47 Thanksgiving Potluck Ideas That Save the Day Every Time

ByMandy Applegate

There’s always that one potluck where everyone shows up with the same dish, and chaos begins. Having 47 Thanksgiving potluck ideas on hand means no one will need to fight over who brings what. It keeps things fun, easy, and organized, like a cheat sheet for saving the holiday.

A plate with a nut roast and potatoes on it.
Vegan Nut Roast. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

A slice of apple pie stuffed cheesecake on a plate with a spoon.
Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of creamy flavors combine with a comforting twist in Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake. This dessert brings together rich textures and a bit of crunch, offering an unexpected combination for a potluck winner. It’s a dessert that’s memorable without being overly complicated. Everyone at the table will reach for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Apple Pie Stuffed Cheesecake

Beet Salad

A close-up of a salad featuring chopped beets, cucumber, feta cheese, walnuts, and fresh herbs on a white plate.
Beet Salad. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Bright and earthy in its flavors, Beet Salad brings a refreshing option to your Thanksgiving spread. The mix of textures makes it unique, standing out easily among heavier dishes. Whether you need something light or eye-catching, this salad fits perfectly. Sharing this side is guaranteed to spark compliments from the crowd.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Butternut Squash Risotto

A bowl of risotto topped with roasted pumpkin pieces, grated cheese, and fresh parsley, with a checkered napkin and herbs nearby.
Butternut Squash Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy consistency meets hearty flavors in Butternut Squash Risotto, bringing warmth to every plate. This dish stands out for its comfort food vibes without taking the spotlight away from the turkey. It’s a side that pairs well with nearly anything on a Thanksgiving table. Guests appreciate its ability to feel special without overpowering.
Get the Recipe: Butternut Squash Risotto

Apple Dump Cake

Close-up of an apple crumble dessert with a golden crust, topped with two scoops of vanilla ice cream, and a spoon placed inside the dish.
Apple Dump Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Warm, sweet, and incredibly simple, Apple Dump Cake is the kind of dessert that disappears quickly. Its texture balances between soft and crumbly, perfect for those craving something cozy. Bringing this to a potluck is an easy way to impress without added stress. It’s a crowd-pleaser for all ages.
Get the Recipe: Apple Dump Cake

Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks with pomegranate and pistachios on a plate.
Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smoky and tender, Cauliflower Steaks prove that plant-based dishes can belong at the Thanksgiving table. Their hearty texture makes them a fun alternative for anyone skipping the turkey. This dish brings balance when paired alongside richer sides. Even meat-eaters love adding this to their plates.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Chocolate Chip Muffins

Close-up of three chocolate muffins in brown paper wrappers, topped with chocolate chips, with part of a bowl of chocolate chips visible in the background.
Chocolate Chip Muffins. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Chocolate Chip Muffins always find their way into every gathering. Perfect for pre-dinner snacking or after-meal sweetness, these muffins fit right in at a Thanksgiving potluck. The hint of sweetness makes them versatile and appreciated by kids and adults alike. They disappear quickly, so consider bringing extras.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Chip Muffins

Celery Salad

A bowl filled with chopped celery, red onion, apples, almonds, and fresh herbs.
Celery Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Simple yet refreshing, Celery Salad breaks up the richness of Thanksgiving entrees with its crunch. This is a subtle dish that adds balance to any heavy meal spread. Guests enjoying heavy foods will appreciate having this light addition on their plates. It’s an easy, fresh option that doesn’t get overlooked.
Get the Recipe: Celery Salad

Coffee Cake

Close-up of eight square pieces of crumb cake with a textured, crumbly topping.
Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Coffee Cake delivers classic comfort with every bite. It’s an easy dessert or snack to slip into a potluck lineup, offering warmth without overwhelming. Pairing perfectly with hot drinks, it feels like a cozy choice for any Thanksgiving setting. Everyone seems to want a slice of this crowd-favorite.
Get the Recipe: Coffee Cake

