Thanksgiving potlucks call for delicious, shareable dishes that bring something special to the table. Whether it’s a creamy side, a spicy appetizer, or a hearty casserole, these recipes are designed to be easy to make and even easier to enjoy.
With a mix of classics and fresh takes, this list has something for everyone at your gathering. Try one of these tasty ideas to make your dish the star of the Thanksgiving spread!
1. Classic Creamy Coleslaw
Opt for this crunchy, refreshing side that’s easy to whip up and loved by all—a creamy coleslaw with a smooth, tangy dressing that complements any rich holiday spread perfectly.
The shredded cabbage and carrots add a satisfying crunch and a splash of color to your plate. It’s an ideal make-ahead dish for a fuss-free potluck addition.
2. Spicy Chili Oil Noodles
Add some heat to the potluck table with homemade chili oil noodles, a spicy, savory treat for adventurous eaters. Tossed in garlicky, aromatic chili oil, these noodles pack bold flavors with every bite.
They’re simple to prepare and bring a unique twist to traditional potluck offerings, making a memorable addition to your Thanksgiving menu.
3. Elevated Caprese Salad with Black Garlic & Ricotta
This elevated Caprese salad brings together tomatoes and mozzarella with black garlic vinegar, balsamic glaze, and whipped ricotta infused with lemon and garlic confit.
Serve it with baguette slices for a dish that’s vibrant and elegant. The creamy, tangy, and savory flavors make this salad a standout. It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional Thanksgiving sides.
4. Light & Tangy Greek Yogurt Coleslaw
For a healthier twist, try this coleslaw made with a Greek yogurt dressing that’s both creamy and tangy. The yogurt adds richness without the heaviness of mayonnaise, making this dish light but satisfying.
With crisp veggies and a refreshing dressing, this coleslaw is a perfect complement to the holiday feast. It’s ideal for those looking for a fresh, flavorful side.
5. Creamed Spinach & Maque Choux Mashup
Combine creamy spinach with the sweet and savory flavors of maque choux—a Louisiana-style corn dish. The creamy, flavorful blend of spinach, corn, and bell peppers adds warmth and comfort to the table.
It pairs well with turkey, ham, or just about any holiday dish. A delightful twist on traditional creamed spinach, it’s sure to be a hit.
6. Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts with Mayo Dip
Nothing says fall like bacon-wrapped Brussels sprouts, roasted to perfection and paired with a balsamic mayo dip. The sprouts are crispy, smoky, and satisfying, while the tangy dip adds a creamy balance.
It’s a simple yet impressive appetizer, and will likely disappear fast! It’s a great option for potluck finger food that’s packed with flavor.
7. Cowboy Caviar with a Kick
Cowboy caviar is a vibrant mix of beans, corn, bell peppers, and avocado, tossed in a tangy dressing for a fresh and colorful dish.
It’s perfect with tortilla chips and adds a Southwest flair to your Thanksgiving potluck. Loaded with flavor and texture, this dish is as healthy as it is delicious. Its bold flavors are sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
8. Cheesy Taco Casserole
Casserole is a hearty dish loaded with seasoned ground beef, refried beans, onions, and melted cheese, all layered on a flaky crescent roll crust.
With cheddar and mozzarella melted on top, it’s savory, satisfying, and full of flavor. This crowd-pleaser brings a bit of Tex-Mex flair to your potluck table. It’s easy to make and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd.
9. Creamy Japanese Potato Salad
Japanese potato salad is a creamy, mildly sweet twist on the classic, made with soft potatoes and a variety of veggies. The dressing is light, smooth, and flavorful, with a hint of sweetness that’s sure to stand out.
It’s a unique take that brings something fresh to the table. This dish is perfect for anyone wanting to try a different take on potato salad.
10. Crispy Baked Buffalo Wings
Buffalo wings are baked to crispy perfection and then coated in a zesty homemade buffalo sauce. They’re spicy, tangy, and incredibly flavorful, making them an instant hit for any potluck.
Perfectly crispy without the deep frying, they offer all the indulgence with less mess. Serve with a side of ranch or blue cheese dip to complete this crowd-pleasing dish.
11. Herb-Infused Macaroni Salad
Pack the macaroni salad with fresh herbs and spices for a flavorful twist on the classic. It’s creamy, slightly tangy, and full of texture, making it a refreshing side for the Thanksgiving table.
The herbs add an aromatic touch that elevates the traditional pasta salad. It’s a light, flavorful option that balances out the heavier holiday dishes.
12. Colorful Bow-Tie Pasta Salad
Loaded with fresh vegetables and seasoned with Italian-inspired flavors, this bow-tie pasta salad is as tasty as it is beautiful. It’s a light, tangy dish that brings bright colors and crisp textures to the potluck table.
The bow-tie pasta adds a fun, festive shape that’s perfect for gatherings. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
13. Loaded Bacon & Cheese Potato Salad
Chunks of bacon, cheese, and scallions are all tossed in a creamy, tangy dressing to create the perfect potato salad. The bacon adds a smoky crunch, while the cheese brings savory depth, making it a hearty addition to your potluck.
With the tang of sour cream and mayo, each bite is loaded with flavor. It’s a rich, satisfying dish that’s always a favorite.
14. Classic Broccoli Salad with a Twist
Combine crunchy broccoli with raisins, sunflower seeds, and a creamy dressing for a sweet and savory side to get a delicious broccoli salad! It’s refreshing, light, and pairs well with heavier dishes, adding a fresh touch to the Thanksgiving lineup.
The dressing balances the natural sweetness and crunch for a perfect bite. It’s a versatile, easy-to-make dish that appeals to all ages.
15. Cheddar Bay Biscuit Breakfast Casserole
Made with fluffy cheddar bay biscuits, savory sausage, cheddar cheese, and eggs, this breakfast casserole is perfect for a cozy Thanksgiving brunch. It’s warm, cheesy, and satisfying, with all the flavors of a classic breakfast in casserole form.
The flaky biscuits and melted cheese make it irresistibly rich. This is a comforting dish that’s sure to please.
16. Frito Corn Salad
Frito corn salad is a fun, crunchy mix of corn, peppers, cheese, and Fritos, tossed in a tangy, creamy dressing. The Fritos add a salty crunch that pairs well with the sweet corn, creating a unique and satisfying combination.
It’s a playful side that brings variety to the potluck table. This unexpected dish is bound to be a hit!
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