Food

51 Thanksgiving Potluck Ideas, from Make-Ahead Casseroles to Appetizers and Desserts

You'll be everyone's favorite guest

Katherine Gillen

By Katherine Gillen

Published Sep 25, 2024

Additional reporting by
Lizzy Rosenberg & Taryn Pire
thanksgiving potluck recipes: hasselback butternut squash, roasted squash and lentil salad, and cranberry curd cookies, side by side

So, you’re heading to a Friendsgiving celebration. Or maybe you’re joining family for the holiday. Either way, one question remains: What tasty dish are you going to bring? Don’t panic: I’ve come up with 51 festive Thanksgiving potluck ideas that are just right for the occasion.

Whether the vibe is elegant or more of a casserole-casual affair, these appetizers (like bacon jam), sides (ooh, cauliflower gratin) and desserts (hello, three-ingredient chocolate truffles) are guaranteed to win over a crowd—including your persnickety aunt. Even better, my picks are easy to make ahead, transport and reheat. Read on for some seriously seasonal inspo.

Former Senior Food Editor

Katherine Gillen

Former Senior Food Editor

  • Headed PureWow’s food vertical
  • Contributed original reporting, recipes and food styling
  • Studied English Literature at the University of Notre Dame and Culinary Arts at the Institute of Culinary Education

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