Thanksgiving isn’t just about family, football, and that awkward small talk with the relatives you rarely see, it’s about the food. Whether you prefer sweet, savory, or both (because why choose?), there’s something on the table for everyone. Here are ten Thanksgiving dishes that deserve the spotlight this year:
1. Mac and Cheese
Creamy, cheesy, and straight-up comforting. The baked top gives that perfect crunch before you hit the gooey middle. It’s the kind of dish that brings the soul to Thanksgiving in every home.
2. Pernil (Roast Pork)
A favorite that always shows up at the best holiday spreads. Juicy, flavorful, and slow-roasted until the skin is crispy, pernil brings the flavor that turkey sometimes lacks.
3. Turkey
The classic centerpiece. Whether it’s roasted, fried, or smoked, turkey sets the tone for the whole meal. Just don’t forget the gravy because no one wants dry turkey.
4. Stuffing (or Dressing)
Every family makes it a little different, but that’s the beauty of it. Whether it’s full of sausage, veggies, or cornbread, stuffing is where the real flavor lives.
5. Collard Greens
Seasoned just right with smoked turkey or ham hock, these greens are tender, flavorful, and the perfect balance to all the heavy sides.
6. Sweet Potato Pie
The smooth, spiced cousin of pumpkin pie that wins every time. It’s sweet, nostalgic, and tastes like love and home.
7. Cranberry Sauce
Controversial? Maybe. Necessary? Definitely. Whether you love the homemade kinds or the one that slides out of the can with the ridges still showing, it adds that perfect tangy balance to all the rich food.
8. Arroz con Gandules
A staple for any Thanksgiving. The mix of rice, pigeon peas, and sofrito gives every bite flavor and warmth. It’s pure comfort food magic.
9. Candied Yams
Soft, sweet, and covered in brown sugar or marshmallows, Yams are dessert disguised as a side dish. No one’s complaining.
10. Pumpkin Pie
It’s not Thanksgiving without at least one slice. The spices, the whipped cream, and the nostalgia is the perfect ending to a perfect meal.
From pernil to pie, Thanksgiving is all about flavor, family, and a little bit of chaos in the kitchen. No matter what’s on your plate, the best part is sharing it (and maybe fighting over the last roll).
