I've made this through step 3, 2 days prior and it was great. I would love to make this 4 or 5 days prior, again through step 3. Then day of, fini...

Thank you Kristen. I didn't think of freezing it - so glad to hear that is an option. Is it okay to finish the recipe before freezing, or should I still make through step 3 and finish with the thickening the day I serve? This site has been such a lifeline for me - can't thank you enough for all the help!

It's fine to freeze the recipe in completed form—you might just want to tweak the consistency and flavor once it's thawed and re-warmed. If it looks thin, reduce it down; if it looks thick, add a bit of water or wine, then taste!