As the holiday season approaches, many people are starting to plan their Thanksgiving menus. There are dozens of classic dishes that are commonly associated with this holiday, but which ones are the most popular? This question is not easy to answer definitively because everyone’s tastes and traditions are different. However, we’ve compiled a list of the 12 Thanksgiving dishes that are most frequently searched for and talked about online, based on data from a variety of sources.
Of course, this list is far from comprehensive, and there are many other dishes that people may enjoy serving or eating on Thanksgiving. But whether you’re looking for inspiration, curious about what other people are cooking up, or simply interested in learning more about this beloved American holiday, we hope you’ll find this article to be a helpful guide. So without further ado, here are the 12 most popular Thanksgiving dishes, in no particular order.
Turkey: The Thanksgiving Classic
Turkey is hands down the most popular dish served on Thanksgiving. It’s the centerpiece of the entire meal and is usually the first item to be placed on the dinner table. Traditionally, the bird is roasted, and the skin is kept crispy to add texture and flavor to the dish. Turkey is usually seasoned with herbs like thyme, rosemary, and sage, which gives it an irresistible aroma. It’s then served with delicious gravy made from the drippings of the turkey.
While turkey remains a constant in most households on Thanksgiving, it’s not uncommon for families to add their own twist to the classic dish. Some people prefer smoked turkey or a deep-fried version, while others choose to stuff their bird with herbs, vegetables, or fruits. Whatever the preparation method may be, it’s safe to say that turkey will continue to be the star of the Thanksgiving dinner table for years to come.
Mashed Potatoes: A Comfort Food Staple
Mashed potatoes are one of the all-time favorite dishes that are served on Thanksgiving. Along with turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pies, mashed potatoes have become a staple on the holiday dinner table. This dish is a simple, yet classic recipe that can be enjoyed by people of all ages.
Mashed potatoes are made by cooking and mashing boiled potatoes with butter, milk, and some seasonings. The result is a creamy and smooth texture that is both indulgent and comforting. Some families add their unique touch, such as garlic, cheese or herbs, to give it a unique flavor. Whether they are served with gravy or eaten on their own, mashed potatoes are a must-have dish on Thanksgiving and an excellent choice for any occasion. It’s no surprise that it is named as one of the top 12 popular Thanksgiving dishes.
Stuffing vs. Dressing: What’s the Difference?
Stuffing and dressing are two classic Thanksgiving side dishes that often get confused with each other. The primary difference between the two is their cooking method. Stuffing is cooked inside the turkey cavity, while dressing is cooked outside of the bird in a separate dish. This difference in cooking method can result in variations in flavor and texture.
Stuffing is typically moist and flavorful because it absorbs the juices from the turkey as it cooks in the bird. Dressing, on the other hand, relies solely on added broth or butter for moisture and flavor. People tend to have a preference between the two, with some swearing by their family’s stuffing recipe and others claiming dressing as their favorite. Regardless of preference, both dishes offer delicious and comforting flavors that perfectly complement a Thanksgiving feast.
Cranberry Sauce: From Canned to Homemade
Cranberry sauce is such an essential component of the Thanksgiving dinner that the holiday spread would be incomplete without it. Traditionally, many people opt for the canned version of cranberry sauce that is readily available in stores. However, in recent years, homemade cranberry sauce has become increasingly popular. It’s not only healthier but also surprisingly easy to make.
To make homemade cranberry sauce, all you need is fresh cranberries, sugar, and water. Simply boil the ingredients together until the berries burst and the sugar dissolves. The result is a tangy, sweet, and refreshing sauce that pairs perfectly with turkey. Moreover, you can get creative with the recipe by adding spices like cinnamon, cloves, or nutmeg, or even citrus zest to give it an extra zing. Serve the sauce chilled or at room temperature alongside the main course on Thanksgiving day.
The Importance of Gravy
Gravy is undoubtedly one of the most crucial components of a traditional Thanksgiving meal. It is essential because it brings together all the different elements of the meal and helps to enhance their flavors. Rich and smooth, gravy has a silky texture that excellently complements the food. It is typically made from the meat drippings or other flavorings enhanced with some thickening agents. Gravy is not only tasty but also comforting, making it the perfect accompaniment to the Thanksgiving meal.
Aside from its fantastic taste, gravy is also significant because it represents the spirit of Thanksgiving. It is often prepared using age-old family recipes, passed down through generations, making it a way of keeping the family traditions alive. Additionally, Thanksgiving is about giving thanks and gravy is a star ingredient that keeps the meal celebratory, and connections between family and friends strong. Without gravy, Thanksgiving could be incomplete, as it is considered the glue that binds the feast together.
Sweet Potato Casserole: The Sweet and Savory Favorite
Sweet potato casserole is a delicious and iconic dish that is enjoyed by millions of people across the United States during Thanksgiving. This classic recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with a savory blend of spices and toppings that make it a perfect addition to any holiday feast. Not only is it a delicious dish, but it is also one of the most visually appealing of all Thanksgiving dishes, with its golden-brown topping and bright orange center.
The traditional recipe typically calls for baked sweet potatoes that are mashed and combined with butter, milk, brown sugar, and spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg. This mixture is then topped with a crumble made from flour, brown sugar, and chopped pecans before being baked until golden and bubbly. Sweet potato casserole is a great side dish that pairs well with almost any meat, making it a favorite amongst generations of Thanksgiving diners.
Pumpkin Pie: A Perfect Finale to the Feast
Pumpkin pie has become synonymous with Thanksgiving dinner, and it is considered the ultimate dessert to end the feast. The rich, creamy filling made with spiced pumpkin puree, and sweetened with condensed milk, is all baked in a flaky pastry crust that adds a decent crunch to it. When the pie is taken out of the oven, it is given ample time to cool down and then smothered with whipped cream to create a succulent and unforgettable dish.
Although some may have their preferences and variations of pumpkin pie, most people wouldn’t think twice about having the classic version on their Thanksgiving table. The pumpkin pie sets the tone of satisfaction and a perfect end to the meal that everyone would remember. The fragrant smell of nutmeg, ginger, and cinnamon wafting from a freshly baked pumpkin pie is the epitome of a Thanksgiving celebration and a tradition loved by generations of families.
Final Words
Thanksgiving is a celebration that brings people together to share a meal and express gratitude for everything they have. Traditional foods that symbolize the holiday’s history have evolved and become staples in most households today. Some of the most popular dishes that Americans engage in each year include roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole, and pumpkin pie.
As we share this day with our loved ones, it’s important to appreciate the significance and history behind these dishes. With so much choice available, it’s easy to create a custom menu of your own while still reflecting the traditions upheld by generations before us. Whether you prefer traditional favorites or new recipes, we hope that everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving!