Parties can be great fun, but it is so easy to get caught up in the work and miss out on the festivities. Set out these three satisfying make-ahead items for your buffet and you'll be astounded at how the party simply happens around you.

Your guests will love the creamy vegetables and crunchy-topped chicken in Ranch Chicken & Rice Bake, along with a nice crisp Caesar-Style Salad and Individual Coconut Pound Cakes for dessert.

You'll love every minute of the fun! Grab a glass of punch and join the crowd of spectators admiring all the fabulous cookie creations.

Enjoy your party!

Everyone loves to see something new and different amid their favorite dishes on the Thanksgiving table. And, with so much cooking to do for a large meal, quick and easy is essential!

These three tasty side dishes feature colorful vegetables simply prepared with added flair. Lemon-Buttered Baby Vegetables are pretty on the table and have a little horseradish kick. Spicy Sweet Potatoes & Apples offer intrigue on the plate and the palate. Make-Ahead Ranch Mashed Potatoes bring extra zest to an all-time favorite.

Have a wonderful holiday season!

Every family has its traditional favorites for Thanksgiving dinner. Still, there is always room in the menu for a few surprises to keep the meal interesting and maybe even start a new tradition.

Our Pistachio-Sprinkled Green Beans or Orange Glazed Sweet Potatoes are simple dishes that add a touch of elegance to the table. For dessert, bake a deliciously rich Chocolate-Laced Pecan Pie that combines a classic pecan pie recipe with chocolate chips for irresistible results.

Have a wonderful Thanksgiving

Try these three make-ahead recipes and start your Thanksgiving Day feeling thankful for more time with your guests. They'll rave about the French Herbed Make Ahead Mashed Potatoes, a Savory Broccoli-Corn Casserole, and Sweet Potatoes with Sugared Pecans. Just bake a turkey or ham, get some help (see below!), and enjoy yourself.

Friends and family love to contribute. Someone could bring rolls or bread, and a guest who loves to bake could bring pumpkin pies or another dessert. Grandma could bring her famous cranberry sauce, or a relish tray with olives and an assortment of pickled vegetables. Everyone will be thankful for the abundant feast.

Enjoy your holiday!