The Best and Worst Foods to Serve on Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time to gather, feast, and celebrate, but not all dishes are created equal. For every classic that gets devoured, there’s a side that remains untouched. Let’s dive into the best and worst foods on the Thanksgiving table, alternating between the stars and the flops of the holiday spread.
Best: Turkey
The centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal, turkey is versatile and delicious, whether you like it roasted, smoked, or deep-fried. Just don’t forget the gravy!
Worst: Canned Cranberry Sauce
Canned cranberry sauce is divisive. While some enjoy its nostalgic appeal, others can’t get past its jiggly, processed texture.
Best: Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Nothing says Thanksgiving like roasted sweet potatoes caramelized to perfection. Whether you like them simply seasoned or topped with marshmallows, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Worst: Oysters
Oysters at Thanksgiving? Some families love them, but for many, their briny, slimy texture feels out of place on this cozy holiday table.
Best: Gravy
Gravy ties the whole meal together. Drizzle it over turkey, mashed potatoes, or stuffing, and suddenly everything tastes better.
Worst: Creamed Spinach
While spinach is healthy, its creamed version often earns a collective “meh.” The mushy texture and bland flavor rarely excite anyone.
Best: Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie is the quintessential Thanksgiving dessert. Its spiced, creamy filling and flaky crust are the perfect way to cap off the meal.
Worst: Peas
Peas may be nutritious, but they’re often seen as filler on the Thanksgiving plate. Their mild flavor struggles to compete with more exciting dishes.
Best: Apple Pie
Apple pie, with its warm cinnamon filling and golden crust, is a holiday staple that never goes out of style. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for extra indulgence.
Worst: Cooked Spinach
Cooked spinach might be fine in other settings, but on Thanksgiving, it often feels like an uninvited guest. Its watery texture doesn’t help its case.
Best: Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, buttery mashed potatoes are a Thanksgiving essential. They pair beautifully with turkey and are even better with a pool of gravy.
Worst: Green Bean Casserole
Green bean casserole has its fans, but for others, the mushy texture and overly rich sauce are a no-go. The fried onion topping can only do so much.
Best: Mac and Cheese
Golden, gooey, and cheesy, mac and cheese is a side dish that everyone loves. Its comforting richness makes it a perfect fit for Thanksgiving.
Worst: Cooked Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts can be delicious when roasted but cooked to soggy oblivion? That’s a recipe for wrinkled noses around the table.
Best: Glazed Ham
Glazed ham is a showstopper. Its sweet, smoky flavor provides a delightful alternative to turkey for those seeking variety.
Worst: Boxed Stuffing
Stuffing is a classic, but the boxed variety often disappoints. Its overly processed taste and mushy texture can’t compete with homemade.
Charlie Golsley
