29 Thanksgiving Potluck Ideas That Have Everyone Asking for the Recipe

Crowded holiday tables always get more fun when the crowd shows up with something new to share. With 29 Thanksgiving potluck recipes in one lineup, there’s no shortage of conversation starters, second helpings, or relatives asking if you’ll “send that over later.” It’s the kind of collection that makes everyone secretly glad they came hungry.

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

French Onion Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with a golden-brown breadcrumb crust and garnished with fresh herbs.
French Onion Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Classic comfort dishes always stand out, especially when someone brings French Onion Casserole to share. The rich, hearty flavor pulls everyone back for seconds. You get all the warmth and cheesiness you expect in every bite. Guests keep asking what goes into it. This one is sure to leave your dish empty by the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

Maryland Crab Cake

Close-up of golden-brown Maryland crab cakes garnished with herbs on a white plate, complemented by a fresh parsley garnish.
Maryland Crab Cake. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Bring a bit of coastal flavor to the table with a tray of Maryland Crab Cake. Each bite gives a nice balance of crisp and tender texture. These are always a big hit with seafood fans. They make a nice change from the usual spread. Don’t be surprised if everyone asks you to share how you made them.
Get the Recipe: Maryland Crab Cake

Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

A plate of blueberry muffins with crumb topping, arranged in a pile.
Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

When you want something a little sweet to round out the table, try passing around Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins. The creamy center and fruity burst make each muffin feel special. People enjoy them with coffee or as a quick bite during the party. They’re often the first to disappear from the dessert tray. Friends will definitely ask for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

Turkey Soup

A bowl of chicken soup with rice, carrots, celery, herbs, and pepper sprinkled on top.
Turkey Soup. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Leftover turkey gets a fresh start in a warm pot of Turkey Soup. This dish is always welcome when everybody wants something light but filling. Each spoonful brings comfort and a burst of home-style flavor. Bowls get emptied fast with this soup. It’s a simple way to stretch your holiday main course.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Soup

Cabbage Casserole

A close-up of a baked casserole dish filled with creamy cabbage gratin, topped with a golden breadcrumb crust, with a serving spoon partially visible.
Cabbage Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Potlucks need crowd-pleasers, and Cabbage Casserole hits that mark every time. It brings a hearty flavor and texture that mixes well with any menu. This one works for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. People enjoy the change from the usual potato side. Expect to get plenty of compliments after serving it.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

A close-up of a sourdough cinnamon roll topped with creamy icing and a sprinkle of cinnamon on a plate.
Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A tray of Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls brings a smile to every table. These rolls pair perfectly with coffee or hot drinks during long meals. The soft swirl and light spice tempt folks to come back for more. They fit well with both brunch and dessert spreads. Most will want to grab more than one.
Get the Recipe: Sourdough Cinnamon Rolls

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.

Kids and adults both light up when someone brings Mac and Cheese to the table. Its creamy texture and familiar flavor make it a true pantry standby. Even picky eaters find something to enjoy here. This dish always seems to be finished off first. There’s no need for fancy extras—just bowl and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Pumpkin Bars

A group of pumpkin bars with icing on top.
Pumpkin Bars. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Sharing becomes extra easy when Pumpkin Bars are sliced and passed around. These bars hit that sweet spot between cake and cookie. Their mild flavor suits all ages at potlucks. You often see the tray go empty fast. The crowd will remember who brought them and ask for the details.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars

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.

For those looking for something a little different, bring a pan of Eggplant Casserole. Each slice offers a soft, layered experience that surprises guests. It’s a smart option for sharing with vegetarians, too. The mix blends into a comforting main or side. You’ll likely be hearing requests for the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Apple Cobbler

A baked apple cobbler with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on top, partially served in a dish.
Apple Cobbler. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone finds room for another scoop when Apple Cobbler is on the dessert table. The crumbly topping and sweet filling feel just right after a big meal. It’s easy to dish up for a group. Family and friends appreciate this classic touch. Everybody always looks for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Close-up of sliced glazed turkey breast with visible seasoning.
Maple Glazed Turkey Breast. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Carve something special for the potluck with Maple Glazed Turkey Breast as your main. The glaze brings a sweet edge that makes it stand out from the usual turkey. Slices work well for small plates or sandwiches. It fits nicely among all the sides. Each bite gets high marks for flavor and balance.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

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.

Cheesy, creamy sides always have a crowd, so Funeral Potatoes never last long. Every scoop brings back memories for many guests. The texture is soft and easy to eat, which helps during big group meals. It’s a regular hit year after year. Plates come back wiped clean every time.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Pumpkin Pie

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

Celebrate with a slice of Pumpkin Pie to bring smiles to the table. Each piece comes out neat, creamy, and perfect with a cup of coffee after dinner. Everyone expects at least one slice of this classic dessert. You’ll get recipe requests from newcomers. Pie never feels out of place at potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pie

Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Close-up of cooked beef chunks garnished with chopped herbs on a plate with a spoon nearby.
Garlic Butter Steak Bites. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

If you want a dish that’s gone before you know it, put out a platter of Garlic Butter Steak Bites. These are easy to grab and perfect for mingling crowds. The buttery flavor draws folks back for more. It works as a hearty appetizer or a side with other favorites. Friends won’t stop talking about them.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Sheet Pan Pancakes

Three rectangular slices of baked fruit-studded cake, topped with powdered sugar, are stacked on a white plate.
Sheet Pan Pancakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Try bringing something different for brunch with Sheet Pan Pancakes cut into easy slices. It lets everyone serve themselves without a fuss. These pancakes come out soft and always look good on the potluck table. Toppings can be added to each square to suit different tastes. You’ll want to save the idea for every event.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pancakes

Thanksgiving Casserole

A golden brown Thanksgiving casserole of baked stuffing garnished with fresh herbs.
Thanksgiving Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Grab a serving of Thanksgiving Casserole and you get a little bit of everything in one. It mixes flavors and textures in a way that suits everyone. Great for sharing when you can’t decide what to bring. Guests dig in for seconds with no hesitation. The dish often becomes a new holiday favorite.
Get the Recipe: Thanksgiving Casserole

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, warm Garlic Knots are always gone fast from the bread basket. These bite-sized rolls are easy to pass around and work with any meal. The buttery topping is what people come back for. Kids enjoy them just as much as grown-ups. Your basket will be empty before the main course hits the table.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

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.

