This schedule is based on the Sophisticated Thanksgiving menu. A step-by-step schedule will make preparing this special meal even easier. We’ve included the suggested side dishes, or you can choose your own.

Up to 2 Days Ahead

Make Pumpkin Cheesecake, and refrigerate. Prepare Cranberry and Dried-Cherry Relish (can also be prepared up to 2 weeks ahead); refrigerate. Choose side dishes.

1 Day Ahead

Prepare Mushroom Stuffing through step 3; store bread in a resealable bag, and refrigerate cooled vegetables. For Green Beans with Vinaigrette, steam beans; prepare dressing. Refrigerate separately.

5 Hours Ahead

Make Roasted Carrots and Parsnips; keep at room temperature. Make Butter-Pecan Sweet Potatoes through step 2; refrigerate. Proceed with steps 4 and 5 of stuffing recipe; put stuffed turkey in oven.

2 hours ahead

Prepare Garlic Mashed Potatoes; top with a thin layer of milk, and keep in a warm place. Make dressing for Arugula and Endive Salad with Oranges; refrigerate.

30 Minutes to 1 Hour Ahead

Bake extra stuffing. Toss green beans with dressing. Make the gravy. Remove cranberry relish from refrigerator. Remove cheesecake from refrigerator.

Just Before Serving

Reheat carrots and parsnips. Prepare and toss the salad. Stir mashed potatoes. Remove stuffing from turkey before carving. Reheat gravy if needed.