33 Thanksgiving Potluck Recipes I Make Again and Again

There’s something about Thanksgiving potlucks that brings out both excitement and a tiny bit of stress. Everyone wants to bring a dish that stands out but also doesn’t require a last-minute panic. That’s why having 33 reliable recipes makes life easier; no guessing, no flops, just crowd-pleasers every time.

A close-up of decadent bread pudding, topped with creamy vanilla sauce, is being lifted from a serving plate. — Homemade Bread Pudding. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Turkey Tetrazzini

This comforting pasta dish has been my go-to contribution to Thanksgiving potlucks over the years. Turkey Tetrazzini combines tender turkey pieces, creamy sauce, and spaghetti into a warm, hearty casserole perfect for sharing. Its ability to bring people together at the table makes it an easy choice every season.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Tetrazzini

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

A close-up of several chocolate chip cookies on parchment paper, with one cookie broken in half to show the chocolate chips inside. — Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies. Photo credit: Your Perfect Recipes.

Every Thanksgiving, these cookies are the first to vanish from dessert tables. Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies blend the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with rich chocolate chips, creating a dessert everyone gravitates toward. Their soft texture and fall-inspired flavor make them an instant hit.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Turkey Meatballs

Close-up of meatballs covered in gravy, topped with chopped parsley, resting on mashed potatoes. — Turkey Meatballs. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

Whenever I attend a potluck, I know these meatballs will be a crowd-pleaser. Turkey Meatballs are bite-sized, flavorful, and versatile, making them a great appetizer or side dish. They work beautifully with dipping sauces or alongside a hearty main course. Plus, their simplicity allows me to prepare them ahead of time without stress.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Meatballs

Pumpkin Cake

One of my most requested contributions at Thanksgiving is this soft, spiced treat. Pumpkin Cake is moist and infused with warm autumn flavors, making it an ideal dessert for the season. A cream cheese frosting topping adds just the right amount of richness. It has become a tradition for me to bake it every year without fail!
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Cake

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.

No potluck spread feels complete until I add this crowd-pleasing appetizer to the mix. Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese Balls feature creamy cheese mixed with crispy bacon and a touch of jalapeño spice. Served with crackers or fresh veggies, they offer an incredible bite that brings people back for seconds.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Bacon and Jalapeño Cheese 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.

This salad is a vibrant addition to the Thanksgiving table, balancing freshness with heartiness. Beet Salad combines roasted beets, rich greens, and tangy cheese for eye-catching color and a great flavor contrast. The dish is simple but feels unique among traditional sides.
Get the Recipe: Beet Salad

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.

At every Thanksgiving potluck, this rich and creamy favorite takes center stage. Mac and Cheese is the ultimate comfort food that pleases both kids and adults alike. Its cheesy layers and golden top make it hard to resist. I also love how easy it is to make it in large portions, perfect for sharing with loved ones.
Get the Recipe: Mac and Cheese

Turkey Pinwheels

When a lighter option is needed but still demands flavor, this dish is my go-to. Turkey Pinwheels are rolled tortilla bites filled with turkey, cream cheese, and vibrant vegetables. They are quick to assemble and a portable, mess-free snack for guests to enjoy. The combination of textures always stands out among other dishes.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pinwheels

Antipasto Skewers

An elegant and easy option, these colorful skewers always brighten the holiday table. Antipasto Skewers feature a mix of cured meats, cheese, olives, and veggies, offering bite-sized goodness for the guests. They are great for snacking while waiting for the main meal and can be made ahead with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Skewers

Twice Baked Potatoes

These hearty potato creations have become one of my signature holiday dishes. Twice Baked Potatoes are packed with cheesy, creamy filling and topped with crispy goodness, perfect for any Thanksgiving potluck. They are fulfilling and work wonderfully alongside other traditional side dishes.
Get the Recipe: Twice Baked Potatoes

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 visually impressive addition to the spread, this is my top choice. Seven Layer Salad showcases vibrant layers of fresh vegetables, bacon bits, cheese, and dressing all in one bowl. It’s effortless for guests to serve themselves while offering a range of flavors.
Get the Recipe: Seven Layer Salad

Vegetable Beef Soup

A bowl of beef stew with chunks of meat, potatoes, carrots, and peas in a brown broth, garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegetable Beef Soup. Photo credit: My Reliable Recipes.

