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You’re walking through the door with that dish you made—the one you just know everyone’s going to love.
People are piling in, arms full of all kinds of treats, setting down dishes they’ve either perfected over the years or decided to try out for a little fun.
You spot the classics mixed in with fresh twists, each one a piece of someone’s story.
And there’s you, adding your own special touch, bringing something that makes everyone wonder, “Who brought this one?”
That’s the beauty of a Thanksgiving potluck—it’s this huge blend of everyone’s favorite flavors and a few surprises that turn it into a true feast.
So, let’s dive into the potluck ideas that’ll have you stealing the spotlight, bringing that next-level flavor everyone will remember.
1. Sweet Potato Lasagna
Photo Credit: Crinkle Cookbook
This sweet potato lasagna is such a cozy twist! I love the layers of creamy ricotta and those tender sweet potatoes. It’s got that fall vibe written all over it. Trust me, everyone’s going to be asking you for the recipe.
2. Potato Croquettes
Photo Credit: Bake It With Love
These potato croquettes? Just wow. They’re crunchy on the outside, soft and creamy on the inside—pretty much the perfect little bite. If you bring these, you might just be the star of the potluck.
3. Thanksgiving Egg Rolls
Photo Credit: Kitchen Fun With 3 Sons
These Thanksgiving egg rolls are pure genius! I’m all about that mix of turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. You’ve gotta bring these—people will talk about them for days.
4. Arugula Apple Salad With Roasted Shallot Vinaigrette
Photo Credit: Snixy Kitchen
I know salads can seem boring, but this arugula apple salad is a total game-changer. It’s fresh, crunchy, and that apple gives it such a nice, crisp bite. You’ll love it as a break from all the heavy holiday dishes.
5. Dry Rub Baked Wings
Photo Credit: Mary’s Whole Life
These dry-rubbed wings are my new favorite! They’re baked, so you don’t feel too guilty, but the flavor is out of this world. If you’re a wing person, or even if you’re not, these will convert you.
6. French Onion Puff Pastry Pinwheels
Photo Credit: Floating Kitchen
These French onion pinwheels are next-level cozy. Think of everything you love about French onion soup wrapped in flaky pastry—seriously, I’m obsessed.
7. Creole Sausage Balls With Remoulade Dipping Sauce
Photo Credit: Salt & Lavender
If you’re into a little spice, these Creole sausage balls are where it’s at. I love the kick in every bite, and that remoulade sauce? You’ll be dipping and double-dipping because it’s just that good.
8. Mozzarella Stuffed Turkey Meatballs
Photo Credit: Lemons & Zest
Okay, hear me out: turkey meatballs with a gooey, cheesy center. Yep, these are everything! I can’t get enough of that mozzarella surprise in the middle.
9. Pizza Wonton Cups
Photo Credit: Simply Stacie
These pizza wonton cups are so fun! They’re like little bites of cheesy, pepperoni goodness with a crispy twist. I bet you’ll love how easy they are to snack on—you might even need to bring extra because they’ll go fast!
10. Lemon Pepper Wings
Photo Credit: Dinner At The Zoo
You’ve got to try these lemon pepper wings! I’m telling you, they’re everything—crispy, zesty, with that perfect pop of lemon. If you bring these to the potluck, everyone’s gonna be all over them. Trust me, they’re a hit.
11. Sloppy Joe Sliders
Photo Credit: xoxoBella
These sliders are fun and messy in the best way! Loaded with juicy, saucy meat and topped with melty cheese, they’re just begging to be devoured. I can already picture everyone reaching for seconds.
12. Buffalo Chicken Quesadillas
Photo Credit: Jo Cooks
Who can resist a good buffalo chicken quesadilla? It’s got that spicy buffalo kick with melty cheese and crispy tortillas. You’ll be everyone’s favorite person at the potluck with this one, I promise!
13. Smoked Salmon Roll-Ups With Creamy Lemon Dill Spread
Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud
These salmon roll-ups are so fresh and light! The smoked salmon with cream cheese and greens gives each bite a burst of flavor. Perfect for a potluck appetizer, they’re elegant but super easy to snack on.
