Home / Recipes / Recipe Roundups / 35+ Friendsgiving Food Ideas
Published on November 18, 2022 · Updated on November 4, 2023 · By Aysegul Sanford
These Friendsgiving food ideas will transform your holiday get-together into an event as festive as it is delicious. Easy and tasty, these picture-perfect recipes include everything from five-minute appetizers to gluten-free desserts. Like my Thanksgiving Side Dishes, these menu ideas will satisfy your fall cravings while also serving a crowd. Never wonder what to bring to a Friendsgiving potluck again with this mouthwatering collection.
Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes mins
Cook Time: 15 minutes mins
Total: 35 minutes mins
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If you’re a fan of holiday potlucks, then you’ll love this delicious collection of easy things to make for your next Friendsgiving celebration. All your friends—beginner chefs included!—can whip something up from this ultimate party menu. Not only are these recipes a cinch to serve, but they also have everything from Friendsgiving snack ideas to Friendsgiving dinner ideas. It doesn’t matter if you want to make a succulent turkey for six or a veggie side for twelve. There’s a crowd-ready recipe for everyone!
Table of Contents show
Snack Ideas
If you’re in need of inspiration for Friendsgiving food ideas, appetizers are an excellent (and delicious!) place to start. Get the party started with this collection of stress-free dishes that come together quickly. Whether you make a cheesy dip or tart apple bites, these Friendsgiving snacks are guaranteed to whet your appetite.
- Warm Goat Cheese Dip: No one can resist goat cheese’s rich, earthy taste. Mixed with cream cheese, Parmesan, and chives, this effortless dip will be a guaranteed hit. Check out my favorite goat cheese recipes for even more tasty snack ideas.
- Bread Dipping Oil: This five-minute recipe explodes with garden-fresh flavor. Fresh herbs, dried spices, garlic, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil come together for a crowd-pleasing appetizer perfect for a casual Friendsgiving menu.
- Blackberry Baked Brie: You can’t have a true potluck Friendsgiving without a baked brie. Equal parts creamy and tart, this photo-ready dish packs great flavor with spicy candied pecans, fruity compote, and pomegranate garnish.
- Cheese Charcuterie Board: One quick trip to the grocery store is all that’s necessary to put this easy Friendsgiving recipe together. Savory meats, nutty cheeses, and plump fruit make this exquisite dish as tasty as it is beautiful.
- Apple Cheese Appetizer: If you’re wondering what to bring to Friendsgiving that takes almost no time to make, look no further than this super easy recipe. Sweet apples, tangy blue cheese, and toasted walnuts give every bite an unbelievable taste.
- Carrot Hummus: When planning snacks for Friendsgiving, this festive take on Mediterranean hummus is just what you need. The caramelized roasted carrots, savory tahini, and creamy chickpeas will add a brilliant pop of color to any appetizer spread.
- Roasted Chestnuts: Buttery, sweet, and perfectly toasted, roasted chestnuts are one of my favorite fun Friendsgiving recipes. You could even turn this recipe into a festive group activity by roasting chestnuts on an open fire!
- Spinach Artichoke Dip: This oven-baked dip recipe uses four kinds of cheese—cream cheese, mozzarella, gruyere, and Parmesan—to give each bite an ooey-gooey flavor. This creamy side is guaranteed to please, whether you serve it with tortilla chips, veggies, or even pita bread.
- Savory Cornbread Muffins: Flavored with rich cheddar cheese and a zesty kick of scallions, these savory muffins are not your average cornbread. Perfectly portable, they are the ideal dish to treat your friends. Bring a batch to your next Friendsgiving party and watch them disappear in no time!
Dinner Ideas
When preparing your Friendsgiving dinner menu, the last thing you want to do is waste the day laboring over an entire roast turkey. Now you can take the stress out of dinner meal prep with these tender, savory, and filling entrées! From smaller turkey portions to succulent chicken dishes, this list is full of effortless ideas for what to make for Friendsgiving.
- Roasted Turkey Tenderloin: Succulent, tender, and perfectly cooked, this oven-roasted turkey fillet will have everyone asking for seconds. To give your Friendsgiving meal extra savory flavor, you could also prepare it with my herby Turkey Loin Marinade.
