Friendsgiving is like Thanksgiving, but with a twist—it’s all about celebrating with your chosen family. The food often reflects that too, blending traditional favorites with creative, sometimes quirky, potluck dishes. Ever had mac and cheese at a Thanksgiving table? At Friendsgiving, it might just steal the spotlight. The vibe is casual, fun, and a little unpredictable, making it the perfect chance to experiment with flavors, making your friendsgiving menu simply the best.
I remember one year, someone brought a “Thanksgiving pizza” with turkey and cranberry sauce. It sounded bizarre, but we devoured it. Friendsgiving is all about mixing old traditions with new ones, so why not try something bold? Whether you’re hosting or attending, think about dishes that are easy to share, fit everyone’s tastes, and—most importantly—bring a little fun to the table!
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1. Cranberry Brie Biscuit Dip
Image and Recipe by Delish
For a crowd-pleasing Friendsgiving appetizer, this cranberry brie biscuit dip is a must! It’s a warm, cheesy dip with creamy Brie, tart cranberry sauce, and fluffy biscuit pieces baked together to golden perfection. The mix of savory and sweet, with a touch of holiday flair from the cranberries, makes it an irresistible dish to share. It’s easy to prepare and serves as a fun twist on classic cheese boards or dips.
2. Butternut Squash Lasagna
Image and Recipe by AmbitiousKitchen
Looking for a cozy dish to impress at Friendsgiving? This roasted vegetable butternut squash lasagna is a delicious vegetarian option packed with layers of flavor. Roasted veggies like zucchini, carrots, and bell peppers add a hearty texture, while the creamy butternut squash sauce gives it a unique twist on traditional lasagna. The ricotta and mozzarella make it irresistibly cheesy, and it’s all tucked between tender lasagna noodles. A perfect blend of comfort and freshness that will definitely stand out at your gathering!
3. Pecan Pie Bars
Image and Recipe by Natasha’sKitchen
These pecan pie bars are a delightful alternative to classic pecan pie, combining a buttery shortbread crust with a gooey, caramelized pecan filling. They’re easy to make and perfect for sharing at Friendsgiving. The rich, nutty flavors and crisp, crunchy and chewy textures are irresistibly satisfying. Plus, you can make them ahead of time and even freeze them for later!
Did you know? Pecans are native to North America and were a staple in Native American diets long before becoming a dessert favorite!
4. Thanksgiving Charcuterie Board
Image and Recipe by ThePioneerWoman
A Thanksgiving charcuterie board is a fun, crowd-pleasing way to kick off your Friendsgiving gathering. Packed with seasonal favorites, this board can feature cured meats, cheeses, fresh fruits, and even autumnal treats like dried cranberries, roasted nuts, and mini pies. It’s all about variety—think of mixing textures, flavors, and colors for a stunning display that’s both delicious and festive. Perfect for grazing before the main feast!
5. Pumpkin-Shaped Challah
Image and Recipe by DomesticGothess
This vegan pumpkin challah is a show-stopping Friendsgiving treat! The pumpkin puree gives the bread a beautiful orange hue and a slight sweetness, while warm spices add a seasonal touch. Despite its intricate braided appearance, the recipe is surprisingly easy to follow with clear step-by-step instructions. You can make one large loaf or two smaller ones, and it pairs perfectly with both savory dishes and sweet spreads. Plus, it smells incredible as it bakes! A festive, flavorful, and impressive addition to any holiday table.
6. Roasted Turkey Legs
Image and Recipe by Delish
For a Friendsgiving twist, try roasted turkey legs. They’re juicy, flavorful, and far less daunting than a whole bird! This recipe uses simple seasoning, garlic, herbs, and a bit of lemon for a zesty finish. The legs roast until golden and crispy, perfect for sharing.
Did you know turkey legs are often more flavorful than the breast due to their higher fat content? That means they’re less likely to dry out, making them ideal for smaller holiday gatherings. Pair with gravy, and you’re set!