14. Garlic Butter Steak Bites
Photo Credit: Wholesome Yum
These steak bites are pure magic. They’re tender, juicy, and covered in a rich garlic butter sauce. You know they won’t last long once people start tasting them.
15. Cajun Blackened Chicken Cutlets
Photo Credit: Dizzy Busy And Hungry
These blackened chicken cutlets are the definition of flavor! They’re perfectly seasoned, with just the right amount of spice. I love how they’re crispy on the outside but so juicy inside—definitely a crowd-pleaser.
16. Cobb Salad
Photo Credit: Spend With Pennies
The Cobb salad is a classic for a reason! You’ve got all the best stuff in there: crispy bacon, creamy avocado, tangy cheese, and hard-boiled eggs. It’s a whole meal in itself, and I know you’ll appreciate having something light and refreshing on the spread.
17. Creamy Shrimp Tomato Pasta
Photo Credit: Cookies And Cups
This shrimp pasta is so fresh and flavorful! I can’t get enough of that juicy shrimp with the sweet tomatoes and garlic. You’ll feel like you’re having a restaurant-quality meal right at the potluck.
18. Marinated Gigante Beans
Photo Credit: Love And Lemons
These marinated beans are surprisingly addictive. They’re soft, herby, and have a touch of tang from the sun-dried tomatoes. You’ll love how fresh and vibrant they taste—perfect for adding something unique to the table.
19. Chicken Taco Pasta
Photo Credit: Well Plated
This is the perfect fusion of tacos and pasta! It’s got all that spicy, cheesy goodness mixed into hearty pasta. Trust me, if you’re craving something bold, this dish will have you going back for seconds.
20. Potato And Cheese Pierogi
Photo Credit: Life As A Strawberry
Who doesn’t love soft dumplings filled with creamy potatoes and gooey cheese? You and I both know these will be the comfort food everyone reaches for at the potluck.
21. Ground Beef And Cabbage Skillet
Photo Credit: Running To The Kitchen
This skillet dish is hearty and full of flavor. Ground beef, tender cabbage, and a savory sauce make it so satisfying. It’s a warm, homey dish that feels right at home on the Thanksgiving table, especially if you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that still tastes amazing.
22. Oven Baked Chicken And Rice
Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen
The chicken gets so juicy while baking, and the rice absorbs all those delicious flavors. It’s comforting, filling, and perfect for Thanksgiving because everyone loves a good chicken and rice dish.
23. Pork Tenderloin With Mustard Sauce
Photo Credit: Maple + Mango
Pork tenderloin is such a crowd-pleaser, especially with a creamy mustard sauce. This dish is juicy, flavorful, and a bit fancy without being fussy. It’s one of those recipes that look like you put in tons of effort, but really, it’s pretty simple!
24. Healthy Chicken Piccata
Photo Credit: Chew Out Loud
Lemon, capers, and tender chicken—what’s not to love about chicken piccata? It’s elegant and flavorful without being too heavy. The zesty lemon sauce makes it light and refreshing, which is a nice contrast to the richer Thanksgiving dishes.
25. Beef Lo Mein
Photo Credit: Well Plated
Bringing a noodle dish like beef lo mein adds a comforting twist to the Thanksgiving table. It’s packed with tender beef, fresh veggies, and flavorful noodles. Every bite is savory and delicious, and it’s perfect for those who want a little break from the traditional turkey and stuffing.
26. Cheeseburger Salad
Photo Credit: Simply Stacie
This salad is a little unexpected but always a hit. Imagine everything you love about a cheeseburger—ground beef, tomatoes, lettuce, cheese—served as a salad. It’s hearty but fresh, and you can even add some croutons to mimic the bun. People love it because it’s familiar yet unique.
27. Thai Pumpkin Chicken Curry
Photo Credit: Mary’s Whole Life
If you want to add a hint of international flavor, this Thai pumpkin curry is it! It’s creamy, slightly spicy, and packed with fall veggies. I love the warmth and coziness it brings to the table, and the pumpkin adds such a seasonal vibe.
