Thanksgiving potlucks make the holiday easier and more enjoyable. Instead of one person doing all the cooking, everyone brings a dish to share, creating a table filled with variety.
Potluck dishes should be simple, easy to transport, and tasty for a crowd. From appetizers to desserts, there are plenty of recipes that work well for gatherings. The best Thanksgiving potluck ideas include classics and creative twists that guests will love.
Whether you’re planning to bring a side, a hearty main, or a sweet treat, there’s something here for everyone.
These 50 Thanksgiving potluck ideas are flavorful, easy to prepare, and perfect for sharing, ensuring that your holiday celebration feels festive, stress-free, and full of delicious options for all.
1. Classic Green Bean Casserole
This casserole is a timeless favorite made with green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions. It’s simple, comforting, and pairs well with nearly every dish on the table.
Easy to bake in advance, this classic green bean casserole is a go-to side that always gets finished quickly at Thanksgiving potluck gatherings.
2. Sweet Potato Casserole
Sweet potato casserole is a sweet and savory dish perfect for potlucks. Mashed sweet potatoes are baked with butter, sugar, and a topping of marshmallows or crunchy pecans.
This dish is cozy, filling, and a staple at many holiday gatherings, making it one of the most popular sides to bring for Thanksgiving.
3. Mashed Potatoes with Gravy
Mashed potatoes with gravy are always a hit at potlucks. Creamy, buttery potatoes topped with rich gravy make the perfect comfort food.
This dish is easy to prepare in large batches and pairs wonderfully with turkey, stuffing, or vegetables, ensuring it remains a reliable choice for holiday gatherings year after year.
4. Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Roasted Brussels sprouts are a simple yet flavorful side dish. Tossed with olive oil, salt, and pepper, they are roasted until caramelized and tender.
For added taste, balsamic glaze or bacon can be included. This dish travels well and provides a healthy option that adds balance to the rich foods on the table.
5. Cranberry Sauce
Cranberry sauce adds a tangy, refreshing element to Thanksgiving potlucks. Made by cooking cranberries with sugar and orange juice, it delivers a sweet and tart flavor.
Easy to prepare in advance, this sauce complements turkey, stuffing, and casseroles. It’s a colorful, simple dish that brightens the table and balances heavier flavors perfectly.
6. Cornbread Stuffing
Cornbread stuffing is a flavorful and hearty dish that’s always welcome at potlucks. It combines cornbread, onions, celery, herbs, and broth to create a savory, filling side.
This dish is easy to prepare ahead of time and reheats well, making it a practical and tasty contribution for a Thanksgiving gathering.
7. Roasted Carrots with Honey Glaze
Roasted carrots with honey glaze are both colorful and delicious. Fresh carrots are tossed in olive oil, honey, and herbs, then roasted until tender and caramelized.
This side dish is simple to prepare, easy to transport, and adds a naturally sweet flavor that pairs well with savory holiday dishes at a Thanksgiving potluck.
8. Baked Mac and Cheese
Baked mac and cheese is a rich, comforting dish loved by all ages. Pasta is coated in creamy cheese sauce and topped with breadcrumbs or extra cheese before baking.
It’s easy to prepare in large batches and travels well. This dish is a potluck favorite that feels hearty and indulgent during Thanksgiving.
9. Deviled Eggs
Deviled eggs are a classic appetizer that’s quick to prepare and easy to serve. Made with boiled eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and seasoning, they are creamy, flavorful, and bite-sized.
They can be prepared in advance and served cold, making them a convenient and crowd-pleasing option for a Thanksgiving potluck gathering.
10. Garlic Butter Dinner Rolls
Garlic butter dinner rolls are soft, fluffy, and flavorful. Baked to perfection and brushed with garlic butter, they are the ideal side to complement turkey, gravy, or stuffing.
These rolls are easy to bake in batches, simple to transport, and always disappear quickly at potluck dinners, making them a reliable choice.
11. Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin soup is a warm and comforting dish for Thanksgiving. Made with pumpkin puree, broth, cream, and spices, it’s smooth, flavorful, and festive.
This soup can be made in advance and served in large bowls or cups, offering a seasonal appetizer that feels cozy and welcoming at holiday gatherings.