7. Stuffed Turkey Breast
Image and Recipe by CremeDelaCrumb
This stuffed turkey breast recipe is a flavorful and elegant alternative to a full bird, perfect for Friendsgiving! The turkey is filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, spinach, herbs, and bacon, then rolled up and roasted to juicy perfection. It’s quick to prepare and bakes in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for smaller gatherings.
Did you know? You can also swap the bacon for pancetta or skip it entirely for a veggie version! This dish is customizable and guaranteed to impress your guests.
8. Cornbread Stuffing
Image and Recipe by WellPlatedByErin
This cornbread sausage stuffing combines the sweetness of homemade cornbread with savory Italian sausage, apples, and cranberries for a perfect holiday side. It’s hearty, flavorful, and packed with herbs like sage and thyme. This dish strikes the perfect balance between sweet and savory, and you can even make it ahead of time for easier meal prep.
Did you know? Stuffing made with cornbread has a wonderful texture that’s both crumbly and moist, making it a festive Southern-inspired favorite.
9. Thanksgiving Potato Skins
Image and Recipe by ThreeOlivesBranch
Tired of the usual leftover Thanksgiving sandwiches? These Thanksgiving Leftovers Potato Skins are a game-changer! Crispy potato shells are stuffed with layers of stuffing, turkey, and gooey cheese, then baked to perfection. Topped with a spoonful of cranberry sauce and served alongside gravy for dipping, they’re a delicious and fun way to reimagine your holiday leftovers. Perfect for Friendsgiving or a cozy snack, you can even swap in other leftovers like green bean casserole. Quick, tasty, and a creative twist on post-holiday meals!
10. Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots
Image and Recipe by Diethood
These Parmesan Garlic Roasted Carrots are a simple, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for Friendsgiving! The carrots are tossed in a savory mix of melted butter, garlic, Italian seasoning, and Parmesan cheese, then roasted until tender and golden. The natural sweetness of the carrots is beautifully complemented by the cheesy, garlicky coating, making them irresistible. Plus, they only take 5 minutes to prep! Serve them alongside roasted meats, or mix with other veggies for a colorful, tasty spread.
11. Caramel Apple Cookies
Image and Recipe by ThePioneerWoman
For a Friendsgiving dessert, try these delicious Caramel Apple Cookies. They combine the warm flavors of cinnamon, tart apples, and gooey caramel, capturing the essence of a caramel apple in soft, chewy cookie form. The buttery base gives a perfect balance of sweetness and spice, making these cookies a fall favorite.
Did you know? Caramel apples have been a popular fall treat since the 1950s when a Kraft Foods employee created the first one as a way to use up extra Halloween caramels.
12. Gnocchi Stuffing
Image and Recipe by Delish
Ever tried stuffing with a twist? This Gnocchi Stuffing combines the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi with all the cozy flavors of traditional stuffing. Tossed with sage, onions, celery, and bread cubes, the gnocchi adds a heartier, more indulgent bite. It’s a delicious, unexpected side dish perfect for Friendsgiving, especially if you want something fun and different! It’s sure to be a conversation starter.
13. Sweet Potato Fries
Image and Recipe by CookieAndKate
These Baked Sweet Potato Fries are a healthier yet delicious alternative to traditional fries. Cut into wedges, they’re lightly coated in olive oil, cornstarch, and spices, giving them a crispy exterior while staying tender inside. The perfect side for Friendsgiving, these fries are naturally sweet, with a touch of warmth from paprika or cayenne. A squeeze of lime or a dip in creamy sauces takes them to the next level!
14. Apple Cheddar Tart
Image and Recipe by TastingWithTina
This 5-Ingredient Apple and White Cheddar Tart is a perfect balance of sweet and savory, making it an elegant Friendsgiving appetizer. Using flaky puff pastry, it’s topped with sharp white cheddar and thinly sliced apples, then baked to golden perfection. A drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of fresh thyme add a gourmet touch. Quick to make and visually stunning, this tart is ideal for impressing guests without much fuss.
