Thanksgiving Side Dish Rankings Released: Turkey Loses Top Spot

Bassyonni

ago 1 hour

Thanksgiving 2025 has brought new insights into America’s side dish preferences, revealing a significant shift in culinary priorities. According to the 2025 State of the Sides report, the classic turkey is losing its luster as side dishes increasingly take center stage at holiday meals.

Thanksgiving Side Dish Rankings Released: Turkey Loses Top Spot

This year, 63% of Americans expressed a preference for side dishes over the main entrée. This marks a noticeable increase compared to previous years, with nearly half of respondents stating they would be content with a plate filled solely with sides. This trend underscores the evolving dynamics of Thanksgiving celebrations.

Top 5 Thanksgiving Sides of 2025

The annual rankings showcase America’s clear favorites when it comes to holiday fare. Here are the top five side dishes:

1. Stuffing/Dressing: Dominating the rankings, stuffing remains the top choice in 42 states, celebrated for its comforting flavors and textures.
2. Mashed Potatoes: A timeless classic, mashed potatoes retain their No. 2 position, cherished for their creamy consistency and versatility.
3. Sweet Potatoes: Despite mixed feelings about this dish, with marshmallows frequently accompanying sweet potatoes, they continue to hold a significant place on the Thanksgiving table.
4. Mac & Cheese: Rising to fourth place, mac & cheese has garnered a dedicated following, particularly among Gen Z, who are driving its newfound popularity as a holiday staple.
5. Green Bean Casserole: Although it dropped to fifth, the iconic green bean casserole remains deeply rooted in American holiday traditions.

Additional Insights from the 2025 Report

The report unearthed some intriguing statistics about Thanksgiving preparations:

66% of Americans prefer cooking sides over roasting turkey.
48% experience “perfection anxiety” concerning their Thanksgiving meal.
85% of respondents agree that leftovers are one of the holiday’s highlights.
20% utilize AI tools, such as ChatGPT, to assist with meal planning.

As Thanksgiving approaches, these trends illustrate how culinary preferences are evolving. While turkey once claimed the spotlight, it appears that side dishes are now paving the way for a more diverse and satisfying holiday feast.