12. Autumn Waldorf Salad
Autumn Waldorf salad is refreshing and crunchy, perfect for balancing heavier dishes. It combines apples, celery, grapes, and walnuts with a creamy dressing.
This salad is simple to assemble and transport, making it a great potluck option. It adds freshness and a light texture to the Thanksgiving table for everyone to enjoy.
13. Spinach Artichoke Dip
Spinach artichoke dip is a creamy appetizer loved at gatherings. Made with spinach, artichokes, cream cheese, and parmesan, it’s baked until hot and bubbly. Served with bread or crackers, it’s easy to share at potlucks. This dish is quick to prepare and always one of the most popular starters at Thanksgiving events.
14. Maple Glazed Salmon
Maple glazed salmon is a tasty main dish alternative to turkey. Salmon fillets are brushed with a sweet maple glaze and baked until tender.
It’s easy to prepare and transport, making it a unique contribution to potlucks. This dish offers variety for guests who enjoy seafood alongside traditional Thanksgiving dishes.
15. Stuffed Mushrooms
Stuffed mushrooms are bite-sized appetizers perfect for sharing. Mushroom caps are filled with a mix of breadcrumbs, herbs, sausage, or cheese, then baked until golden.
They are flavorful, easy to prepare, and a great finger food option. Stuffed mushrooms bring variety to the table and are always enjoyed at Thanksgiving potlucks.
16. Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine is a simple yet elegant side dish. Green beans are sautéed with butter, garlic, and topped with toasted almonds.
This dish is light, flavorful, and pairs well with many mains. Easy to prepare and serve, it’s a Thanksgiving potluck idea that balances out heavier, richer dishes on the table.
17. Apple Cranberry Crisp
Apple cranberry crisp is a warm and comforting dessert perfect for potlucks. Apples and cranberries are baked with sugar and spices, topped with a buttery oat crumble.
It’s simple to prepare and travels well. This dessert adds a fruity, seasonal option to the Thanksgiving table that both kids and adults will enjoy.
18. Pecan Pie Bars
Pecan pie bars are a portable version of the classic pie. A buttery crust is topped with sweet, nutty pecan filling, baked, and cut into squares.
These bars are easy to serve, transport, and enjoy. They’re a perfect potluck dessert option, offering all the flavor of pecan pie in a convenient form.
19. Creamed Corn
Creamed corn is a classic Thanksgiving side that’s rich and creamy. Made with corn kernels, cream, and butter, it’s simple yet flavorful.
This dish is easy to prepare in large batches and reheats well. Creamed corn pairs perfectly with turkey, stuffing, or mashed potatoes, making it a reliable choice for potluck dinners.
20. Broccoli Cheddar Casserole
Broccoli cheddar casserole is a comforting dish made with broccoli, cheese, and creamy sauce. Topped with breadcrumbs, it’s baked until golden and bubbly.
This dish is easy to prepare, transports well, and appeals to both kids and adults. It’s a hearty, flavorful side that’s perfect for sharing at Thanksgiving potluck gatherings.
21. Wild Rice Pilaf
Wild rice pilaf is a wholesome and flavorful side dish. It’s made with wild rice, broth, dried fruits, nuts, and herbs for a nutty, chewy texture.
This dish is simple to prepare, easy to transport, and provides a lighter alternative to heavier sides. It adds variety and balance to Thanksgiving potlucks.
22. Bacon-Wrapped Asparagus
Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a savory side dish or appetizer. Fresh asparagus spears are wrapped in bacon and roasted until crispy.
This dish is easy to prepare, looks elegant, and travels well. Bacon-wrapped asparagus is a great option for potlucks, offering a flavorful, bite-sized choice that’s sure to impress guests.
23. Butternut Squash Soup
Butternut squash soup is creamy, smooth, and full of flavor. Made with roasted squash, broth, cream, and spices, it’s a comforting starter for Thanksgiving.
This dish can be prepared in advance and easily transported in containers. It’s a warm, seasonal soup that sets the tone for a cozy holiday gathering.
24. Cornbread Muffins
Cornbread muffins are simple, portable, and perfect for potlucks. Made with cornbread batter, these muffins are baked in individual portions, making them easy to serve.
They pair well with chili, turkey, or casseroles, adding a touch of sweetness to the table. Cornbread muffins are always a popular choice at Thanksgiving gatherings.
