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The secret to a stress-free Thanksgiving? Make-ahead sides! This week, we're sharing three delicious side dishes that can be prepared in advance, giving you more time to enjoy the holiday with your loved ones.

🥘 Featured Recipes This Week:

​QUICK AND EASY BROCCOLI RICE CASSEROLE ​

This comforting casserole combines tender broccoli, fluffy rice, and a creamy cheese sauce to please both adults and children.

Make-Ahead Magic:

• Prepare up to 2 days in advance
• Stores well in the fridge
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month
• Reheats beautifully

Assembly Tips:

• Cook rice al dente to prevent mushiness
• Blanch broccoli until bright green
• Let cheese come to room temperature
• Don't overmix when combining

​SQUASH CASSEROLE

A southern classic that transforms humble yellow squash into a creamy, cheesy side dish that might just steal the show!

Prep Ahead Steps:

• Slice squash up to 2 days ahead
• Make topping and store separately
• Assemble day before
• Bring to room temp before baking

Success Secrets:

• Salt and drain squash to prevent wateriness
• Use fresh breadcrumbs for best texture
• Don't skip the onions
• Season generously

​KFC MASHED POTATOES​

Creamy, buttery, and perfect for gravy! These copycat KFC mashed potatoes will become your new go-to recipe.

Perfect Potato Tips:

• Choose Yukon Gold or Russet
• Cut potatoes in uniform sizes
• Don't overwork the potatoes
• Heat milk and butter before adding

🗓️ Timeline for Success: 3 Days Before:

• Shop for ingredients
• Prep storage containers
• Make breadcrumbs

2 Days Before:

• Cook and cool rice
• Slice squash
• Make cream sauce

1 Day Before:

• Assemble casseroles
• Peel and cut potatoes (store in cold water)
• Prep garnishes

Day Of:

• Bring dishes to room temperature
• Bake casseroles
• Make mashed potatoes
• Warm before serving

🔄 Reheating Instructions: Broccoli Rice Casserole:

• 350°F for 25-30 minutes
• Cover with foil first 20 minutes

Squash Casserole:

• 325°F for 20-25 minutes
• Uncover last 10 minutes to crisp top

Mashed Potatoes:

• Stovetop: Low heat, add warm milk as needed
• Slow cooker: Low setting, 2-3 hours

🏆 Storage Solutions:

• Use disposable aluminum pans for easy transport
• Label everything with contents and reheating instructions
• Stack efficiently in fridge
• Keep toppings separate until baking

Next Week: Stay tuned for "Apple Season: Sweet & Savory Apple Recipes"!

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