17 Thanksgiving Meal Prep Ideas That Keep Stress Low

ByMandy Applegate

There’s a fine line between hosting Thanksgiving and starring in your own cooking meltdown, and 17 meal prep ideas make sure you stay on the calm side. They handle the heavy lifting before the chaos begins. Each idea takes a little stress off your plate before it’s even time to serve one. It’s basically a cheat code for keeping your cool when the timer dings.

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it.
Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of several chocolate chip cookies on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the chocolate chips inside.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Treat yourself to the perfect mix of fall flavors with soft, chewy goodness. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies combine warm spices with chocolate richness to make a snack everyone will love. These are great for dessert, but they also work for grabbing during meal prep. Share them or keep them all to yourself; they’re hard to resist.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Celery Salad

A bowl filled with chopped celery, red onion, apples, almonds, and fresh herbs.
Celery Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Here’s a fresh and crunchy way to bring something light to your table. Celery Salad mixes crisp textures for a refreshing side dish that contrasts heavier meals. Easy to prepare ahead, it’s a convenient choice for saving time. Toss it in a container, and it’s already set to go when you’re ready to serve.
Get the Recipe: Celery Salad

Pumpkin Cake

Close-up of sliced pumpkin cake topped with cream cheese frosting and a dusting of cinnamon, with plates in the background.
Pumpkin Cake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

You can keep dessert simple and seasonal with something sweet and spongy. Pumpkin Cake delivers a moist and tasty option that pairs perfectly with other desserts. It’s a crowd-pleaser that doesn’t require a lot of fuss during prep. Bake it ahead of time, and it’s ready to shine when your guests arrive.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cake

Cheddar Biscuits

A close-up of several golden-brown biscuits stacked on parchment paper, garnished with a few sprigs of fresh herbs.
Cheddar Biscuits. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A warm, flaky addition to your table makes any dinner better. Cheddar Biscuits add cheesy layers to your bread basket, making them a versatile pairing for many meals. They’re a hit with guests and stay fresh when prepped early. Serve as a side or enjoy alone; they’re just that good.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Biscuits

Pumpkin Coffee Cake

A stack of pumpkin coffee cake squares with crumb topping and white glaze, arranged on a wooden board.
Pumpkin Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Start the morning right or cap off your meals with a lightly sweet dessert. Pumpkin Coffee Cake has a crumbly topping that pairs perfectly with drinks or as an end-of-day treat. Make it in advance, and it’ll taste just as good when served. It’s perfect for those who love a baked snack without too much effort.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Cinnamon Applesauce

A jar labeled
Cinnamon Applesauce. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Add some sweetness and warmth to your meal plan with a classic side option. Cinnamon Applesauce combines simple flavors into a smooth, mellow dish that pairs well with both sweet and savory meals. Prep it ahead and store it for an easy side that feels homemade. It’s versatile and great for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Applesauce

Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Cheese ball shaped like a pumpkin with a green stem, coated in crumbled topping, surrounded by herbs and decorative pumpkins on a wooden surface.
Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Bring something fun to the table to impress your guests. Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball is both decorative and a great appetizer for dipping and sharing. Easy to prep in advance, it doubles as tasty food and conversation starter. Set it out, and you can focus on other dishes while this gets all the attention.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Eggplant Casserole

A slice of cheesy eggplant lasagna with tomato sauce is being lifted from a pan, showing stretchy melted cheese. A bowl is blurred in the background.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layer up something hearty and filling without making it complicated. Eggplant Casserole works as a main or side dish thanks to its bold, comforting flavors. Make it ahead, and it’ll hold up great for reheating without losing texture. It also fits almost any meal plan, so it’s a reliable choice.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies

Close-up of several chocolate brownies with a swirl of orange filling on top, arranged on parchment paper.
Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Blend rich chocolate with an autumn twist for an easy dessert. Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies are perfect for anyone wanting something sweet with a bold texture. Bake them ahead to save last-minute hassle, and they’ll stay perfect until it’s time to serve. Share them or enjoy them later; they don’t need extras to impress.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Spice Fudgy Brownies

Muhammara with Pita Bread

A bowl of tomato-based dip garnished with chopped parsley and walnuts, with pita bread pieces on the side.
Muhammara with Pita Bread. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bring a flavorful spread to your table that feels like a step above the usual. Muhammara with Pita Bread offers a bold and satisfying dip that’s easy to make and store. Prep everything in advance, and it’s ready for serving when guests arrive. Perfect as a starter or a light snack, it fits any occasion.
Get the Recipe: Muhammara with Pita Bread

Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Close-up of sliced crumbly cakes topped with white icing. One piece is positioned vertically to show its texture.
Cinnamon Sugar Blondies. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

When you need a dessert that’s sweet but not overly rich, this is a great go-to. Cinnamon Sugar Blondies bring a chewy texture and simple spice for easy serving at any gathering. Bake them ahead for an easy stored treat. They’re perfect for grabbing and sharing with family or friends throughout the day.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Sugar Blondies

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl.
Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A warm, hearty dish is always welcome, especially when it’s low-stress to prepare. Red Lentil Soup is a comforting option that pairs great with bread or as a light meal. Make a big batch early, and it reheats perfectly without losing any flavor. Keep it on hand for something quick and cozy that everyone will want.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Cream Cheese Brownies

Brownies with a cream cheese layer in the center are cut into squares and arranged on parchment paper.
Cream Cheese Brownies. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combine creamy richness with chocolate for a dessert nobody will pass up. Cream Cheese Brownies layer textures and flavors for something special that’s easy to share. Make them ahead to save time, and they’re all set for plating when needed. Whether as a main dessert or extra snack, they’re always a hit on the table.
Get the Recipe: Cream Cheese Brownies

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

A plate of golden-brown gnocchi garnished with rosemary, served with a black fork.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A unique twist on classic pasta gives you options for sides or main meals. Sweet Potato Gnocchi is a hearty and easy-to-make dish that pairs well with sauces or simple butter melts. Prep them in advance, and they reheat well without losing shape or flavor. Try them with different meals to keep things interesting.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, resting on parchment paper with a crumbly base visible.
Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

If you’re aiming for a dessert that feels classic and modern, this fits the bill. Creme Brûlée Cheesecake combines creamy layers with a caramelized topping for a dessert that stands out. Make it ahead and refrigerate; it serves beautifully when chilled. Serve this when you want something sweet but easy to prep in advance.
Get the Recipe: Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Roasted Broccoli

A bowl of roasted broccoli topped with grated cheese and seasoning.
Roasted Broccoli. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Pair healthy with flavorful in a side dish that’s ready when you are. Roasted Broccoli has a crisp texture and smoky taste, making it a great way to balance rich main dishes. It’s simple to prepare in advance, letting you focus on other parts of your meal. Keep this option ready for whenever you need quick serving.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccoli

Blueberry Cheesecake

A slice of cheesecake topped with glossy blueberry sauce on a white plate, with two black spoons beside it.
Blueberry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Give your menu something fruity and sweet with a creamy finish. Blueberry Cheesecake is beautifully balanced with soft texture and a pop of flavor from fresh berries. It’s an ideal dessert to prep and chill, letting you focus on more demanding dishes. Serve it cold for a refreshing finish to any meal.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake

A vegetarian for over 45 years, Mandy has taught herself to be creative in the kitchen, using traditional appliances and air fryers. Traveling extensively, Mandy loves learning and adapting vegetarian recipes from across the world.

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