25. Garlic Herb Roasted Potatoes
Garlic herb roasted potatoes are crispy on the outside and soft inside. Tossed with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, they are baked until golden.
This dish is easy to prepare, travel-friendly, and pairs well with many mains. It’s a simple, crowd-pleasing side that works perfectly for Thanksgiving potluck celebrations.
26. Sausage Cornbread Dressing
Sausage cornbread dressing is a hearty and flavorful dish. Made with crumbled cornbread, sausage, onions, celery, and herbs, it’s baked until golden.
This side dish is easy to transport and reheats well, making it an excellent option for potlucks. It’s rich, filling, and a favorite during holiday meals.
27. Mashed Cauliflower
Mashed cauliflower is a lighter alternative to mashed potatoes. Steamed cauliflower is blended with butter, cream, and seasoning to create a smooth, creamy dish.
It’s easy to prepare and travels well, making it a great addition to potlucks. Mashed cauliflower provides a healthier side while still feeling comforting and delicious.
28. Cranberry Jello Salad
Cranberry Jello salad is a fun, colorful side dish. It combines cranberry gelatin with fruit, marshmallows, or nuts for added texture.
This dish is simple to make, easy to carry, and a nostalgic favorite at many holiday gatherings. It brings brightness and sweetness to the Thanksgiving table, making it kid-friendly too.
29. Apple Walnut Salad
Apple walnut salad is a refreshing, crunchy side dish. It’s made with apple slices, walnuts, greens, and a light vinaigrette dressing.
This salad balances the richness of Thanksgiving mains and is easy to assemble in advance. It travels well and adds a crisp, fresh flavor to the potluck table.
30. Spinach Berry Salad
Spinach berry salad combines baby spinach with strawberries, blueberries, or raspberries, tossed in a light balsamic dressing. It’s colorful, refreshing, and easy to prepare.
This dish balances heavier Thanksgiving foods and provides a lighter, healthier option. Spinach berry salad is simple to transport and always a refreshing addition to potluck gatherings.
31. Turkey Meatballs
Turkey meatballs are a great appetizer or side dish for potlucks. Made from ground turkey, breadcrumbs, and spices, they are baked or cooked in sauce.
These meatballs are flavorful, bite-sized, and easy to serve. They travel well and provide a protein-rich option that’s different from the usual Thanksgiving mains.
32. Cheddar Cheese Strata
Cheddar cheese strata is a savory breakfast-style casserole made with bread, eggs, cheese, and milk. It’s baked until golden and puffy, creating a hearty dish perfect for potlucks.
Strata can be prepared ahead of time and reheated, making it a convenient and filling addition to Thanksgiving celebrations.
33. Pumpkin Cheesecake
Pumpkin cheesecake is a creamy dessert that’s perfect for the season. Made with pumpkin puree, cream cheese, and warm spices on a graham cracker crust, it’s rich and flavorful.
This dessert is easy to slice and serve at potlucks, making it a festive alternative to traditional pies.
34. Chocolate Pecan Pie
Chocolate pecan pie is a sweet and indulgent dessert. It combines the nutty flavor of pecan pie with rich chocolate filling.
This dessert is easy to prepare, travels well, and offers a twist on a holiday classic. Chocolate pecan pie is always a hit at Thanksgiving potlucks, satisfying chocolate lovers too.
35. Carrot Cake
Carrot cake is a moist, spiced cake topped with cream cheese frosting. Made with shredded carrots and sometimes nuts, it’s flavorful and festive.
This dessert can be baked in advance, sliced easily, and transported to gatherings. Carrot cake adds variety to the dessert table and is a potluck favorite.
36. Buckeye Balls
Buckeye balls are a no-bake dessert made with peanut butter and chocolate. Bite-sized and easy to transport, they are perfect for potlucks.
These treats are simple to prepare and don’t require reheating, making them convenient for gatherings. Buckeye balls are sweet, rich, and always popular during Thanksgiving celebrations.
37. Apple Sheet Cake
Apple sheet cake is a moist cake baked in a large pan, topped with apple pieces and spices. It’s easy to slice into squares and share at potlucks.
This dessert is flavorful, simple to transport, and makes a great seasonal addition to the Thanksgiving dessert table.
