I Bring 29 Thanksgiving Potluck Dishes Everyone Tries First

Thanksgiving potlucks are never quiet when 29 dishes land on the table at once. People circle back for seconds before finishing their first plate. The “I’ll just try a little” crowd suddenly builds a mountain. That’s when it’s clear these are the ones everyone reaches for first.

Three slices of glazed meatloaf are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of brown sauce.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe. 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.

It’s hard to pass up French Onion Casserole. This dish is comforting and fits perfectly into the Thanksgiving vibe. The caramelized onion flavor paired with its rich base makes it one everyone reaches for first. It’s always gone before the end of the meal.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Casserole

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.

Putting together a Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board can really impress the crowd. It doubles as both a centerpiece and a snacking option. People love grazing on the variety it offers throughout the night. It’s entertaining, delicious, and great for sharing.
Get the Recipe: Festive Turkey Charcuterie Board

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.

With Cabbage Casserole, you bring a unique but comforting side to the celebration. It’s hearty and pairs well with traditional mains on the table. This dish gets attention because it offers something fresh and different from the usual sides. It can quickly become a staple for future gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Cabbage Casserole

Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

A festive plate of Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys crafted with chocolate, pretzels, candy corn, and candy eyes.
Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Everyone loves the idea of Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys. Combining sweet and salty flavors with an adorable presentation grabs attention immediately. Kids and adults alike can’t resist popping these in their mouths. It’s a nice way to add something playful to the dessert lineup.
Get the Recipe: Fun Rolo Pretzel Thanksgiving Turkeys

Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

A plate of golden-brown, cheesy sausage balls stacked on top of each other, with one ball partially broken to show the inside texture.
Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

The bite-sized Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls are always a hit. This snack is packed with bold, savory goodness that’s hard to put down. They’re handheld, making them ideal for potluck crowds. Before anyone realizes, they’re scooping up seconds and thirds.
Get the Recipe: Cheddar Bay Sausage Balls

Easy Cornbread Casserole

A portion of a cheesy, golden-brown savory cornbread casserole is being lifted from the dish, showing its flaky crust and gooey cheese filling.
Easy Cornbread Casserole. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

This is always one of those dishes everyone grabs first. Easy Cornbread Casserole pairs perfectly with everything on a Thanksgiving table. It’s soft and filling, making it a solid choice for any potluck. Expect this one to disappear fast because it’s a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Easy Cornbread Casserole

Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

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

Everyone loves a sweet touch, especially with Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins. They’re a perfect small bite after a hearty Thanksgiving meal. These muffins feel like dessert without being too heavy. Friends and family won’t wait long before digging in.
Get the Recipe: Blueberry Cheesecake Muffins

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.

Always a hit with everyone, Sausage Balls are quick to grab off the serving tray. They’re easy to share and deliver bold flavors in each bite. People love simple comfort foods, and this one is hard to pass up. It’s guaranteed to be one of the first plates to empty.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

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.

Not everyone thinks of salad first, but Beet Salad catches attention quickly. The vibrant colors make it stand out at any potluck table. It’s refreshing and offers a nice contrast to heavier dishes. This dish always surprises people who give it a try.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Three cinnamon rolls topped with white icing and sprinkled with cinnamon, served on a plate.
Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet and soft, Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls bring everyone over for seconds. They make for a perfect twist on a classic favorite. Great as a dessert or breakfast option, they fit right into the Thanksgiving spread. You’ll notice these right at the center of attention.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cinnamon Rolls

Amish Breakfast Casserole

A close-up of a serving of savory bread pudding with bacon and herbs being lifted from a white baking dish.
Amish Breakfast Casserole. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Amish Breakfast Casserole works well for brunch gatherings or the main table. It’s hearty enough to balance out lighter potluck dishes. You’ll love how filling it is without being overpowering. Guests never regret piling a bit of this onto their plates.
Get the Recipe: Amish Breakfast Casserole

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.

Finger foods like Garlic Butter Steak Bites always go fast. Their bold and satisfying flavor makes them irresistible at any Thanksgiving gathering. This is one dish people keep coming back to for more. Plates won’t stay full for long with these around.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Steak Bites

Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

A square piece of pumpkin dessert bar topped with a swirl of white frosting and pecans sits on a cooling rack.
Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Dessert lovers can’t skip trying Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars at least once. They combine rich sweetness with just the right texture. These bars make great individual portions for potluck convenience. Don’t be surprised if you’re asked to share the recipe.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pecan Pie Bars

Ham and Potato Casserole

A wooden spoon lifts a serving of cheesy casserole with chunks of ham and potatoes from a baking dish.
Ham and Potato Casserole. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

People always seem drawn to Ham and Potato Casserole at group gatherings. It’s warm, comforting, and substantial without being too heavy. Everyone loves dishes that feel homemade, making this a common favorite. You’ll see it disappear quicker than expected.
Get the Recipe: Ham and Potato Casserole

Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

A plate of five sticky buns topped with caramelized nuts and sauce, resting on a red cloth.
Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Sweet rolls like Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls are hard to resist. They combine familiar ingredients into small bites that feel indulgent but easy to share. Perfect for dessert tables, these are a hit with guests of all ages. They’re always among the first bakes to vanish.
Get the Recipe: Caramel Apple Hawaiian Rolls

Easy Tater Tot Casserole

A serving of tater tot casserole on a spoon.
Easy Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

You’ll find Easy Tater Tot Casserole is the kind of dish that gets everyone talking. It’s been a classic crowd-pleaser for as long as potlucks were a thing. This one feels cozy and gives big payoff in terms of flavor. More likely than not, folks will go back for seconds before dessert.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tater Tot Casserole

German Chocolate Cake

A slice of double-layer chocolate cake with a creamy filling and glossy chocolate frosting on top.
German Chocolate Cake. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A great dessert option, German Chocolate Cake gets attention right away. The rich frosting and layers make it stand apart. It’s one dish people grab even if they’re “too full for dessert.” This classic choice holds its spot at every holiday table.
Get the Recipe: German Chocolate Cake

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.

Everyone seems to know and love Funeral Potatoes at gatherings. It balances richness with crunch, making it irresistible to potluck crowds. You’ll hear nothing but compliments as guests load their plates. Fans of cheesy dishes will have this high on their list of favorites.
Get the Recipe: Funeral Potatoes

Easy Banana Pudding

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

Whether you need something on the sweeter side, Easy Banana Pudding packs just the right amount of layers to please any crowd. It’s a classic choice that never seems to stay untouched. Folks love how it balances creaminess and that special crunch. Be prepared for people to go back for seconds!
Get the Recipe: Easy Banana Pudding

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.

Everyone loves anything potato-based, and Twice Baked Potatoes get people talking every time. The mashed texture combined with a crispy edge is hard to resist. It’s the perfect mix for those who want something hearty and rich. Watch them disappear quickly off the serving table.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

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.

Warm bread is always welcomed at potlucks, especially something like Garlic Knots. They’re bite-sized and packed with just enough garlic to make people reach for more. Pairing them with other dishes is easy, and they’re great for soaking up extra sauce. Expect guest hands hovering over these until they’re all gone.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Knots

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.

For a chilled option at the table, Seven Layer Salad checks all the boxes. Its stacked presentation ensures every bite includes a bit of everything. It’s also a great light addition to balance out other heavy dishes. This one always stands out visually and practically vanishes by the end of the night.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

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.

You can never go wrong with Turkey Sliders at a potluck lineup. Not only are they small and sharable, but they’re also easy for folks to grab and go. These work great for kids and adults alike, making them a crowd favorite. They’ll soon become one of those items people ask for at every gathering.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Sliders

Deviled Eggs

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

Impress your friends this Thanksgiving with a plate of Deviled Eggs. Creamy and packed with flavor, these classics are a must-have for any potluck table. They always seem to run out quicker than any other dish. You’ll leave with an empty tray because no one can resist grabbing one more.
Get the Recipe: Deviled Eggs

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.

When you want a side dish with a little kick, Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls are a no-brainer. The creamy cheese, along with a slight spice and smoky bacon, turns heads fast. People love something they can enjoy with crackers or spread on bread. This dish loves to bring people together over its bold bites.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls

Green Bean Casserole

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

Some staples just belong at every gathering, like Green Bean Casserole. Both its crunchy topping and tender veggies work together to make it unforgettable. No matter how many casseroles are served, this one grabs attention first. It’s a solid choice when you want something classic but comforting.
Get the Recipe: Green Bean Casserole

Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Two slices of pumpkin s'mores pie on a white plate, topped with chocolate chips, graham crackers, and toasted marshmallows.
Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

When dessert hits the stage, you’ll want Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake on the table. Combining the gooeyness with a cookie cake base makes this treat shine. People can’t help but love the mix of flavors in every bite. Don’t expect leftovers, it will go fast.
Get the Recipe: Gooey Pumpkin S’mores Cookie Cake

Hashbrown Casserole

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

For an easy-to-serve dish with heartwarming goodness, Hashbrown Casserole brings great textures to the table. Its mix of cheesy richness with potatoes makes it so welcoming. People often reach for seconds before even finishing their first portion. This one always seems to be a potluck favorite.
Get the Recipe: Hashbrown Casserole

Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

Three slices of glazed meatloaf are arranged on a plate next to a bowl of brown sauce.
Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Known for being hearty and dependable, Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe wins approval across all ages. It’s packed into slices that are easy for guests to grab. Pairing it with other potluck dishes won’t cross any issues, it blends right in. This recipe never fails to hold a proud spot among the crowd favorites.
Get the Recipe: Cracker Barrel Meatloaf Recipe

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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