7 Layer Salad

A salad bowl filled with vegetables and peas.
7 Layer Salad. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Colorful and layered with a variety of textures, 7 Layer Salad steals attention on any Thanksgiving table. It’s a conversation piece as much as it is a lovely dish. The layers keep flavors fresh, making it a thoughtful addition to a potluck spread. With so many crowd-pleasing parts, everyone wants a taste.
Get the Recipe: 7 Layer Salad

Pumpkin Coffee Cake

A stack of pumpkin coffee cake squares with crumb topping and white glaze, arranged on a wooden board.
Pumpkin Coffee Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Warm spices and crumbly textures make Pumpkin Coffee Cake a potluck favorite for Thanksgiving. It’s a dessert or mid-meal option that feels right at home next to classic holiday dishes. The pumpkin twist makes it seasonal without feeling overdone. Guests often end up asking for the recipe after a slice.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Coffee Cake

Garlic Knots

Close-up view of freshly baked garlic knots with parsley and seasoning, resting on a parchment-lined baking tray.
Garlic Knots. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Soft, flavorful bites like Garlic Knots work well as a shareable snack for any Thanksgiving potluck. Warm, doughy, and perfectly seasoned, they fill gaps between main dishes or work as appetizers. They’re easy to grab and go, fitting well in a potluck lineup. No matter how big the crowd, these will disappear quickly.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

Chocolate Truffles

Chocolate truffles on a plate with a chocolatey spoon resting on the plate.
Chocolate Truffles. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chocolate Truffles add a little indulgence to Thanksgiving potlucks. Their size makes them an easy choice for grazing or after a full meal. They bring an upscale feel to a casual gathering without being over-complicated. Perfect to share, they’ll disappear fast from the dessert table.
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Truffles

Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Close-up of cinnamon swirl bread slices, showcasing a spiral pattern in the texture.
Cinnamon Swirl Bread. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet layers of filling make Cinnamon Swirl Bread a comforting addition to any Thanksgiving potluck. It’s flexible enough to pair with meals or enjoy on its own. The swirling pattern adds a nice visual touch along with classic flavors. Others at the table will certainly ask for just one more slice.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Swirl Bread

Cherry Cheesecake

A slice of cherry cheesecake on a plate.
Cherry Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich and creamy with just the right balance of sweet and tart, Cherry Cheesecake makes a perfect holiday dessert. Its smooth texture is matched by a bold topping, making it stand out among other sweets. Always a crowd-pleaser, it finds a place quickly on the dessert table. Sharing it is just as enjoyable as enjoying it yourself.
Get the Recipe: Cherry Cheesecake

Funeral Potatoes

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Funeral Potatoes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Funeral Potatoes are a go-to Thanksgiving comfort food. The creamy center makes every bite stick with you just enough to keep you coming back. It’s one of those dishes you always catch someone sneaking seconds of. For potlucks, this reliable classic always comes in handy.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

A slice of apple cinnamon roll on a plate.
Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Two desserts in one, Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie blends sweet layers into something fun and eye-catching. The flaky and soft textures keep it from feeling heavy, even at a big meal. Its creative combination makes it a talking point at any potluck table. Bring it along, and you won’t see it stay untouched for long.
Get the Recipe: Cinnamon Roll Apple Pie

Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy, golden-brown macaroni and cheese dish with a crunchy breadcrumb topping reminiscent of comforting funeral potatoes. A spoon is partially submerged in the cheese sauce.
Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Mac and Cheese is the ultimate side dish for any Thanksgiving potluck. Guests of all ages gravitate toward its hearty, familiar appeal. Even though it’s simple, it feels like a must-have next to the turkey. Bringing it ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Easy Banana Pudding

Banana pudding in a bowl with whipped cream and bananas.
Easy Banana Pudding. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Smoothly layered and light, Easy Banana Pudding provides a break from the heavier pies on Thanksgiving. Its simplicity makes it a perfect addition to an already busy potluck spread. Even with all the other desserts, this dish tends to win over anyone looking for a creamy treat. It’s a classic that friends and family recognize right away.
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

Deviled Eggs

Deviled eggs with cranberry sauce on a platter.
Deviled Eggs. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A simple yet crowd-pleasing option that always disappears from the table fast. Deviled Eggs bring a creamy, tangy kick that works as a fantastic starter. They’re bite-sized, making them perfect for grazing during a Thanksgiving potluck. Easy to make ahead of time, they keep the party flowing without fuss.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

