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The holidays are all about sharing good food and great moments with loved ones. But when you’re the host, it’s easy to feel like you’re missing the fun, stuck in the kitchen while everyone else enjoys the party.

Make-ahead dishes are the secret weapon of every stress-free host. By prepping key dishes in advance, you can spend more time clinking glasses and less time juggling pots and pans.

 Whether you’re serving appetizers, sides, or desserts, these recipes will help you create a festive meal without breaking a sweat.

1. Appetizers: Spinach and Artichoke Dip

Start your holiday gathering with a warm, creamy appetizer that’s always a crowd-pleaser. Spinach and artichoke dip can be prepared the day before and baked just before guests arrive.

• Prep in Advance: Mix the ingredients (spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, Parmesan) and store in the fridge overnight.

• Serving Tip: Pair with crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguettes for an easy, elegant starter.

Ingredients:

• 1 can (14 oz) artichoke hearts, drained and chopped

• ½ cup sour cream

• ½ cup mayonnaise

• 8 oz cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• ½ cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, cream cheese, spinach, artichoke hearts, garlic, and ¾ cup of Parmesan cheese until smooth.

3. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese on top.

4. Bake for about 20 minutes or until hot and bubbly.

5. Serve warm with crackers, pita chips, or sliced baguettes.

(Recipe from Tastes Better From Scratch)

2. Main Course: Herb-Crusted Beef Tenderloin

For a showstopping main course, an herb-crusted beef tenderloin strikes the perfect balance of festive and delicious. It’s surprisingly easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with classic holiday sides.

• Prep in Advance: Season the tenderloin with garlic, rosemary, thyme, and salt, then wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Let it rest at room temperature before roasting.

• Serving Tip: Slice thinly and serve with a red wine reduction or horseradish cream sauce for a touch of elegance.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole beef tenderloin, trimmed and tied

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, minced

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, minced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Rub the beef tenderloin with olive oil, then coat with the mixture of rosemary, parsley, thyme, and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.

3. In an ovenproof skillet over high heat, sear the beef on all sides until browned, about 5 minutes.

4. Transfer the skillet to the oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 130°F (54°C) for medium-rare.

5. Let the beef rest for 10 minutes before slicing.

(Recipe from Food Network)

3. Side Dish: Mashed Sweet Potatoes with Maple and Pecans

Sweet potatoes bring a festive touch to any holiday table, and this make-ahead version, topped with maple syrup and pecans, is both easy and impressive.

• Prep in Advance: Peel, boil, and mash sweet potatoes with butter, cream, and a hint of cinnamon. Transfer to a baking dish and refrigerate. Add the maple-pecan topping just before reheating.

• Serving Tip: Warm in the oven until heated through and the pecans are lightly toasted for a flavorful, crunchy finish.

Ingredients:

• 4 large sweet potatoes

• ½ cup softened butter

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 tablespoons vanilla extract

• ½ cup packed light brown sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1¼ cups chopped pecans, divided

• ½ cup maple syrup

• 2 eggs, beaten

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil.

2. Place sweet potatoes on the prepared baking sheet and bake until tender, about 1 hour. Let cool slightly, then peel.

3. In a large bowl, mash the sweet potatoes. Stir in butter, heavy cream, vanilla extract, brown sugar, salt, 1 cup of pecans, and maple syrup until well combined. Add beaten eggs and mix thoroughly.

4. Transfer the mixture to a buttered baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup of pecans on top.

5. Bake in the preheated oven until heated through, and the pecans are toasted, about 30 minutes.

(Recipe from Allrecipes)

4. Dessert: Classic Apple Pie

No holiday gathering is complete without dessert, and a classic apple pie is always a hit. The best part? It can be baked ahead of time and still taste fresh.