- Roasted Turkey Legs: No one can resist the crisp, juicy taste of an oven-cooked turkey leg. Not only does this recipe make perfectly roasted turkey every time, but you could also cook turkey legs in the air fryer for quicker preparation.
- Crispy Baked Turkey Wings: To me, this baked wings recipe is possibly one of the best friendsgiving dishes as it delivers big results with minimal work. The secret to perfectly juicy turkey wings is cooking them low and slow. With only 10 minutes of hands-on time, you can serve this dish by itself or atop of cooked rice or mashed potatoes with a drizzle of turkey gravy that you can make using the leftover juices in the pan.
- Roasted Cornish Game Hens: Looking for Friendsgiving food ideas that aren’t turkey? You can prepare these perfectly portioned birds a day in advance and skip the hassle of roasting a whole turkey. It is such a visually pleasing (and perfectly portioned main course, and it is rather easy to make. You can also find dozens of tasty pairings in my collection of sides to serve with cornish hens.
- Roast Chicken with Potatoes: If you’re looking for turkey-alternative entrée ideas, roasted chicken is the way to go. Perfectly seasoned and paired with buttery Yukon Gold potatoes, this one-pan recipe comes together with just seven simple ingredients.
- Goat Cheese-Stuffed Chicken: Say goodbye to boring Friendsgiving meal ideas with this flavor-packed main. Not only is this juicy chicken baked to perfection, but it also comes with a creamy brown-butter sauce that will have your guests licking their plates clean.
- Ina Garten’s Pot Roast: Planning a non-traditional Friendsgiving menu to fill everyone up? This full-bodied dish is as filling as it is appetizing, filled with savory beef, tender veggies, and a delectable red wine sauce. You could even cut your cooking time in half by making a Pressure Cooker Roast version!
Side Dishes
Out of all the things to bring to Friendsgiving, sides are a must. These Friendsgiving side dishes include everything from creamy potatoes to savory stuffing, crisp salad, roasted veggies, and beyond. Serve up any of these hassle-free classic side dishes, and your potluck spread will be party-ready in no time.
- Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes: You can’t go wrong with a classic. These fluffy, rosemary-infused creamy mashed potatoes are whipped to perfection and only take 35 minutes to make. You could even prepare this dish ahead of time to shave down on kitchen time.
- Sweet Potato Mash Recipe: You don’t need to add dozens of ingredients to your Friendsgiving food list with this simple recipe. Made with just seven ingredients, this rich and creamy stovetop sweet potato dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, and it is easy to make even for beginning-level home cooks.
- Vegan Mac and Cheese: Mac and cheese made healthier with homemade cashew sauce. This one pot recipe is a great side dish for your friends and family who are observing a vegan diet.
- Trisha Yearwood’s Sweet Potato Casserole: Topped with a brown sugar-pecan streusel and sweetened with cane sugar, this sweet potato souffle is one of the tastiest things to take to a Friendsgiving meal. Impress your guests and delight your tastebuds with this oven-baked masterpiece.
- Vegetarian Cornbread Stuffing: Nothing says “good Friendsgiving dishes” like a fresh batch of warm stuffing. This savory recipe packs tons of fall veggies—like green beans, corn, and onions—and it even has a secret ingredient for a tiny kick of spice: Jiffy Jalapeno Cornbread.
- Spinach Artichoke Pasta: Gooey mozzarella, baby spinach, and hearty artichoke hearts make an incomparable pair in this Friendsgiving dish idea. With all the rich flavor of spinach artichoke dip, this crowd-pleasing dish is a total win when it comes to side dishes for Friendsgiving.
- Cauliflower Gratin: If you are looking for an alternative to potato recipes, cauliflower is your best bet. This gratin recipe features cauliflower tossed in a cheesy cream sauce that is baked in the oven until crispy and browned. It is a make-ahead dish that is worthy of your Friendsgiving dinner.
- Easy Green Beans: Prefer not to make a green bean casserole? This easy green bean recipe packs all the same buttery, tender taste in just 15 minutes. That is exactly why this versatile dish is one of my favorite easy dishes to bring to Friendsgiving.
- Maple Cranberry Sauce: No one can say no to this festive sauce’s tart and luscious flavor. Naturally sweetened with maple syrup and orange juice, this Thanksgiving dinner classic is vegan and infused with toasty cinnamon. The best part, you ask? You can make it ahead. So, go ahead and make this simple cranberry recipe to add a pop of color to your holiday table.
