51 Thanksgiving Potluck Recipe Ideas for When You Want to Keep It Simple

Thanksgiving potlucks call for recipes that work well in all sorts of situations, and this list has 51 ideas to choose from. Whether you’re sharing a dish or hosting at home, these options help keep things easy. No need to overcommit with complicated prep! Find something simple and crowd-friendly to bring to the table.

Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Imagine a Thanksgiving spread without the hassle, this Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board delivers just that. Packed with colorful ingredients and a stunning presentation, it’s equal parts functional and decorative. Guests love grazing while chatting, and this board makes it easy for everyone to dig in. No fancy prep is requiredm, it’s totally doable.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Fresh Beet Salad

Bright and refreshing, this Fresh Beet Salad is a colorful addition to any Thanksgiving table. It brings a hint of earthiness that pairs wonderfully with rich, traditional dishes. Guests always appreciate the lighter option in the mix. You’ll love how effortlessly this dish enhances the feast while keeping prep simple.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Beet Salad

Savory Sausage Balls

There’s something irresistible about this Savory Sausage Balls recipe, people come back for seconds every time. These bite-sized treats pack bold flavor into a simple dish that fits perfectly on any potluck spread. Great for both kids and adults, they’re easy to share and even easier to enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Savory Sausage Balls

Rich Blueberry Cheesecake

When dessert rolls around, this Rich Blueberry Cheesecake is the showstopper everyone needs. The creamy texture blends with the subtle sweetness of blueberries for a dessert that feels indulgent but approachable. This dish earns compliments every time, making it a must-have for your Thanksgiving potluck.
Get the Recipe: Rich Blueberry Cheesecake

Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

A classic centerpiece, this Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing is the heart of any Thanksgiving celebration. Juicy turkey paired with tangy stuffing creates an irresistible pairing every guest will mention. This recipe is the perfect balance of traditional flavors and comforting goodness.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Savory French Onion Casserole

Ease meets elegance in this Savory French Onion Casserole that combines rich, caramelized flavors with simple prep. Perfect for a group that loves hearty dishes, it’s warm and welcoming in every bite. This casserole becomes a cozy favorite as soon as it hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Savory French Onion Casserole

Mashed Potato Casserole

Everyone expects mashed potatoes at Thanksgiving, but this Mashed Potato Casserole takes it up a notch. It’s creamy, comforting, and has that stick-to-your-ribs richness everyone craves. This casserole is easy to serve for a crowd while keeping the prep low-effort, making it a potluck favorite every year.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Potato Casserole

Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

These Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins blend the dessert charm of cheesecake with convenient, handheld portions. Whether served as a sweet finale or midday treat, guests can’t seem to get enough of this unique twist. Effortless to share and undeniably flavorful, this dessert is a guaranteed win.
Get the Recipe: Moist Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Warm, hearty, and filling, this Hearty Stuffed Cabbage earns its place among the Thanksgiving favorites. The tender cabbage wraps give classic comfort-food vibes that resonate with everyone around the table. Guests always appreciate the thoughtful touch behind this potluck-friendly dish.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Stuffed Cabbage

Pecan Pie Brownies

This Pecan Pie Brownies recipe combines the holiday richness of pecans with the familiar, fudgy delight of brownies. It’s the kind of dessert that sparks conversations and empty plates. This dessert is easy to share, perfect for impressing without overcomplicating your Thanksgiving menu.
Get the Recipe: Pecan Pie Brownies

Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

For a no-fuss approach, this Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner packs all the flavors of the holiday into a manageable spread. Great for smaller gatherings or when simplicity matters most, this recipe keeps prep straightforward while delivering the comforting tastes everyone expects. It’s a win-win for the host and the guests.
Get the Recipe: Easy Sheet Pan Thanksgiving Dinner

Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

If you’re aiming for both flavor and speed, this Perfect Spatchcock Turkey is your answer. The cooking method promises a moist, evenly cooked bird that’s ready in less time than traditional prep. It’s ideal for potlucks where timing is key, and your guests will love the result.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Spatchcock Turkey

Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Perfect for bringing warmth to a chilly Thanksgiving gathering, this Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup is a comforting and fulfilling potluck dish. Packed with fall flavors, it’s a great way to offer something wholesome alongside heavier classics. Guests will love going back for bowl after bowl.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Beef Soup

Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

If gooey desserts grab everyone’s attention, this Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake will steal the show. With familiar s’mores vibes and a rich fall-inspired twist, it’s the perfect mix of indulgence and nostalgia. Guests always mention how it disappears fast, so make sure you snag a slice. It’s great for both kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Juicy Turkey Burger

Bite into this Juicy Turkey Burger, and you’ll find that keeping it simple never tasted so good. A lighter twist on classic Thanksgiving turkey, these burgers often surprise guests with their big flavor. Perfect for anyone who isn’t into heavy holiday dishes, they’re easy to make and even easier to serve at a potluck.
Get the Recipe: Juicy Turkey Burger

Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Craving a dessert that feels like a treat? This Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake is your answer. The salted caramel topping always earns compliments and adds a creamy elegance that fits Thanksgiving perfectly. It’s one of those desserts everyone remembers for years. A single slice will have guests savoring every bite.
Get the Recipe: Rich Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Nothing says cozy comfort quite like this Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes dish. Packed with all your favorite toppings, they’re a crowd-pleaser that works as a fulfilling side or even a main. Guests love how they feel hearty yet familiar, making them ideal for quick serving at a potluck. Trust me, they’ll go fast!
Get the Recipe: Loaded Twice Baked Potatoes

Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Serve up a touch of elegance with this Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices recipe, it’s like fall wrapped in buttery layers. The first bite brings warm cinnamon and apple goodness, perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings. Guests tend to go back for seconds, so don’t be surprised if this dish turns into a quick favorite.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Cinnamon Apple Strudel Slices

Savory Turkey Pinwheels

On the hunt for a crowd-pleasing appetizer? These Savory Turkey Pinwheels offer a snackable twist on the classic holiday bird. Bite-sized and packed with festive flavors, they’re easy to grab and go, which makes them ideal for mingling at potlucks. Guests love how effortless and fresh they feel. They’re simple, but they still make a solid impression.
Get the Recipe: Savory Turkey Pinwheels

Red Velvet Cupcakes

Sweet and eye-catching, these Red Velvet Cupcakes bring a pop of holiday cheer to your Thanksgiving spread. Their size makes them easy to share, while the rich and moist texture reels in the compliments every time. Guests seem drawn to their festive color, so don’t be surprised if they’re the most photogenic dessert on the table.
Get the Recipe: Red Velvet Cupcakes

Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Got a craving for comfort food? This Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes dish takes it to the next level. Packed with bold flavors and a filling texture, it’s ideal for potlucks where you want something hearty to share. It’s also easy to dig into, making it a guest favorite for those casual serving moments that Thanksgiving gatherings are known for.
Get the Recipe: Rich Mississippi Mud Potatoes

Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Bring a touch of elegance without the fuss with this Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread recipe. The cranberry and brie combination feels upscale but approachable, making it a potluck standout. Guests often rave about its gooey richness paired with bright, tart notes. Shareable and festive, it’s a hit at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Mini Cranberry Brie Pull-Apart Bread

Roasted Turkey Legs

Bring a show-stopping main to the table with this Roasted Turkey Legs recipe. Perfectly portioned for individual servings, they’re juicy, flavorful, and always make guests smile. Bring these to a potluck, and watch them become the centerpiece dish everybody talks about. Simple yet absolutely fulfilling.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey Legs

Oreo Balls

Need a sweet treat without the fuss? These Oreo Balls are a no-fuss dessert that packs big flavor into small bites. A sweet crowd favorite, they’re perfect for Thanksgiving gatherings where something fun and shareable steals the show. Since they’re quick to serve and easy to eat, guests always appreciate having these little treats around post-dinner.
Get the Recipe: Oreo Balls