38. Molasses Cookies
Molasses cookies are soft, spiced treats perfect for the holiday. Made with molasses, ginger, and cinnamon, they are chewy and flavorful.
These cookies are easy to bake in large batches and simple to transport. They’re a great snack or dessert that adds warmth and spice to Thanksgiving potluck celebrations.
39. Sweet Potato Pie
Sweet potato pie is a holiday classic made with spiced sweet potato filling in a pie crust. It’s smooth, flavorful, and perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings.
This dessert is easy to bake, transport, and slice at potlucks, making it a reliable choice for holiday dessert tables.
40. Lemon Bars
Lemon bars are a tangy dessert that adds brightness to the table. With a buttery crust and tart lemon filling, they’re baked and cut into squares for easy serving.
Lemon bars are simple to make, portable, and balance the richness of heavier holiday desserts at Thanksgiving potlucks.
41. Cream Puffs
Cream puffs are delicate pastries filled with whipped cream or custard. They are light, airy, and easy to enjoy at gatherings.
Cream puffs can be made ahead and stored in containers, making them practical for potlucks. They add an elegant and sweet touch to the Thanksgiving dessert spread.
42. Berry Trifle
Berry trifle is a layered dessert made with cake, pudding, whipped cream, and berries. Served in a large bowl or cups, it looks colorful and festive.
This dessert is easy to assemble and serves a crowd, making it an excellent choice for potluck gatherings during Thanksgiving.
43. Pumpkin Bread
Pumpkin bread is a moist, spiced quick bread made with pumpkin puree. It’s easy to bake, slice, and transport, making it ideal for potlucks.
Pumpkin bread adds a seasonal touch to the table, offering a simple yet flavorful option for holiday gatherings.
44. Cranberry Orange Scones
Cranberry orange scones are a sweet and tangy baked treat. Made with fresh cranberries and orange zest, they’re soft, flaky, and festive.
These scones are easy to bake ahead and transport to potlucks. They add variety to the dessert table and pair well with coffee or tea at gatherings.
45. Maple Walnut Fudge
Maple walnut fudge is a rich, sweet treat made with maple syrup and walnuts. It’s smooth, creamy, and cut into squares for serving.
This fudge is easy to prepare in advance and portable, making it a convenient potluck dessert. It’s a festive sweet that guests will love at Thanksgiving gatherings.
46. Mini Pecan Tarts
Mini pecan tarts are bite-sized versions of the classic pie. Made with buttery crusts and sweet pecan filling, they’re easy to prepare and serve.
These tarts are portable, portioned perfectly, and a great addition to the potluck dessert table, ensuring everyone can enjoy a sweet treat.
47. Apple Cider Donuts
Apple cider donuts are a seasonal favorite for Thanksgiving. Flavored with apple cider and spices, they’re baked or fried, then coated in cinnamon sugar.
These donuts are easy to transport and serve at gatherings. Apple cider donuts add a festive, comforting option to the potluck dessert selection.
48. Pumpkin Whoopie Pies
Pumpkin whoopie pies are a fun dessert made with soft pumpkin cakes sandwiched around cream filling.
They are portable, portioned individually, and easy to share at potlucks. This treat is festive, flavorful, and always a crowd-pleaser at Thanksgiving gatherings.
49. Chocolate Avocado Mousse
Chocolate avocado mousse is a creamy dessert with a healthier twist. Made with ripe avocados, cocoa, and sweetener, it’s smooth and rich.
This mousse is easy to prepare in advance and portion into cups for serving at potlucks. It’s a unique option that adds variety to the dessert table.
50. Cinnamon Sugar Pecans
Cinnamon sugar pecans are a simple snack perfect for potlucks. Pecans are coated in sugar and cinnamon, then roasted until crunchy.
This treat is easy to prepare in large batches and pack in containers. Cinnamon sugar pecans are sweet, portable, and always a hit at Thanksgiving gatherings.
Conclusion
Thanksgiving potluck ideas bring variety, balance, and fun to the table. These 50 dishes include sides, mains, and desserts that are easy to prepare and transport. By sharing the cooking, everyone gets to enjoy a stress-free meal filled with seasonal flavors. Try a few of these potluck ideas this holiday, and your gathering will feel festive, delicious, and memorable.