Chocolate Covered Apple Slices

Chocolate-covered apple slices on sticks are decorated with various toppings, including caramel drizzle, sprinkles, and crushed cookies, with more sprinkles in the background.
Chocolate Covered Apple Slices. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Chocolate Covered Apple Slices mix crisp texture with a sweet coating. It’s a great handheld dessert option for mingling at a potluck table. They offer a creative twist on regular desserts without requiring a plate or fork. Guests appreciate how easy it is to go back for “just one more.”
Get the Recipe: Chocolate Covered Apple Slices

Eggplant Casserole

A slice of cheesy eggplant lasagna with tomato sauce is being lifted from a pan, showing stretchy melted cheese. A bowl is blurred in the background.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Savory and hearty without being too heavy, Eggplant Casserole brings a different kind of comfort to the Thanksgiving table. Its unique ingredients make it stand out from the usual lineup of dishes. Adding this to the potluck gives everyone something unexpected to try. Whether as a side or main, it holds its place well.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Peanut Butter Cake

Close-up of frosted square cake pieces with a light brown crust on parchment paper.
Peanut Butter Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Peanut Butter Cake offers a simple, rich dessert for Thanksgiving potlucks. Its soft texture pairs perfectly with coffee or tea, making it easy to love. Whether sliced large or small, it fits seamlessly into the spread. Making this dessert ensures there’s something everyone will talk about long after the meal is done.
Get the Recipe: Peanut Butter Cake

Egg Casserole

A casserole dish containing egg casserole.
Egg Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Layers of rich, fluffy goodness make Egg Casserole a true comfort food worth sharing. Packed with hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that satisfies while feeding a crowd. Having it at a Thanksgiving potluck ensures everyone gets something filling and warm. Plus, it holds up well during longer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Egg Casserole

Fried Banana

A close up of a plate of fried bananas with sauce.
Fried Banana. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A warm, sweet treat like Fried Banana brings a lovely twist to a Thanksgiving dessert table. Tender on the inside and lightly crisp outside, it’s a quick favorite for those who appreciate simple contrasts in texture. Perfect for those looking for something beyond pie yet still indulgent. You’ll love how it rounds out the menu.
Get the Recipe: Fried Banana

Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of cheesecake with a caramelized sugar topping, resting on parchment paper with a crumbly base visible.
Creme Brûlée Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Blend creamy cheesecake and the crackly top with Creme Brûlée. Its rich and smooth layers bring a special touch to the table. It’s perfect when you want to contribute something more impressive without too much hassle. Guests are bound to remember this one.
Get the Recipe: Creme Brûlée Cheesecake

Dauphinoise Potatoes

An oven dish with baked dauphinoise potatoes in it.
Dauphinoise Potatoes. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Silky layers and a rich base make Dauphinoise Potatoes the ultimate side dish for Thanksgiving potlucks. This is a crowd-pleaser that pairs well with any main dish. Its creamy appeal makes it an easy favorite, even for picky eaters. Prepare this when you want a dependable and filling option.
Get the Recipe: Dauphinoise Potatoes

Banana Pudding Brownies

Several squares of chocolate brownies with a yellow and brown marbled pattern are stacked and arranged on parchment paper.
Banana Pudding Brownies. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Layers of soft cake and pudding meet chocolate richness in Banana Pudding Brownies, creating a unique dessert. It’s an easy way to impress at a potluck, especially with people who like to try twists on classics. These squares are moist and flavorful without being overcomplicated. A fuss-free way to add variety to the spread.
Get the Recipe: Banana Pudding Brownies

Green Bean Casserole

A casserole dish filled with green bean casserole with a spoon in it.
Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A truly classic addition, Green Bean Casserole fits right into a Thanksgiving potluck. Its creamy texture and lovely crunch make it an option everyone recognizes. It’s one of those dishes that are guaranteed to pull people together around the table. Whether as a main or side, it’s made for big gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Hashbrown Casserole