15. Apple Pie Stuffed Cupcakes
Image and Recipe by BarenBakery
These apple pie cupcakes combine the best of both worlds: a moist spiced cupcake base, filled with tender apple pie filling, and topped with a heavenly cream cheese whipped cream. A buttery streusel adds the perfect crunch. The cupcake batter is enriched with cinnamon and nutmeg, while the apples are cooked to a tender, caramelized perfection. Ideal for Friendsgiving, these cupcakes offer the nostalgia of classic apple pie in a more portable, party-friendly form.
Try them out for your fall gathering!
16. Creamy Parmesan Spinach Orzo
Image and Recipe by CremeDelaCrumb
Creamy, cheesy, and garlicky—this Parmesan spinach orzo is a crowd-pleasing side that takes just 20 minutes to whip up! The tender orzo is bathed in a velvety sauce made with garlic, spinach, and Parmesan cheese, finished with a hint of lemon zest for a fresh twist. It’s an easy, one-pot dish that pairs well with grilled meats or seafood, but is also perfect on its own. This versatile recipe is a cozy addition to any Friendsgiving table.
17. Creamed Brussels Sprouts
Image and Recipe by Delish
These creamy Brussels sprouts are perfect for any Friendsgiving feast! The Brussels sprouts are sautéed until golden, then smothered in a rich, garlic-infused cream sauce. A sprinkle of Parmesan adds extra indulgence, creating a dish that’s comforting, flavorful, and a perfect side to balance out your turkey or mains. It’s an easy and delicious way to elevate a sometimes underappreciated veggie.
18. Friendsgiving Nachos
Image and Recipe by ChoosingBalance
These Buffalo Chicken Sheet Pan Nachos are a game-changer for Friendsgiving! They’re loaded with shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce, layered over crispy tortilla chips, and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and jalapeños. After a quick bake, they’re finished with ranch, cilantro, and green onions for the ultimate crowd-pleasing dish. Ready in just 15 minutes, these nachos are perfect for sharing.
Did you know? Sheet pan nachos help keep your chips crispy while evenly melting the cheese, making every bite perfect!
19. Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip
Image and Recipe by ThePioneerWoman
For Friendsgiving, this Bacon Cheddar Ranch Dip is a crowd-pleaser that’s super simple to make. Creamy ranch, sharp cheddar, crispy bacon, and green onions come together for a dip that’s perfect with chips, veggies, or crackers. It’s loaded with savory, cheesy goodness and just the right amount of crunch. This dish is a sure hit whether you serve it as an appetizer or a side.
Did you know? The combination of bacon, cheddar, and ranch is so popular that it has its own acronym—BCR—often used in menu items!
20. Cranberry Brie Bites
Image and Recipe by ThePioneerWoman
These Cranberry Brie Bites are a delightful blend of sweet, tart, and creamy flavors. Made with puff pastry, cranberry sauce, and gooey brie, these bite-sized appetizers are quick to prepare but feel fancy enough to impress. The buttery pastry crisps up beautifully, creating the perfect contrast to the melted brie and tangy cranberries.
Did you know? Brie cheese, originally from France, is often referred to as the “Queen of Cheeses” due to its creamy texture and luxurious taste.
FAQS
Q: What are some easy Friendsgiving food ideas?
A: Try potluck-friendly dishes like roasted veggies, mashed potatoes, mac and cheese, or a simple green bean casserole.
Q: Can I make traditional Thanksgiving food for Friendsgiving?
A: Absolutely! Turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce are all perfect for Friendsgiving.
Q: What’s a good dessert for Friendsgiving?
A: Pumpkin pie, maple apple crisp, or even brownies are great options.
Q: Should Friendsgiving dishes be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, many dishes like casseroles or pies can be prepped ahead to save time.
Q: Any vegetarian-friendly Friendsgiving recipes?
A: Stuffed squash, veggie lasagna, and mushroom gravy are all tasty meat-free options.