December 6, 2023

5 Make-Ahead Holiday Recipes

Whole30 Make-Ahead Holiday Recipes

As the holiday season approaches, the festive air brings with it a whirlwind of activity and, let’s admit, a dash of delightful chaos. Amidst the twinkling lights and joyful gatherings, finding a moment to breathe and truly relish the season can seem like a quest in itself. But what if this year could be different? What if you could enter this magical time with calmness and a sense of preparedness that allows you to soak in every precious moment?

Imagine a holiday where your kitchen is a haven of tranquility rather than a battleground. Where the wafting aromas of your lovingly prepared dishes mingle with laughter and conversation, instead of the clatter and clamor of last-minute cooking. This vision can be your reality with five of our favorite make-ahead holiday recipes, crafted to bring ease and enjoyment to your festive season.

These recipes are more than just delicious—they’re your ticket to a relaxed holiday. Perfectly designed for those in-between moments when the oven is commandeered by the main course, yet hunger pangs are calling. Each dish can serve as a delightful side or satisfying mini-meal, ready to be reheated and enjoyed without fuss!

Ranch Green Bean Casserole

Whole30 Dairy Free Ranch Green Bean Casserole

Transform the traditional green bean casserole with zippy, herby ranch, perfect for your next holiday gathering. This cozy, creamy casserole can be made ahead, frozen, and simply reheated to serve.

Get cooking now.

Ham and Hash Brown Casserole

Whole30 Dairy-Free Gluten-Free Ham and Hash Brown Casserole

Discover the joy of a one-dish wonder with this mouth-watering casserole, featuring a crunchy topping and a great way to use leftover ham. Prepare ahead for a stress-free holiday meal!

Ready, set, cook.

Whole30 Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

Whole30 Loaded Baked Potato Casserole

Indulge in the flavors of a loaded baked potato, transformed into an easy, Whole30-compatible casserole. Packed with a creamy potato base, “cheesy” sauce, bacon, and chives, it’s a dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Unlock the flavors.

Roasted Sweet Potato Soup

Elevate your Friendsgiving feast with this cozy roasted sweet potato soup. Flavored with cumin, garlic, ginger, jalapeño, lemon juice, and coriander, it’s a dish that promises to be a memorable starter.

Time to cook.

Whole30 Breakfast Casserole

Whole30 Breakfast Casserole

Savor holiday mornings with this veggie-loaded, texture-rich breakfast casserole. Easily customizable, it’s the perfect make-ahead meal for a leisurely morning.

Whip it up now.


Whether you’re looking to impress your guests or just want to indulge in the comfort of a home-cooked meal without the stress, these make-ahead holiday recipes are your secret weapon. Prepare them at your leisure, freeze them with care, and when the time comes, simply reheat and serve. It’s that easy!

Next up: 8 ways to reinvent your holiday leftovers!

Liz Parrent

Liz Parrent is Whole30's Senior Manager, for Whole30 Recipes content.She comes to Whole30 with over a decade of CPG and content marketing experience in the health and wellness space. Having been a part of Primal Kitchen's founding and pre-acquisition team, Liz holds a deep passion for the Whole30 community and the transformative power of a whole foods-focused lifestyle.