Hashbrown casserole being served.
Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Hashbrown Casserole is a family-style dish that’s perfect for sharing. Its rich texture and familiar flavors make it a comforting choice for Thanksgiving. Guests will appreciate its simplicity yet satisfying nature. It does a great job balancing the other complex dishes on the table.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Pumpkin Roll

A slice of pumpkin roll being sprinkled with powdered sugar.
Pumpkin Roll. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A mix of soft cake and cream filling, Pumpkin Roll combines the elements of a classic dessert in a portable format. It’s perfect when you want something with seasonal flavors that’s easy to slice and share. Its rolled appearance makes it instantly appealing to potluck participants. Convenient, delicious, and always appreciated.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll

Marry Me Butter Beans

A cast iron skillet with creamy pasta mixed with spinach and sun-dried tomatoes, topped with cheese, with a wooden spoon resting inside.
Marry Me Butter Beans. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy and flavorful, Marry Me Butter Beans bring something comforting to the Thanksgiving lineup. This dish is an excellent choice when you want something hearty yet slightly different from the usual options. Its inviting texture ensures a warm addition to the table. A great way to surprise guests with something memorable.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Butter Beans

Pecan Pie Bars

Two pecan-topped dessert bars are stacked on parchment paper, showing a dense, crumbly base and a caramelized nut topping.
Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Bite-sized and easy to share, Pecan Pie Bars offer the flavors of a classic pie in portable form. Their crumbly texture and nutty filling make them a high-demand dessert. It’s a smart choice for potlucks because people can quickly grab and enjoy them. They pack all the richness of pie without needing a fork.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Bars

Pinwheel Sandwiches

Close-up of several tortilla pinwheel wraps filled with various ingredients including spinach, cream cheese, tomatoes, and other vegetables, arranged neatly on a white surface.
Pinwheel Sandwiches. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sized rolls like Pinwheel Sandwiches bring a light yet flavorful option to the Thanksgiving potluck. With layers of ingredients swirled into each bite, they’re as fun as they are handy. They fill a nice gap between the heavier meals on the table. Portable and easy to eat, they’re always a popular choice.
Get the Recipe: Pinwheel Sandwiches

Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Slice of cheesecake topped with caramel, pretzel, pecan, and sea salt on a plate, with a spoon beside it.
Salted Caramel Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Rich layers of sweetness and a touch of salty in Salted Caramel Cheesecake make it a stunning choice for dessert. It’s indulgent enough to leave an impression while being easy to prepare ahead. Perfect for potlucks, it balances sweetness with just enough saltiness to keep everyone smiling. Individual portions work great, too.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Potato Skins

Potato skins with sour cream and sliced scallions.
Potato Skins. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Bite-sizes like Potato Skins make a fun and satisfying addition for a Thanksgiving potluck. With crispy outsides and warm fillings, they’re the perfect option for people looking for something small yet fulfilling. They fit well among appetizers but could also double as a hearty side dish. You’ll appreciate how quickly they disappear.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Homemade Bread Pudding

A close-up of decadent bread pudding, topped with creamy vanilla sauce, is being lifted from a serving plate.
Homemade Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm, comforting, and easy to share, Homemade Bread Pudding is great when you need a dessert packed with flavor. This timeless dessert keeps guests happy as it delivers both nostalgia and richness. It’s simple to portion and works well for large groups. If pies dominate the table, this unique addition stands out.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding

Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

A cast iron skillet filled with vegetable shepherd's pie, topped with mashed potatoes and garnished with rosemary sprigs and chopped parsley. Two spoons are placed inside.
Vegetarian Shepherds Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

For a hearty meatless option, Vegetarian Shepherds Pie steps in as the perfect Thanksgiving dish. It’s packed with layers of filling that bring warmth and sturdiness to any potluck. Guests looking for plant-based comfort food will appreciate its presence. This dish ensures everyone at the table feels included.
Get the Recipe: Vegetarian Shepherds Pie

Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower head cut in half, garnished with chopped parsley, on a white plate.
Roasted Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A bold centerpiece like Roasted Whole Cauliflower adds variety to a Thanksgiving potluck. It’s hearty enough to act as either a side or a vegan-friendly main course. This addition works incredibly well to balance out heavier meat-based dishes. Guests looking for lighter, vegetable-focused options will love this dish.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Pumpkin Pie

A slice of pumpkin pie on a plate with cranberries.
Pumpkin Pie. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

As a Thanksgiving staple, Pumpkin Pie never fails to anchor the dessert table. It’s familiar, comforting, and always anticipated by guests of every age. This classic dessert works well with nearly anything else being served at a potluck. You simply can’t go wrong bringing this traditional option.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie

Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms with crispy shallots and parsley.
Stuffed Mushrooms. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Adding a bite-sized, flavorful option, Stuffed Mushrooms deliver something small but impactful for a Thanksgiving table. These make a great appetizer that’s not too heavy, fitting well in the flow of a potluck. They’re easy to grab and keep the conversation going. A simple addition that doesn’t get overlooked.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Tiramisu Cheesecake

A close-up of a slice of layered tiramisu cake with cream, coffee-soaked sponge, and dusted cocoa powder on top, served on a white plate.
Tiramisu Cheesecake. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Combining indulgent layers, Tiramisu Cheesecake blends the best of two desserts into one rich offering. This dish serves as the perfect mixing of creamy sweetness with just enough boldness. Its presentation alone typically draws attention in a potluck setting. Reliable, crowd-pleasing, and anything but boring.
Get the Recipe: Tiramisu Cheesecake

Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

A lasagna being dished up.
Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A layered option like Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna offers comfort food that vegetarians and meat lovers can both enjoy. It’s tender, cheesy, and versatile enough to stand on its own among other potluck mains. This dish holds up beautifully over time without losing flavor. Whether as a side or star, it shines in gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Spinach and Ricotta Lasagna

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

A bowl of golden-brown, crispy fried arancini served in a white dish on a plain background.
Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites bring a playful kick to any Thanksgiving table. With a crispy coating and flavorful filling, they bring variety to the appetizer spread. Their size and boldness make them ideal for mixing things up. Potlucks are always better with dishes like these for a unique twist.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Texas Roadhouse Rattlesnake Bites

Sweet Potato Gnocchi

A plate of golden-brown gnocchi garnished with rosemary, served with a black fork.
Sweet Potato Gnocchi. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Soft, comforting, and different enough to make an impression, Sweet Potato Gnocchi fits nicely into Thanksgiving celebrations. Its hearty texture makes it feel like a step up from basic side dishes. Guests will appreciate the balance of flavors in every bite. Bringing it to a potluck guarantees a standout addition.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Creamed Spinach

A bowl of creamy spinach topped with grated cheese, being stirred with a spoon.
Creamed Spinach. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Warm, creamy options like Creamed Spinach provide balance on Thanksgiving potluck tables filled with heavier dishes. This side dish blends well with nearly everything while still standing out as its own star. It’s simple yet impactful when placed beside roasts and casseroles. Guests usually return for seconds on this classic.
Get the Recipe: Creamed Spinach

Sweet Potato Wedges

Roasted sweet potato wedges sprinkled with herbs on parchment paper.
Sweet Potato Wedges. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Chunky, shareable, and easy to enjoy, Sweet Potato Wedges bring a simple yet crowd-pleasing option to potlucks. They complement nearly any dish without overpowering the flavors already on the table. Since they’re portable and enjoyable, they don’t stay available for long. Potlucks are better with options like these on hand.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Wedges

Vegan Nut Roast

A plate with a nut roast and potatoes on it.
Vegan Nut Roast. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Packed with texture and flavor, Vegan Nut Roast brings a thoughtful option for plant-based guests at Thanksgiving. It’s hearty enough to work as a main course but pairs just as well with smaller sides. The nutty base and balanced seasonings make it approachable for everyone. Great for ensuring no one is left out of the feast.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Nut Roast

A vegetarian for over 45 years, Mandy has taught herself to be creative in the kitchen, using traditional appliances and air fryers. Traveling extensively, Mandy loves learning and adapting vegetarian recipes from across the world.

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