A hearty dish that always finds a spot at my Thanksgiving potluck is Vegetable Beef Soup. Full of tender beef, vibrant veggies, and a flavorful broth, it’s perfect for those who crave a warm, comforting main course. It’s easy to prepare and even better when made ahead to enhance the flavors.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Beef Soup

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.

Breakfast lovers cherish Sheet Pan Pancakes at potlucks, especially for morning gatherings on Thanksgiving weekend. These streamlined, fluffy treats are baked all at once, eliminating the need for flipping individual pancakes on the stovetop. They’re customizable with toppings like berries, nuts, or syrup.
Get the Recipe: Sheet Pan Pancakes

Stuffing Balls

The perfect portion-sized holiday dish, Stuffing Balls, is a favorite I never skip for Thanksgiving potlucks. These bite-sized creations turn traditional stuffing into effortless servings. Packed with fresh herbs, bread cubes, and savory spices, they bake easily on a tray and pair wonderfully with turkey or gravy.
Get the Recipe: Stuffing Balls

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

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

Maple Glazed Turkey Breast is a standout for Thanksgiving potlucks. Coated in a sweet yet balanced glaze, the turkey breast stays moist and shines with festive appeal. It’s more manageable than a whole turkey but still feels like a celebration. This dish always gets compliments and suits crowds of all sizes.
Get the Recipe: Maple Glazed Turkey Breast

Antipasto Salad

A bowl of salad with mixed greens, prosciutto, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichokes, and roasted red peppers. — Antipasto Salad. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

For lighter additions to Thanksgiving spreads, Antipasto Salad has proven itself a dependable crowd-pleaser. Loaded with cured meats, cheese, olives, and crunchy vegetables, it provides a fresh yet flavorful bite amidst heavier dishes. Its vibrant mix appeals to both kids and adults and always disappears quickly.
Get the Recipe: Antipasto Salad

Potato Skins

Potluck dishes in high demand include Potato Skins, a classic snack everyone reaches for. These crispy shells filled with cheese, bacon, and green onions make an irresistible appetizer or side dish. Prepared in batches for large groups, they’re always a crowd favorite.
Get the Recipe: Potato Skins

Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Chocolate cupcakes with white frosting and small pastel-colored marshmallows on top, arranged in a group against a neutral background. — Hot Chocolate Cupcakes. Photo credit: Pocket Friendly Recipes.

A dessert guaranteed to impress is Hot Chocolate Cupcakes, featuring rich chocolate layers and a marshmallow frosting. They capture the cozy essence of the holiday season in a single bite. Ideal for Thanksgiving potlucks, these cupcakes combine fun presentation with indulgent flavor.
Get the Recipe: Hot Chocolate Cupcakes

Pork Belly

Sliced roast pork with crispy, golden-brown skin on a wooden surface. — Pork Belly. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

For something slightly unconventional yet memorable, Pork Belly always earns its place at my Thanksgiving potluck. Slow-cooked to tender perfection, its rich flavor and caramelized crust complement traditional spreads beautifully. Guests enjoy its unique take among holiday classics, making it a welcome addition.
Get the Recipe: Pork Belly

Apple Cobbler

Classic desserts like Apple Cobbler never fail to satisfy guests at my gatherings. With a soft, apple-filled base topped by a buttery crust, it captures the flavors of fall. It’s simple to prepare and serves well warm with a scoop of ice cream or whipped cream.
Get the Recipe: Apple Cobbler

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

A close-up of meatballs in a creamy sauce with herbs, sun-dried tomatoes, and a side of white rice, with a fork picking up one meatball. — Marry Me Chicken Meatballs. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Marry Me Chicken Meatballs deliver big flavor to Thanksgiving gatherings and are perfect for sharing. Juicy, well-seasoned, and drenched in a creamy parmesan sauce, these meatballs create excitement for those wanting something different. They’re loved because they’re not only fun but also easy to grab and enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chicken Meatballs

Red Lentil Soup

A bowl of lentil curry garnished with chopped cilantro and a swirl of cream, with a spoon in the bowl. — Red Lentil Soup. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

