Your Ultimate Guide to Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Discover easy recipes for a festive fall gathering—crowd-pleasing appetizers, fun drinks, desserts, and more.
If you’re celebrating Friendsgiving this year, you’re in the right place! Below, I’ve rounded up my best Friendsgiving food ideas—bite-size appetizers, batch cocktails, classic side dishes, and easy desserts. Whether you’re hosting or just bringing a dish to pass, you’ll find Friendsgiving recipes to try.
In the past, we celebrated Friendsgiving on Thanksgiving, as we lived away from family and didn’t travel for the holiday. Nowadays, it’s common to do both—a Friendsgiving earlier in November followed by a traditional Thanksgiving feast with family later on. This arrangement turns Friendsgiving into an opportunity to get creative with your holiday cooking.
I’ve included a mix of traditional and inventive Friendsgiving recipes below—I hope they help you craft a menu you love!
Classic Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Best Stuffing
Stuffing is a must for any holiday gathering. Instead of opting for a boxed version, try this from-scratch recipe using good bread, celery, and a mix of fresh herbs. It may just steal the spotlight at your Friendsgiving!
Best Mashed Potatoes
Experience the creamiest mashed potatoes you’ve ever tasted! Made with just seven ingredients, these potatoes are not only easy to make but also reheat beautifully.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
For a green touch, add roasted Brussels sprouts to your table. Enhance their flavor with lemon, herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Homemade Dinner Rolls
Delight your guests with these soft, flaky, and buttery rolls. They’re guaranteed to be a hit!
Sweet Potato Casserole
This vegan twist on the holiday classic replaces mini marshmallows with a savory pecan and oat topping. It’s delicious and innovative!
Green Bean Casserole
Upgrade your green bean casserole with a homemade mushroom sauce and fresh green beans for a delicious from-scratch version.
Homemade Mac and Cheese
This essential Friendsgiving dish is made even better with a crispy breadcrumb topping and three types of cheese.
Cranberry Sauce
This quick and easy cranberry sauce can be made in just 15 minutes with only four ingredients—perfect for any last-minute touches.
Table of Ingredients
| Dish | Key Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Stuffing | Bread, celery, herbs |
| Mashed Potatoes | Potatoes, cream, butter |
| Roasted Brussels Sprouts | Brussels sprouts, lemon, Parmesan |
| Sweet Potato Casserole | Sweet potatoes, pecans, oats |
| Green Bean Casserole | Green beans, mushrooms, cream |
| Homemade Mac and Cheese | Macaroni, cheese, breadcrumbs |
| Cranberry Sauce | Cranberries, sugar, water |
Friendsgiving Drinks and Snacks
Puff Pastry Brie Bites
These fig and brie bites are a beautiful addition to your spread. Easy to prepare with store-bought puff pastry, they’re sure to impress your guests!
Stuffed Mushrooms
These delicious stuffed mushrooms are packed with a crispy breadcrumb filling and are a favorite party snack.
Apple Cider Sangria
This sparkling apple cider sangria serves a crowd without the hassle of making cocktails to order.
Whipped Feta Dip
This addictive dip can be whipped up in just five minutes. Serve it with fresh vegetables or crackers.
Cheese Board
The easiest Friendsgiving appetizer consists of various cheeses paired with fresh fruit, olives, and nuts. It’s perfect for grazing!
Fun Friendsgiving Side Dishes
Shaved Brussels Sprout Salad
This bright, fresh salad balances the heartiness of your main dishes and can be prepared in advance.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese
Your guests will adore this comforting dish with an autumn twist!
Roasted Rainbow Carrots
Tender, caramelized carrots topped with tahini sauce and bursty pomegranates make for a stunning side dish.
Cornbread Stuffing
This sweet and savory stuffing is sure to disappear quickly!
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
For a quicker alternative to a traditional sweet potato casserole, this creamy mash is a must-try.
Garlic Knots
Soft and fluffy, these garlic knots are a delightful twist on dinner rolls.
Butternut Squash Salad
This fresh salad blends roasted squash and chewy dates with a spiced cider dressing.
Friendsgiving Recipes for Dessert
Pumpkin Tiramisu
This no-bake pumpkin tiramisu is perfect for those short on oven space but looking to make an impression.
Easy Pumpkin Cake
This moist cake, topped with cream cheese frosting, is just as delightful as pie!
Apple Crisp
A timeless dessert, a classic apple crisp is always a crowd favorite. Served warm with ice cream, it’s perfection!
Soft Pumpkin Cookies
These delightful mini cakes are a beloved treat for any fall gathering.
Vegan Pumpkin Pie
This rich and creamy vegan pumpkin pie will leave your guests guessing— they’ll never realize it’s plant-based!
Best Homemade Brownies
Rich, chewy, and fudgy, these brownies rival any boxed mix!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some crowd-pleasing Friendsgiving recipes?
Consider classic dishes like stuffing, mashed potatoes, and homemade mac and cheese. Unique appetizers such as stuffed mushrooms and puff pastry bites also make great choices!
How can I make vegan options for Friendsgiving?
There are plenty of delicious vegan options available, such as vegan pumpkin pie and sweet potato casserole with pecan topping. Don’t hesitate to incorporate plant-based recipes!