Savory Garlic Butter Steak Bites

If you’re looking to impress meat lovers, this Savory Garlic Butter Steak Bites recipe has you covered. Tender, juicy, and full of flavor, they’re an unexpected twist on Thanksgiving protein offerings. Guests love how hearty yet bite-sized they are, making them a great addition to any potluck table.
Get the Recipe: Savory Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Add a playful touch to your potluck spread with these Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys. They’re irresistibly cute, combining salty-sweet flavors in bite-sized pieces that kids and adults alike enjoy. Guests often smile at their festive appearance, and they’re so simple to make, anyone can whip them up quickly.
Get the Recipe: Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Festive Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Serve this show-stopping Festive Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball at your Thanksgiving potluck, and watch the compliments pour in. It’s not just adorable, it’s packed with irresistible flavors perfect for the holiday table. Guests won’t believe how simple it is to make. It’s the centerpiece your appetizer spread has been waiting for.
Get the Recipe: Festive Pumpkin Shaped Cheeseball

Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

Few desserts feel as luxurious as this Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse. With velvety texture and a deep chocolate flavor, it’s guaranteed to impress any crowd. Perfect for Thanksgiving, it adds just the right touch of indulgence to your holiday feast. Be prepared, this dish never sticks around for long.
Get the Recipe: Rich and Fluffy Chocolate Mousse

Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Ditch the predictable, and try this Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad for your Thanksgiving spread. With the fresh, sweet bite of cranberries paired with a touch of crunch, it’s a refreshing twist everyone loves. It’s equally perfect for casual plates or extra-fancy potluck setups. Watch it disappear in record time.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Pecan Chicken Salad

Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

If you’re aiming for dessert decadence, this Rich Chocolate Cream Pie is your answer. Its silky layers and chocolate-forward flavor make every forkful an indulgent treat. Bring this to the table, and don’t be surprised if your guests ask for the recipe. It’s always a star at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Rich Chocolate Cream Pie

Ham Steaks

Bring comfort and simplicity to your potluck with these Ham Steaks. Their classic appeal makes them a favorite among holiday dishes, pairing effortlessly with flavorful sides. Whether you’re keeping things casual or going all out, this recipe fits perfectly. It’s simple, fulfilling, and always a crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Ham Steaks

Mississippi Mud Pie

A Thanksgiving feast deserves a dessert that feels extra special, and this Mississippi Mud Pie delivers. Its decadent layers practically guarantee satisfied smiles around the table. Perfect for potlucks, it’s one of those dishes your guests will want to plate up again and again. Who says something simple can’t feel luxurious?
Get the Recipe: Mississippi Mud Pie

Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

Spice up your Thanksgiving offerings with these Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties. They’re flavorful, crowd-friendly, and an excellent savory addition to your holiday lineup. Great on their own or accompanied by classic sides, they’re sure to stand out. Bonus tip: You might want to make extra, they go fast!
Get the Recipe: Hearty Turkey Sausage Patties

Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites

Make holiday entertaining easy with these Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites, and see how quickly they vanish off the tray. The balance between creamy brie and sweet cranberry is practically made for Thanksgiving gatherings. These bite-sized goodies will make you look like you spent hours in the kitchen (no one needs to know the truth).
Get the Recipe: Sweet Cranberry Brie Bites

Layered Seven Layer Salad

Add a pop of color to your potluck table with this Layered Seven Layer Salad. It’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, packed with all the flavors everyone knows and loves. Versatile and easy to serve, it’s sure to become a go-to holiday dish. Watch it earn compliments with every bite.
Get the Recipe: Layered Seven Layer Salad

Matcha Tiramisu

Break from tradition with this elegant Matcha Tiramisu. Its unique flavor profile and eye-catching color bring something unexpected to the Thanksgiving spread. Light and indulgent, it’s perfect for adding variety to your dessert lineup. Take this, and you’ll likely leave guests asking about the recipe all night long.
Get the Recipe: Matcha Tiramisu

Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

There’s a reason these Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies are always a hit at potlucks. Smoky, salty, and absolutely irresistible, they’re the kind of dish that disappears before you know it. Perfect for easy prep, this recipe checks every box for both flavor and convenience. Just be ready for requests for more.
Get the Recipe: Savory Bacon Wrapped Smokies

Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Wrap up your potluck meal with this effortless yet crowd-winning Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake recipe. Bursting with fall flavors, it’s perfect for the Thanksgiving season without requiring hours in the kitchen. Guests will love its comforting sweetness and might even assume you baked all day. It doesn’t get simpler, or tastier, than this.
Get the Recipe: Easy Pumpkin Dump Cake

Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Add a bit of whimsy to your holiday spread with these Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls. They’re bite-sized bursts of holiday flavor, making them perfect for snacking or sharing. Their unique design makes them a standout among more traditional potluck offerings. Bring a batch, and watch them fly off the plate.
Get the Recipe: Savory Cranberry and Turkey Stuffing Balls

Homemade Chocolate Truffles

Upgrade your potluck dessert game with these Homemade Chocolate Truffles that feel both indulgent and effortless. Their velvety texture and rich flavor make them a must-try treat. People love how special they feel without any fuss. These truffles always spark curiosity, and keep guests coming back for more.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Chocolate Truffles

Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Perfect for casual potluck spreads, these Ham and Cheese Pinwheels offer big flavor wrapped in a bite-sized package. Flaky and savory, they strike the perfect balance between simple comfort and crowd-pleasing fun. They’re made for sharing, and guests can’t resist reaching for another. Don’t be surprised if they’re gone in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Cheese Pinwheels

Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Few things say Thanksgiving quite like Mashed Sweet Potatoes, and this dish lets their natural sweetness shine. This recipe’s creamy texture pairs beautifully with hearty fall flavors, making it a welcome addition to any spread. Set these on the table and expect plenty of compliments. A classic that feels a little extra special.
Get the Recipe: Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

Comfort food doesn’t get cozier than this Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole. It combines favorite holiday flavors into one fulfilling dish, keeping things simple yet unforgettable at the potluck table. Guests always come back for seconds, and it’s easy to ensure you’ve made enough to go around. Perfect for when you’re short on prep time but big on flavor.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Thanksgiving Casserole

Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts

If you’re aiming for something unexpected and irresistible this holiday, try these Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts. Sweet, crunchy, and perfectly glazed, this recipe is a treat that brings some added fun to the dessert options. Everyone loves a creative twist, and this will have the potluck buzzing. Don’t be surprised when they disappear in no time.
Get the Recipe: Glazed Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donuts

Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

A crispy, golden snack like these Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes feels almost too good to share. Their satisfying crunch gives way to a soft and fluffy interior that’s irresistible. They’re the perfect addition to any potluck lineup, easy to enjoy while mingling and chatting. You can count on these being a guest favorite.
Get the Recipe: Golden Crispy Potato Croquettes

Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Dessert lovers will swoon over this Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake. The pillowy texture combined with caramel richness delivers the ultimate holiday flavor experience. This cake feels festive and indulgent without being overly complicated or heavy. It’s that type of dessert everyone remembers, and asks for again.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Pumpkin Caramel Cake

Savory Stuffed Mushrooms

When you want an elegant crowd pleaser without the effort, these Savory Stuffed Mushrooms are unbeatable. Packed with loads of flavor, they’ll impress everyone at the potluck, even picky eaters. Their bite-sized charm makes them endlessly fulfilling, and you’ll love hearing all the compliments once people try them.
Get the Recipe: Savory Stuffed Mushrooms

Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Decadence meets nostalgia in these Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies that mix comforting flavors with irresistible texture. They’re the kind of dessert people won’t stop talking about after the potluck. Rich, fudgy, and filled with sweet surprises, this dish turns ordinary brownies into something extra memorable.
Get the Recipe: Fudgy Banana Pudding Brownies

Hearty Red Lentil Soup

A warm bowl of Hearty Red Lentil Soup brings comforting, nourishing vibes to the potluck table. This dish is perfect for chilly Thanksgiving weather, offering a cozy option that both satisfies and feels wholesome. Guests will appreciate its simple yet bold flavors. It’s proof that sometimes the simplest recipes are the most loved.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Red Lentil Soup

Pumpkin Banana Bread

Combining the best flavors of fall, this Pumpkin Banana Bread is a cozy addition to a Thanksgiving potluck. Its moist texture and fragrant spices make it the kind of treat people remember long after dinner is finished. Guests will happily slice into this versatile bread, whether enjoying it with coffee or as dessert.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Banana Bread

Flaky Chicken Pot Pie

Few dishes capture November comfort better than this Flaky Chicken Pot Pie. It’s hearty, homey, and packed with rich fall flavors, all encased in a crust that’s perfectly buttery and crisp. This dish is ideal for feeding a crowd while keeping things simple yet deeply fulfilling. A true classic no guest can resist.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Chicken Pot Pie