A lighter but still fulfilling dish at Thanksgiving spreads is Red Lentil Soup. It’s hearty enough to warm everyone up but doesn’t overwhelm them with heavy flavors. Made with lentils and a blend of spices, it’s a nutritious yet tasty option for vegetarians or those seeking balance.
Get the Recipe: Red Lentil Soup

Pumpkin Bars

Seasonal desserts like Pumpkin Bars never go out of style during Thanksgiving potlucks. These soft, spiced bars encapsulate the essence of fall in every bite. Their ease of preparation combined with their consistent appeal ensures they’ll continue to feature in my holiday menu.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Bars

Roasted Broccoli

Roasted Broccoli are a welcome balance at Thanksgiving spreads filled with rich dishes. Roasted until perfectly tender with slightly crisp edges, it’s flavored simply with olive oil and garlic. It complements heavier options on the table while being quick to prepare. A reliable choice for adding greens to any potluck feast.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Broccoli

Pumpkin Soup

Seasonal warmers like Pumpkin Soup have earned a place in my Thanksgiving lineup. This smooth, creamy dish is rich in fall flavors and surprisingly easy to make. Served in a bowl or as part of the main meal, it adds an elegant touch to the holiday table.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Soup

Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

A roasted turkey stuffed with vegetables is served on a platter, surrounded by various side dishes including rolls, salad, and stuffing. — Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Thanksgiving without Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing feels incomplete. Instead of the standard turkey, the cranberry stuffing transforms it with balanced sweetness. Easy to carve and serve, it’s a centerpiece you’ll always be proud to share. This recipe continues to deliver tradition and flavor each year.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Turkey with Cranberry Stuffing

Rotel Dip

A skillet filled with creamy cheese dip topped with chopped tomatoes, green onions, cilantro, and sliced jalapeños, surrounded by triangular tortilla chips. — Rotel Dip. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

A classic potluck favorite, Rotel Dip is practically a requirement for Thanksgiving feasts. Cheesy and satisfying, the addition of spicy Rotel transforms the flavor profile of this crowd-pleasing appetizer. Whether paired with chips or vegetables, it vanishes quickly. It’s a dependable, easy-to-make dish everyone enjoys.
Get the Recipe: Rotel Dip

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.

Among shareable appetizers, Sausage Balls always make an appearance at my yearly Thanksgiving potluck. They’re bite-sized snacks made from sausage, herbs, and cheese baked to golden perfection. These portable bites don’t take long to prepare and are universally loved.
Get the Recipe: Sausage Balls

Sautéed Kale

For fresh options, Sautéed Kale works as a brilliant addition to Thanksgiving spreads. Quickly wilted and enhanced with garlic or onion, it provides a flavorful bite that’s easy on prep too. Its vivid green color and versatility pair seamlessly with heavier dishes on the table. This recipe is one I’ll continue making year after year.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Kale

Shepherd’s Pie

The ultimate comfort food for big gatherings, Shepherd’s Pie is a classic dish that guests appreciate every time. Layers of savory ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes make it a complete meal. It’s easy to prepare ahead and transport to potluck feasts.
Get the Recipe: Shepherd’s Pie

Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Close-up of a beef pot roast with mushrooms, carrots, and garnished with rosemary sprigs on a white plate. — Slow Cooker Pot Roast. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Few dishes rival the hearty satisfaction of Slow Cooker Pot Roast, especially during a Thanksgiving potluck. With tender cuts of beef, flavored by slow cooking, it’s joined by vegetables that soak up rich juices. This one-pot recipe simplifies cleanup, making it ideal for busy Thanksgiving preparations.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Turkey Meatloaf

Kind of a twist on the traditional turkey centerpiece, Turkey Meatloaf adds variety to my Thanksgiving spread. It’s tender, flavorful, and quick to prepare for a crowd. Guests enjoy the approachable nature of this dish, and it pairs nicely with gravy or cranberry sauce. Year after year, it proves to be a hit with turkey lovers.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Meatloaf

Homemade Bread Pudding

Sweet endings often include Homemade Bread Pudding, a timeless dessert that never disappoints at holiday tables. Made with softened bread, sugar, and simple additions like raisins or caramel, it’s easy to prepare ahead. Its warm, comforting flavors are ideal for closing a fabulous feast.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Bread Pudding