Please note, this post may contain Amazon affiliate links as part of their program. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own, based on my personal experience and research.
Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and enjoying delicious meals. If you’re planning a potluck, you might be wondering what dishes will impress your guests and make the event memorable. This blog post offers over 22 Thanksgiving potluck ideas that are guaranteed to please a crowd and provide a delightful experience for everyone.
Whether you’re hosting or attending Friendsgiving or an office gathering, variety is key to a successful potluck. From savory side dishes to mouth-watering desserts, there’s something for everyone. Discover new recipes and creative takes on classic dishes to add a personal touch to the holiday celebration.
Don’t stress about what to bring to your next Thanksgiving potluck. You can find inspiration for festive and crowd-pleasing options right here that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Keep reading to make sure your dish is the one everyone talks about until next Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving Potluck Ideas
CRANBERRY AND BRIE PUFF PASTRY BITES
Cranberry and Brie Puff Pastry Bites are the perfect way to start your Thanksgiving potluck. These bite-sized appetizers combine the creamy richness of Brie with the sweet and tart contrast of cranberry sauce, all wrapped in a flaky puff pastry shell. Your guests will love how elegant and delicious these little treats are, and the best part is, they’re incredibly easy to make. They’re a fantastic way to bring a touch of sophistication to your potluck spread while still keeping it casual and accessible for everyone to enjoy.
GARLIC HERB STUFFED MUSHROOMS
If you want to impress the crowd with a savory and elegant appetizer, Garlic Herb Stuffed Mushrooms are your go-to dish. These flavorful mushroom caps are filled with a delightful mixture of garlic, fresh herbs, and breadcrumbs, delivering a rich, earthy taste that pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving feast. Your guests will rave about the bold, garlicky flavor that these little bites offer, and they’ll disappear in no time. Not only are they simple to prepare, but they also add a touch of gourmet flair to your potluck table.
PUMPKIN HUMMUS WITH PITA CHIPS
Add a seasonal twist to your Thanksgiving potluck with Pumpkin Hummus! This creamy and flavorful dip takes the traditional hummus recipe and infuses it with pumpkin, spices, and a hint of sweetness that perfectly complements the fall season. Served with crispy pita chips, it’s the ideal starter for a cozy gathering. Your guests will appreciate the unexpected seasonal twist that makes this hummus a standout dish. Plus, it’s a great option for those looking for a lighter, healthier appetizer without sacrificing flavor.
DEVILED EGGS WITH BACON AND CHIVES
Take a classic potluck favorite and elevate it with this delicious twist. Deviled Eggs with Bacon and Chives add a crunchy, savory element to the creamy egg filling, making them a surefire hit at any Thanksgiving gathering. These eggs are easy to make ahead of time and perfect for sharing, allowing your guests to grab one and go while mingling. The smoky bacon pairs perfectly with the chives, creating a balance of flavors that will leave your guests asking for the recipe.
KALE AND POMEGRANATE SALAD WITH MAPLE VINAIGRETTE
Brighten up your Thanksgiving potluck with a fresh and vibrant Kale and Pomegranate Salad. This dish combines crunchy kale with sweet, juicy pomegranate seeds and a tangy maple vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to heavier holiday fare. You’ll love how this salad adds a pop of color and flavor to your table, while also being packed with nutrients. It’s a light and healthy option that’s perfect for balancing out the indulgent dishes that typically dominate the holiday menu.
ROASTED BUTTERNUT SQUASH AND PECANS
Bring the flavors of fall to your Thanksgiving potluck with Roasted Butternut Squash and Pecans. The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash pairs beautifully with the rich, nutty flavor of toasted pecans, creating a warm, satisfying side dish that’s full of texture. Your guests will enjoy the delicious mix of sweet and savory, making this dish a perfect complement to any Thanksgiving spread. It’s simple to prepare and always a crowd-pleaser, whether served hot or at room temperature.
WILD RICE AND CRANBERRY SALAD
Add a hearty and flavorful side dish to your Thanksgiving potluck with Wild Rice and Cranberry Salad. This dish blends nutty wild rice with sweet dried cranberries, crunchy pecans, and a tangy vinaigrette, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. Your guests will love the depth of flavor in this unique salad, making it a standout option that complements both traditional and modern holiday dishes. It’s a great way to offer something a little different while still keeping with the seasonal theme.
SWEET POTATO CASSEROLE WITH MARSHMALLOWS
No Thanksgiving potluck is complete without Sweet Potato Casserole, and this version takes it to the next level with a gooey marshmallow topping. This dish is a holiday favorite that brings comfort and nostalgia to the table with its creamy sweet potato base and sweet, toasted marshmallows. The blend of sweet and savory flavors makes it a must-have side dish that both kids and adults will love. It’s easy to make ahead of time, so you can focus on other dishes the day of the potluck.
CORNBREAD STUFFING WITH SAUSAGE AND APPLES
For a savory, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor, bring Cornbread Stuffing with Sausage and Apples to your Thanksgiving potluck. This stuffing combines the sweetness of cornbread and apples with the bold, savory flavor of sausage, creating a dish that’s the perfect complement to roasted meats and vegetables. Your guests will love the rich combination of flavors in this stuffing, which adds a twist to the traditional recipe. It’s a versatile dish that’s sure to be a crowd favorite.
GARLIC PARMESAN MASHED POTATOES
Upgrade the classic mashed potatoes with this rich and creamy Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes recipe. The combination of roasted garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a delicious, savory flavor that’s hard to resist. These mashed potatoes will be the perfect side to complement any main dish, and they’re guaranteed to be one of the first dishes to disappear from the table. They’re easy to make ahead of time and reheat, making them a stress-free addition to your potluck spread.
ROASTED BRUSSELS SPROUTS WITH BALSAMIC GLAZE
Add a flavorful and healthy option to your Thanksgiving potluck with Roasted Brussels Sprouts drizzled with a balsamic glaze. Roasting brings out the natural sweetness of the Brussels sprouts, while the tangy balsamic glaze adds depth and balance. Your guests will appreciate the simplicity and bold flavors of this dish, and even those who typically avoid Brussels sprouts will find themselves reaching for seconds. It’s a great way to add some green to the table in a way that’s anything but boring.
VEGETARIAN STUFFED ACORN SQUASH
Impress your guests with this beautiful and hearty Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash. Each squash is filled with a delicious mixture of grains, dried fruits, nuts, and herbs, making it a perfect centerpiece or side dish for your Thanksgiving potluck. The presentation alone will make this dish stand out, but the combination of flavors will win everyone over. It’s a wonderful option for vegetarian guests, but trust me, even the meat lovers will appreciate the hearty, rich flavors in this satisfying dish.
HERB-ROASTED CHICKEN WITH LEMON AND THYME
If you’re looking for an alternative to turkey but still want a main dish that’s packed with flavor, Herb-Roasted Chicken with Lemon and Thyme is the answer. This dish is simple yet elegant, with juicy chicken infused with fresh herbs and the bright tang of lemon. Your guests will be delighted by the fresh, zesty flavors of this roast, and it’s a great option for smaller gatherings where a whole turkey might be too much. Plus, it pairs perfectly with just about any side dish you can think of.
GREEN BEAN CASSEROLE WITH CRISPY ONIONS
You can’t go wrong with Green Bean Casserole at a Thanksgiving potluck, but this version, topped with crispy fried onions, takes it to the next level. The creamy mushroom sauce pairs beautifully with the fresh green beans, and the crunchy onion topping adds texture and flavor that will have your guests coming back for more. This dish is a classic for a reason, and it’s sure to be one of the most popular sides at the potluck. It’s also easy to make ahead and reheat, making it super convenient.
MAC AND CHEESE WITH A PANKO CRUST
Take comfort food to the next level with this creamy, cheesy Mac and Cheese topped with a golden Panko crust. This dish is rich, decadent, and always a hit at any gathering. Your guests will love the contrast between the creamy cheese sauce and the crispy topping, making every bite pure comfort. It’s easy to make and can be baked just before serving, ensuring that it stays warm and delicious throughout your Thanksgiving potluck. Plus, kids and adults alike won’t be able to resist this dish!
MAPLE GLAZED CARROTS
Maple Glazed Carrots are the perfect way to add a touch of sweetness and color to your Thanksgiving potluck spread. These tender carrots are roasted to perfection and drizzled with a sweet, buttery maple glaze that enhances their natural flavors. Your guests will love how these carrots provide a break from the heavier dishes without sacrificing taste or elegance. They’re simple to prepare and add a beautiful pop of orange to your table, making them a great side dish that’s both light and satisfying.
