As families gather for Thanksgiving, the spotlight on thanksgiving dishes is sharper than ever, with fresh data revealing which sides, desserts, and main-course alternatives are shaping the 2025 holiday menu. Recent reports underscore two major themes: tradition remains powerful, and innovation is quietly rising.
New Patterns in Thanksgiving Dishes
One key shift: 63% of Americans say they prefer side-dishes over the main entrée this year, up significantly from 56% in 2024. The most-loved side? Stuffing (or dressing) — still the top choice in 42 states. Another trend: more households plan to host the meal at home — 97% of Thanksgiving dinners in 2025 are expected to take place either at home or at someone else’s home.
Let’s dig deeper into what this means for your table.
1. The Traditional Staples Are Holding Strong
Although new twists abound, thanksgiving dishes that are “classic” remain central. Surveys show that stuffing/dressing continues to dominate holiday menus nationwide. Other staples include mashed potatoes, sweet potato dishes, and the iconic green bean casserole. These dishes anchor the meal, especially as many families prioritise tradition. A survey found 55% of Americans say they have a family-recipe for Thanksgiving that’s over 25 years old.
2. Side-Dish Innovation and Retro Flavours
While classics remain, thanksgiving dishes are showing creative variation in 2025. One major development: squash sides (roasted, mashed, maple-drizzled) are experiencing a surge in popularity. Meanwhile, social-media and brand launches reflect the shift: for example, a large food brand released an apple-pie-flavoured macaroni and cheese for the season, blending dessert and side-dish concepts. These developments show that even “standard” sides are being reimagined. The result: thanksgiving dishes that feel familiar but also fresh.
3. Cost, Hosting and Consumer Behaviour
Another dimension shaping thanksgiving dishes is cost and hosting habits. According to the latest holiday index, the combined cost of turkey, sides and sparkling cider for a meal for eight is about US$76.50 — up only 0.6% from 2024. So while food-at-home inflation remains, meal-cost increases are modest this year. Still, shoppers are value-conscious:
- 78% say Thanksgiving meals are an important tradition in their culture.
- 43% plan to include a “second protein” (for example, fish, brisket, chicken) in addition to turkey.
- 61% intend to balance indulgent thanksgiving dishes with healthier options.
With an average expected guest-list of around eight to nine people per host, efficient cooking and well-planned side-dishes are more important than ever.
4. Table Spread: What to Consider This Year
Based on current reports, here are smart take-aways when you’re planning your spread of thanksgiving dishes:
- Focus on beloved sides: Make sure your menu includes stuffing/dressing, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes and green bean casserole. These remain widely preferred.
- Introduce one standout side: Consider a trending dish like maple-drizzled squash or a creative twist on macaroni and cheese to spark excitement.
- Balance cost and portions: With food prices stabilising, an efficient approach is to plan for a core set of dishes and add one premium or unique item.
- Serve meaningful tradition: With over half of holiday hosts using a family recipe passed down generations, incorporating a sentimental dish can heighten connection and meaning on the table.
- Adapt for dietary variety: Given rising interest in second proteins and healthier options, consider adding a plant-based or lighter side alongside traditional rich ones.
5. What To Watch in 2025 and Beyond
Here are brewing trends within the realm of thanksgiving dishes:
- Handheld or fusion formats: Some social-media creators are re-imagining thanksgiving dishes as tacos, sandwiches or portable versions.
- Cultural and regional diversity: With growth in multi-cultural households retaining heritage recipes, the variety of thanksgiving dishes is broadening.
- Shortcuts and smart prep: Recipes and hosting advice emphasise ease and convenience—air-fryers for sides, make-ahead casseroles, and streamlined preparation.
As thanksgiving dishes evolve, the common thread remains: food that brings people together.
Conclusion
This year’s emphasis on thanksgiving dishes offers a balanced picture: time-honoured favourites continue to anchor meals, while new ideas and frugal, efficient hosting practices shape the experience. Whether you’re sticking with your family’s classic side recipe or experimenting with a bold new dish, the goal remains the same — bringing warmth, connection and comfort to the table.
What thanksgiving dishes are you most excited to serve this year? Share in the comments or keep an eye on fresh ideas ahead.