Everyone cherishes a dessert that stands out, like Salted Caramel Cheesecake after dinner. A rich and creamy texture with a dash of salt keeps guests reaching for more. It serves well in small slices for larger crowds. Friends always ask for the recipe at the end. Plates are licked clean every time.
Get the Recipe: Salted Caramel Cheesecake

Sausage Balls

Plate of crispy fried dumplings with chopped herbs, served with a bowl of brown dipping sauce.
Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Appetizer tables are never complete without Sausage Balls stacked high. These bite-sized snacks are easy to serve and pack just enough flavor. They make a quick hit with both kids and adults. They reach for them before the meal even starts. Plan on making a double batch.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Tanghulu

Skewers of grapes and strawberries coated in a shiny glaze are arranged on a light surface with loose fruit pieces nearby.
Tanghulu. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Add some fun and crunch with a platter of Tanghulu for your next gathering. These glossy, fruity bites catch everyone’s eye. People love their crisp snap and sweet finish. It’s a snack that stands out from everything else. You’ll be sharing the recipe all night.
Get the Recipe: Tanghulu

Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

A turkey charcuterie board features a playful face design with sliced meats, cheeses, pretzels, grapes, olives, breadsticks, and two candy eyes on an apple.
Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone loves to nibble, so put out a Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board for easy grazing. The mix of colors and flavors draws a crowd. It’s an easy way to keep guests mingling. People find something for every appetite. The spread looks great and disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

Potato Skins

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

Bring out bold snacks like Potato Skins and watch them vanish. They’re packed with flavor and always get picked first at gatherings. Each skin holds its shape and is easy to eat by hand. These snacks work for both appetizers and sides. Guests are quick to ask for more.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Turkey Sliders

Close-up of a seasoned bagel sandwich with melted cheese and turkey slider filling, topped with seeds.
Turkey Sliders. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Sharing is simple when you pass a tray of Turkey Sliders around the room. These mini sandwiches are easy to pick up and eat in just a few bites. They go over well with both kids and adults. You’ll see smiles all around after the first round. Expect requests for a repeat performance.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Pumpkin Roll

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

With its swirl and soft bite, Pumpkin Roll always brings something special to dessert time. It slices perfectly for sharing on bigger tables. The creamy center keeps it moist and balanced. Guests are quick to ask how you made it. Pumpkin Roll usually disappears before anything else.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Roll

Stuffed Mushrooms

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

Small bites like Stuffed Mushrooms always leave an impression. These make a smart starter for the crowd. The filling has enough flavor to get people asking for the recipe. It’s a good option for both vegetarians and meat eaters. Stuffed Mushrooms won’t last long on the platter.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Mushrooms

Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Close-up of several Bacon Jalapeno Popper Cheese Balls wrapped in bacon, stuffed with cheese, and seasoned with herbs and spices, placed on crumpled parchment paper.
Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Give everybody a reason to gather by serving Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls with crackers. The hint of jalapeño adds just enough kick to each bite. Easy to grab, these balls work for busy holiday tables. Kids and adults come back for more. It makes a dip that everyone talks about later.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Twice Baked Potatoes

Twice-baked potatoes topped with melted cheese and chopped green onions on a baking sheet.
Twice Baked Potatoes. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

Looking for sides that impress? Try setting out Twice Baked Potatoes for your guests. Each one brings a comforting, creamy bite with a crisp edge. The hearty filling means no one leaves hungry. These potatoes become a breakaway favorite at potlucks.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Close-up of freshly baked cookies with nuts on top, arranged closely together.
Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Hand out homemade charm with Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans at your potluck. Their soft center and light crunch work for every crowd. The mellow flavor makes them easy to love. You’ll find they disappear quickly. Friends will request the recipe before they go.
Get the Recipe: Soft Pumpkin Cookies With Pecans

Seven Layer Salad

A clear glass bowl layered with lettuce, cherry tomatoes, green peas, corn, diced celery, and topped with chunks of grilled chicken, garnished with a dollop of mayonnaise.
Seven Layer Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Everyone enjoys grabbing a scoop of Seven Layer Salad from the center of the table. Each layer has its own spot, keeping things neat and colorful. The blend of textures makes it stand out at group meals. It goes well with any main course. Salad bowls empty fast when this is served.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

About the Author
A woman with long brown hair is smiling and standing with her arms crossed. She is wearing a sleeveless, black and white diamond-patterned dress.

Hey there! I’m Mandy

Mandy Applegate is a home cook, food blogger, and writer who believes the best meals are the ones shared with the people you love.

She’s all about easy recipes that taste amazing, the kind that make ordinary days feel a little more special and remind you why cooking at home matters.

She has been published on NBC, the Daily News, the Boston Herald, and the Chicago Sun-Times, amongst many others.

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