PUMPKIN SAGE LASAGNA
For a unique and flavorful dish, Pumpkin Sage Lasagna offers a savory twist on a classic comfort food. Layers of creamy pumpkin, ricotta, and mozzarella cheese combine with the earthy flavor of sage to create a fall-inspired lasagna that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. Your guests will be intrigued by this creative and unexpected dish, and once they taste it, they’ll be hooked. It’s a great vegetarian option that’s hearty enough to serve as a main course or as a standout side dish at your potluck.
APPLE CRANBERRY CRUMBLE
Apple Cranberry Crumble is a crowd-pleasing dessert that’s both sweet and tart, with juicy apples and cranberries topped with a buttery, crispy crumble. Your guests will love the balance of flavors, and the crumble topping adds a delightful crunch that contrasts with the soft fruit. This dessert is easy to make and can be served warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for the perfect ending to your Thanksgiving potluck. It’s a lighter alternative to pie, but just as satisfying.
PUMPKIN PIE WITH PECAN TOPPING
Elevate your classic Pumpkin Pie with a crunchy pecan topping that adds texture and a nutty sweetness to this Thanksgiving favorite. Your guests will appreciate the twist on a traditional dessert, and the contrast between the smooth pumpkin filling and the caramelized pecans will make this pie unforgettable. It’s a great way to keep the classic elements of the holiday while adding a little extra flair to your potluck contribution. Plus, it can be made ahead of time, freeing you up for other preparations.
MAPLE BOURBON PECAN PIE BARS
For a dessert that’s easy to share, Maple Bourbon Pecan Pie Bars are a fantastic choice. These bars take all the best elements of a pecan pie and make them portable and easy to serve. Your guests will love the rich, buttery flavor of these bars, with the hint of bourbon adding a little something extra to the traditional pecan pie flavor. They’re great for a grab-and-go option at your potluck and perfect for those who want to enjoy dessert without committing to a full slice of pie.
GLUTEN-FREE APPLE PIE BARS
Accommodate your gluten-free guests without sacrificing flavor with these Gluten-Free Apple Pie Bars. They have all the warm, cinnamon-spiced goodness of a traditional apple pie, but in a gluten-free, easy-to-serve form. Your guests won’t even notice these bars are gluten-free, and they’ll love the tender apple filling paired with a buttery, crumbly crust. This dessert is perfect for making ahead and is a great option for serving alongside other pies and treats at your Thanksgiving potluck.
VEGAN MASHED POTATOES
Creamy and flavorful, Vegan Mashed Potatoes are a fantastic option for accommodating dietary preferences without compromising on taste. Made with almond milk and olive oil, these potatoes are just as rich and smooth as the traditional version. Your guests will appreciate having a dairy-free option that still delivers all the comforting flavors they expect from mashed potatoes. It’s a great way to make sure everyone at your potluck has a dish they can enjoy, and it pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving entrée.
CRANBERRY ORANGE UPSIDE-DOWN CAKE
For a show-stopping dessert that’s sure to impress, Cranberry Orange Upside-Down Cake combines the tartness of cranberries with the bright, citrusy flavor of orange. Your guests will be wowed by the presentation of this stunning cake, with the cranberries forming a beautiful, jewel-like topping. The flavors are light and refreshing, making it a perfect end to a rich Thanksgiving meal. This cake is easy to make and will add a burst of color and flavor to your Thanksgiving potluck table.
With these 22+ delicious Thanksgiving potluck ideas, you’re sure to find the perfect dish that will impress your guests and keep them talking long after the meal is over. Whether you choose a savory side, a show-stopping dessert, or a fresh take on a classic dish, you’ll love how easy it is to contribute something truly memorable. Don’t stress about what to bring—focus on creating a dish that reflects the joy and gratitude of the holiday. By adding your own personal touch, you can turn a simple potluck contribution into something everyone will remember and appreciate. After all, Thanksgiving is all about sharing not just food, but love, connection, and memories. Let your dish be the one everyone looks forward to every year, and don’t be surprised when you’re asked for the recipe!
I absolutely love these Thanksgiving potluck ideas because they offer the perfect blend of tradition and creativity. Each dish has its own unique charm, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether it’s a savory side or a sweet dessert, you’ll fall in love with how these dishes bring people together, sparking conversation and creating lasting memories. They’re easy to prepare, delicious, and sure to make your contribution unforgettable. I love how each dish adds a personal touch to the celebration, making Thanksgiving even more special!
This Was All About Thanksgiving Potluck Ideas Everyone Will Love and Remember
Please note, this post may contain Amazon affiliate links as part of their program. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. All opinions expressed here are entirely my own, based on my personal experience and research.
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