Final Thanksgiving Prep Timeline (Including Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes & Gravy)

Your stress-free cooking guide for the perfect holiday feast

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Whether you’re hosting a crowd or preparing a cozy family meal, this prep timeline walks you through what to make and when, so everything comes together smoothly and without stress. From desserts to mashed potatoes and gravy, here’s how to get ahead and enjoy your holiday.

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Two Days Before Thanksgiving (Tuesday)

Cook Your Greens

Greens are perfect for early prep because the flavors deepen with time. Cook them on Tuesday, store them properly, and they’ll be even more flavorful by Thursday.

Bake Your Desserts

Knock out your cobblers, cakes, and pies early. These desserts stay fresh for days and free your oven for bigger items later.

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The Day Before Thanksgiving (Wednesday)

Prep Mac and Cheese, Casseroles, and Ham

Assemble your mac and cheese and casseroles. Prep your ham by scoring or slicing and applying glaze. Cover and refrigerate until ready to reheat.

Make-Ahead Mashed Potatoes

You can absolutely make mashed potatoes a day ahead. Refrigerate them, then reheat on the stovetop with added butter or cream to restore that creamy, silky texture.

Prepare Your Gravy

Make your gravy completely on Wednesday. Let it cool, store it in the fridge, and gently reheat it on Thanksgiving Day, whisking as needed to smooth it out.

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Thanksgiving Day (Thursday)

Cook Turkey and Chicken Fresh

For the best flavor and texture, roast your turkey and chicken on Thanksgiving Day. Plan your timing based on weight so everything finishes perfectly.

Reheat and Serve Your Sides

Warm the dishes you prepared ahead:

• Greens
• Mac and cheese
• Casseroles
• Ham
• Mashed potatoes
• Gravy

Once everything is hot and ready, carve your turkey and enjoy your feast.

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Detailed Reheating Guide for Thanksgiving Day

Greens

• Stovetop: Medium heat, 10–15 minutes
• Add a splash of broth if needed

Mac and Cheese

• Oven: 350°F for 25–35 minutes
• Add a little milk around the edges and cover with foil

Casseroles

• Oven: 350°F for 20–30 minutes
• Keep covered until the final 5 minutes

Ham

• Oven: 325°F for 20–25 minutes
• Brush additional glaze on top before reheating

Mashed Potatoes

• Stovetop: Low heat, stirring occasionally
• Add butter, cream, or milk to restore creaminess

Gravy

• Stovetop: Low heat
• Whisk occasionally until smooth

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Turkey Cooking Time Chart

Use this guide to estimate how long your turkey needs to roast at 325°F:

Turkey Weight	Approx. Cook Time
8–10 lbs	2.5–3 hours
10–12 lbs	3–3.5 hours
12–14 lbs	3.5–4 hours
14–16 lbs	4–4.5 hours
16–18 lbs	4.5–5 hours
18–20 lbs	5–5.5 hours

Always confirm doneness with a thermometer: 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh.

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Make-Ahead Storage Tips

Greens:
Store in airtight containers. Add a little liquid (broth or pot likker) to keep them moist.

Mac & Cheese / Casseroles:
Assemble, cover tightly with foil, and refrigerate up to 24 hours before reheating.

Ham:
Refrigerate tightly wrapped to avoid drying out.

Mashed Potatoes:
Store in a sealed container. Add a thin layer of melted butter on top to lock in moisture.

Gravy:
Cool completely before refrigerating. Store in a mason jar or airtight container.

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FAQ: Thanksgiving Prep Questions

Can I freeze mashed potatoes?
Yes. Mashed potatoes freeze well for up to one month. Reheat with added butter or cream to bring them back to life.

How early can I make dessert?
Most baked desserts (cobblers, cakes, pies) can be made 48–72 hours in advance.

How do I prevent dry turkey?
Brine your turkey or dry brine it at least 24 hours ahead. Cook with a thermometer instead of relying on the clock.

What should I do if guests arrive early?
Have snack plates ready: deviled eggs, charcuterie, fruit, or a simple dip. It buys you time without stress.