, thawed and drained
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
- Sauté garlic, add spinach, cream, Parmesan, and nutmeg. Cook until thickened.
- Cool completely before freezing.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then heat in a saucepan over medium heat.
10. Macaroni and Cheese
A cheesy, comforting classic.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb elbow macaroni, cooked
- 4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 cups milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 cup flour
- 1 tsp mustard powder
Instructions:
- Make a roux with butter and flour. Add milk and mustard powder, whisking until thick.
- Stir in cheese until melted. Mix with macaroni.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Cool completely.
Freezing: Freeze in a baking dish for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes.
Main Dishes
11. Turkey Meatballs
A turkey-based alternative for smaller gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ground turkey
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 2 eggs
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients. Form into 24 meatballs.
- Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes. Cool completely.
Freezing: Freeze on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
12. Vegetarian Lentil Loaf
A hearty, meat-free main dish.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked lentils
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 2 eggs
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
Instructions:
- Sauté onion and carrots. Mix with lentils, breadcrumbs, eggs, tomato paste, and soy sauce.
- Press into a loaf pan. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes.
13. Ham and Cheese Pinwheels
A savory, sliceable main or side.
Ingredients:
- 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
- 8 oz sliced ham
- 1 cup shredded Swiss cheese
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
Instructions:
- Spread mustard on puff pastry. Layer ham and cheese. Roll tightly.
- Slice into 12 pinwheels. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
Desserts
14. Pumpkin Pie
A classic Thanksgiving dessert that freezes well.
Ingredients:
- 1 unbaked pie crust
- 2 cups pumpkin puree
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp nutmeg
Instructions:
- Mix pumpkin, cream, sugar, eggs, and spices. Pour into crust.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 50-60 minutes. Cool completely.
Freezing: Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then serve at room temperature.
15. Pecan Pie Bars
A portable twist on pecan pie.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1/2 cup butter, melted
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1 1/2 cups chopped pecans
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup corn syrup
- 2 eggs
Instructions:
- Mix flour, butter, and sugar for crust. Press into a 9×13 pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 15 minutes.
- Mix pecans, brown sugar, corn syrup, and eggs. Pour over crust. Bake 25 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Cut into bars, freeze in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw at room temperature.
16. Apple Pie Filling
Make the filling now, assemble the pie later.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups sliced apples
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp cinnamon
- 2 tbsp cornstarch
Instructions:
- Toss apples with sugar, lemon juice, cinnamon, and cornstarch.
- Cook in a saucepan until slightly softened, about 10 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, pour into a pie crust, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 45 minutes.
17. Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough
Scoop and freeze for fresh-baked cookies.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cups flour
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 3/4 cup sugar
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 eggs
- 2 cups chocolate chips
- 1 tsp vanilla
Instructions:
- Cream butter and sugars. Add eggs and vanilla, then mix in flour and chocolate chips.
- Scoop into balls and freeze.
Freezing: Freeze dough balls on a tray, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 12-15 minutes.
18. Cranberry Orange Bread
A sweet-tart bread that freezes perfectly.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1 cup cranberries
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 2 eggs
Instructions:
- Mix flour, sugar, and baking powder. Add cranberries, orange juice, butter, and eggs.
- Pour into a loaf pan. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 60 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw at room temperature.
Sauces and Gravies
19. Turkey Gravy
A rich gravy to complement your turkey.
Ingredients:
- 1/4 cup turkey drippings (or butter)
- 1/4 cup flour
- 2 cups turkey or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Make a roux with drippings and flour. Whisk in broth until smooth.
- Simmer until thickened. Cool completely.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then heat in a saucepan over medium heat.
20. Cranberry Sauce
A tangy, homemade sauce that freezes well.
Ingredients:
- 12 oz fresh cranberries
- 1 cup sugar
- 1 cup water
- 1 tbsp orange zest
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a saucepan. Simmer until cranberries burst, about 10 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge and serve chilled or at room temperature.
21. Herb Butter
A flavorful spread for rolls or turkey.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup butter, softened
- 2 tbsp chopped parsley
- 1 tbsp chopped thyme
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
- Mix all ingredients. Roll into a log using plastic wrap.
- Freeze as is.
Freezing: Store in freezer for up to 6 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge and serve at room temperature.
Breads and Pastries
22. Buttermilk Biscuits
Flaky biscuits that freeze beautifully.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups flour
- 1 tbsp baking powder
- 1/2 cup butter, cold
- 3/4 cup buttermilk
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Mix flour, baking powder, and salt. Cut in butter. Add buttermilk and stir until just combined.
- Roll out, cut into rounds, and bake at 425°F (220°C) for 12-15 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 10-12 minutes.
23. Cinnamon Rolls
Sweet rolls for breakfast or dessert.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups flour
- 1 packet yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp cinnamon
- 1/2 cup cream cheese frosting
Instructions:
- Make dough with flour, yeast, milk, sugar, and butter. Let rise 1 hour.
- Roll out, spread with butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon. Roll up and slice into 12 rolls.
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20 minutes. Cool completely, then frost.
Freezing: Freeze unfrosted rolls in a single layer, then store in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw overnight, then bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes. Frost before serving.
24. Parker House Rolls
Soft, buttery rolls that are a Thanksgiving classic.
Ingredients:
- 4 cups flour
- 1 packet yeast
- 1 cup warm milk
- 1/4 cup sugar
- 1/4 cup butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions:
- Mix yeast, sugar, and milk. Add flour, butter, and salt. Knead until smooth.
- Let rise 1 hour. Shape into 24 rolls. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15 minutes.
- Cool completely.
Freezing: Freeze in a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw and warm at 350°F (175°C) for 10 minutes.
25. Pie Crust Dough
Make extra pie crusts for future pies.
Ingredients:
- 2 1/2 cups flour
- 1 cup butter, cold
- 1 tsp salt
- 6-8 tbsp ice water
Instructions:
- Mix flour and salt. Cut in butter until crumbly. Add water until dough forms.
- Divide into 2 disks and wrap tightly.
Freezing: Freeze dough disks for up to 6 months.
Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight, then roll out and use as needed.
Tips for Freezing and Reheating
- Label Everything: Include the dish name, date, and reheating instructions on freezer containers.
- Use Airtight Containers: Prevent freezer burn by using freezer-safe bags or containers.
- Thaw Safely: Thaw most dishes in the fridge overnight to maintain texture and flavor.
- Reheat Properly: Use an oven for casseroles and baked goods to preserve crispness. Microwaves can make dishes soggy.
By preparing these 25 recipes ahead of time, you can enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving with all the flavors your guests love. Freeze now, feast later, and make this holiday season a breeze!