28. Air Fryer Stuffed Chicken Breasts
Photo Credit: Spend With Pennies
Air fryer recipes are lifesavers, right? These stuffed chicken breasts are juicy with a crispy skin and a gooey cheese filling. They’re super easy to make and turn out beautifully golden every time.
29. BLT Pasta Salad
Photo Credit: Love And Lemons
BLT pasta salad is like the best parts of a BLT sandwich but in pasta form. Fresh tomatoes, crispy bacon, creamy avocado, and tender pasta all tossed in a light dressing. It’s a fan favorite because it’s so refreshing yet satisfying—perfect for those who love something light yet flavorful.
30. Breaded Fried Calamari
Photo Credit: Bake It With Love
I always go for seconds when these are on the table. They’re perfect if you want to bring a touch of seafood elegance to the potluck while still keeping it approachable and familiar.
31. Ground Beef Enchiladas
Photo Credit: Little Sunny Kitchen
These enchiladas are cheesy, saucy, and oh-so-satisfying. They’re loaded with seasoned beef and topped with gooey cheese, perfect for adding a bit of spice to your Thanksgiving lineup.
32. Sheet Pan Roasted Shrimp Tacos
Photo Credit: How Sweet Eats
Light and fresh, these tacos are a great option for a Thanksgiving potluck. Topped with tangy slaw and a sprinkle of lime, they bring a bright flavor to the table.
33. Apple Crumb Bars
Photo Credit: Chocolate Moosey
These bars are perfect for those who love a good apple dessert but prefer something handheld. With a buttery crumble topping and tender apples, it’s like fall in a bite.
34. Blueberry Bread Pudding
Photo Credit: Dinner At The Zoo
This dish is a burst of flavor, with juicy blueberries and a soft, custardy texture. It’s topped with a caramel drizzle, making it the ultimate comfort dessert.
35. Sweet Potato Casserole
Photo Credit: Salt & Lavender
A classic holiday favorite, this casserole is topped with toasted marshmallows and crunchy pecans. It’s sweet, comforting, and goes perfectly with the savory dishes on the table.
36. Gluten-Free White Chocolate Matcha Brownies
Photo Credit: Snixy Kitchen
These unique brownies are a hit for matcha lovers! The earthy matcha flavor paired with creamy white chocolate creates a dessert that’s both delicious and visually striking.
37. Baked Apple Cider Donuts
Photo Credit: Sally’s Baking Addiction
Nothing screams fall more than apple cider, and these doughnuts capture that flavor beautifully. They’re soft, with just the right hint of spice, and they taste even better with a dusting of cinnamon sugar.
38. Applesauce Coffee Cake
Photo Credit: Butter & Bliss
This coffee cake is moist and subtly sweet, thanks to the applesauce. It’s perfect as a light dessert or even a cozy breakfast for the morning after Thanksgiving.
39. Kit Kat Brownies
Photo Credit: Kitchen Fun With My 3 Sons
Imagine the classic brownie, but with a Kit Kat twist. Each bite is filled with rich chocolate, and the Kit Kat layers add a delightful crunch. It’s a treat that’s both nostalgic and fun!
40. Chocolate Pecan Pie
Photo Credit: Well Plated
This pie is pure decadence! Picture a flaky crust filled with gooey chocolate and nutty pecans, offering that perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. It’s the dessert everyone will go back for seconds.
41. Blueberry Peach Galette With Cinnamon Sugar Crust
Photo Credit: How Sweet Eats
If you want something that looks stunning and tastes even better, this blueberry peach galette with cinnamon sugar crust is where it’s at. It’s got that beautiful, rustic look that feels so effortlessly elegant.
42. Apple Hand Pies
Photo Credit: Jo Cooks
I’m telling you, these apple hand pies are a total game-changer! Each bite is packed with warm, cinnamon-kissed apple filling wrapped in a golden, flaky crust. They’re like mini apple pies but with that extra rustic charm – perfect for a cozy Thanksgiving vibe.
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