Thanksgiving Side Dish Trends Revealed

What’s your go-to side job for Thanksgiving? Well, we all know that when it comes to this holiday, the sides are what really matter.

Campbell’s, that iconic brand known for its soups and sauces, has unveiled its fourth annual report, examining the trends surrounding holiday side dishes and recipes this November.

This report, which gathered responses from 5,000 Americans across all 50 states, reveals that a growing number of people—63%—actually prefer side dishes over turkey during Thanksgiving. This is a jump from 56% last year.

“Generations have turned to Campbell’s for their holiday side dish needs, and this year’s report confirms that those classics are still central to every holiday gathering,” Marcy Reible, from Campbell’s media strategy team, noted.

Interestingly, 47% of respondents said they would happily enjoy a plate filled solely with sides, rather than having turkey or any main dish, up from 38% last year.

For those involved in cooking, a significant 81% indicated that preparing side dishes is a way to express love and warmth to family and friends.

The preference for side dishes has proven steady, with Americans claiming it’s the most vital element of their Thanksgiving meal for the fourth consecutive year.

When it comes to specific dishes, 44% of participants declared green bean casserole—the dish that’s marking its 70th birthday this year—as the “most iconic” side. A majority of those who take their cooking seriously argue that it’s best when made the traditional way.

Macaroni and cheese has also gained traction, especially among Gen Z and Millennials. A solid 50% of these younger generations believe it should be a staple at every holiday gathering, with 41% of Gen Z agreeing and 62% of Millennials falling in line.

In terms of rankings, stuffing—the dish often referred to as dressing—was again named the top side for the second year running, while mashed potatoes maintained their spot in second place.

Sweet potatoes held steady in third, showing that some culinary traditions never go out of style. Macaroni and cheese climbed to fourth place, improving from last year’s fifth, while green bean casserole slipped to fifth from fourth.

Interestingly, while nationally stuffing is the people’s champion, preferences shift in various states. In New York and Florida, for instance, macaroni and cheese tops the list as a preferred side dish.