Friendsgiving has become one of the most beloved traditions for friend groups across the country—a chance to gather, reflect, and share a meal with those who feel like family. If you’re planning or attending a Friendsgiving potluck, you’ll want to impress with dishes that are memorable, delicious, and bring a unique twist to classic favorites. Here’s a list of some of the best options, including innovative takes on Thanksgiving staples and crowd-pleasers with international inspiration.
Traditional Thanksgiving foods hold a special place in our hearts, but they can become predictable. If you want to stay true to classic flavors while keeping things interesting, here are a couple of creative updates.
Macaroni and Cheese with a Crunchy Topping
Macaroni and cheese is already a fan favorite, but you can elevate this comfort food to legendary status with a crunchy topping. Start by making a creamy cheese sauce with a blend of cheddar, Gruyere, and a hint of smoked Gouda for depth. After combining it with pasta, sprinkle a mixture of panko breadcrumbs, herbs like thyme and rosemary, and a bit of melted butter over the top. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and the topping is golden brown. This dish delivers all the comfort of traditional mac and cheese with a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Stuffing Muffins
Stuffing is a staple at Thanksgiving tables, but serving it in individual portions gives it a modern twist. Make your stuffing mixture as you normally would—using your choice of bread, vegetables, herbs, and seasoning—but instead of baking it in a casserole dish, scoop it into a muffin tin. Each “muffin” will have a crispy exterior and a soft, flavorful interior. They’re easy to serve, fun to eat, and perfect for guests to grab and go.
Friendsgiving is all about bringing together diverse groups of people, so why not let your food reflect that? Consider including dishes that draw inspiration from global flavors while still fitting in with the holiday theme.
Pumpkin Curry
Pumpkin is a Thanksgiving favorite, but instead of the usual pie, take a savory route with a pumpkin curry. Start with roasted pumpkin cubes simmered in a sauce made with coconut milk, ginger, garlic, onions, and a blend of spices like cumin, turmeric, and garam masala. The result is a rich, aromatic dish that balances sweetness and spice. Serve it with warm naan bread or steamed rice, and you’ve got a dish that’s unique, satisfying, and perfect for a chilly November evening.
Spicy Cranberry Salsa
Cranberry sauce is essential for Thanksgiving, but give it an upgrade by turning it into a spicy cranberry salsa. Combine fresh cranberries with chopped jalapeños, cilantro, red onions, lime juice, a touch of sugar, and a pinch of salt. The result is a zesty, tangy, and slightly spicy condiment that pairs beautifully with turkey and adds a burst of flavor to other dishes on the table. It can also double as a dip for chips!
For Friendsgiving hosts who want to ensure everyone—meat-eaters and vegetarians alike—leaves the table happy and full, these vegetarian-friendly options are as hearty as they are delicious.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping
This dish is a classic, but it can easily be made vegetarian (and even vegan with a few tweaks). Boil or roast sweet potatoes and mash them with brown sugar, a splash of orange juice, cinnamon, and nutmeg for extra flavor. Spread the mash in a baking dish and top with a layer of chopped pecans mixed with a bit of brown sugar and melted butter (or a plant-based alternative). Bake until golden brown. The contrasting textures of creamy sweet potatoes and crunchy pecans make for an irresistible side dish.
Mushroom Wellington
For vegetarians looking for a main course that’s just as special as a turkey, a Mushroom Wellington fits the bill. Sauté a mix of mushrooms, onions, garlic, spinach, and fresh herbs until they’re rich and savory. Spread the mixture over a puff pastry sheet, roll it up, and bake until golden brown. The result is a crispy, flaky pastry filled with a hearty mushroom filling that even meat-eaters will love.
For those living in San Francisco, preparing for Friendsgiving can be even more special with the help of local culinary communities. One such resource is BiteUnite, a co-working kitchen and café where chefs, food entrepreneurs, and culinary enthusiasts can collaborate, learn, and share their passion for food. BiteUnite also offers workshops and pop-up events that provide opportunities to explore unique recipes and hone your cooking skills ahead of the big day. For more details, visit BiteUnite's website.
With these mouthwatering dishes and a bit of planning, your Friendsgiving potluck will surely be the highlight of the season. Whether you’re bringing a twist on a classic favorite or introducing something new, it’s all about enjoying good food and great company. So gather your friends, get cooking, and let the holiday memories begin!