Ask the host first
A quick message saves a lot of duplicate mashed potatoes. Ask what is still needed, whether there is room in the oven or fridge, and if anyone has allergies. If the host has a sign-up list, claim your dish there.
Sides that travel well
- Green bean casserole, assembled at home and baked on arrival if there is room
- Roasted sweet potatoes or squash
- Stuffing in a covered dish
- Cranberry sauce, which keeps well and needs no heating
- A crisp salad with dressing on the side
Desserts
Pies are the classic, but more than three on one table is a lot. A second dessert that is not pie is often welcome.
- Pumpkin or apple pie
- Pecan bars, already cut
- Apple crisp in a dish you can leave behind
- A plate of cookies for the kids
If you cannot cook
- Good bread or dinner rolls from a bakery
- Wine, cider or sparkling juice
- Whipped cream and ice cream for the pies
- Extra chairs, serving spoons or foil containers for leftovers
- Flowers for the table, in their own vase
Keep the kitchen free
Bring your dish ready to serve or reheat in a slow cooker. On Thanksgiving the oven is usually booked from morning to dinner, and the host will thank you for needing nothing but a spoon.
How much to bring
For a side, plan on half a cup to a cup per person, since everyone takes a little of everything. A pie serves eight. If you are not sure, a dish for eight to ten covers most family dinners.
After dinner
Bring containers for leftovers, offer to wash your own dish, and take it home with you. Small things like that make it easy to invite you back.
Ready to plan yours?
Start with a ready-made list, then share one link. Guests don't need an account.
Start a Thanksgiving sheet