- Green Bean Casserole without Mushroom Soup: The ultimate make-ahead friendly Thanksgiving dish, Green Bean Casserole, is the perfect Friendsgiving side dish that you can bring with you. The good news is that this from-scratch version uses no mushrooms and still has all the umami flavors we all love.
- Butternut Squash Salad: If you love roasted butternut squash, this recipe will be one of your new favorite foods for Friendsgiving. Made with toasted walnuts, warm apple cider vinaigrette, and vibrant arugula, this colorful salad is as healthy as it is delicious.
- Maple Baked Carrots: Few make-ahead-friendly dishes are as delectable as this oven-roasted veggie. Coated with a cinnamon brown sugar glaze, these perfectly tender carrots come together with just seven ingredients, making it one of the easiest food ideas for Friendsgiving.
- Carrot Ginger Soup: A great starter, this carrot soup is one of the easiest soups to make. Lightly flavored with ginger, this vegetarian recipe offers the perfect combination of savory, tangy, and sweet.
- Air Fryer Butternut Squash: Embrace the essence of fall flavors with air-fried butternut squash! With your oven in high demand, let the air fryer be your secret weapon. Easy to make, this side dish captures the heartwarming taste of roasted butternut squash in a fraction of the time compared to making it in the oven.
- Shredded Brussel Sprout Salad with Apples: Creamy goat cheese perfectly pairs with this easy side dish’s tart apple and fresh Brussels sprouts. This salad recipe even comes with a white wine vinaigrette for another layer of delicious flavor. If you can’t get enough of this autumn-ready dish, you’ll love my other potluck salads for fall.
- Air Fried Corn on the Cob: Tender, warm, and buttery, this air-fried corn recipe comes together in just fifteen minutes. You can even give your Friendsgiving feast extra-festive flavor by turning this simple dish into Air Fryer Street Corn (made with creamy elote sauce and fresh cilantro, of course!).
- Wild Rice Stuffing: Crisp apples, sweet cranberries, and toasted pecans are the key to giving this gluten-free stuffing recipe its signature taste. The exquisite balance of sweet, savory, and herby flavors makes this savory side dish one of my Friendsgiving must-haves.
- Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese: Who can say no to pasta tossed in a creamy squash and cheese sauce? A great meatless main dish or impressive side, this is a delicious mac and cheese recipe to add to your Friendsgiving menu if you are entertaining a crowd.
Easy Desserts
If you’re like me, you know there’s no better way to round off your menu for Friendsgiving than with a sweet treat. Whether you want a luscious fruit pie or a warm gingerbread cookie doesn’t matter. Sweet tooths and sugar lovers won’t be able to get enough of these easy recipes for Friendsgiving.
- Almond Flour Gingerbread Cookies: If you love the warm, cinnamon-ginger taste of gingerbread, you’ll adore these chewy, dairy-free, and paleo-friendly cookies. Don’t worry if you don’t have a food processor, either. Almond Flour Cookies make an excellent alternative to this festive recipe.
- Chocolate Almond Bark: Homemade dessert doesn’t get easier than this gluten-free treat. Nutty almonds, sweet maple syrup, and dried apricots come together for a dish that has “chocolate lovers” written all over it.
- Healthier Pumpkin Pie: Who can resist a classic—especially one with a secret healthy twist? This pumpkin pie recipe is creamy, light, and naturally sweet, and it has a hint of spice that will have you licking your lips.
- Apple Cake with Almond Flour: Perfectly moist and refined sugar-free, this scrumptious coffee cake is one of my most popular recipes with almond flour. It only takes 15 minutes to prepare. This Friendsgiving potluck idea only needs ten ingredients, including tart apples, warm cinnamon, and sweet vanilla.
- Maple Pecan Pie: Prepared with a homemade pie crust, this old-fashioned pecan pie adds new meaning to “Thanksgiving pie.” This delectable dish has a warm and nutty molasses filling, and it also comes with a bourbon whipped cream topping.
- Dutch Apple Pie: If you’re a fan of apple picking, you’ll obsess over this fall favorite. This apple pie is gooey, flaky, and rich, and its crumbly streusel topping takes this classic to the next level.
- Vegan Cranberry Tart: Need vegan dishes to bring to Friendsgiving? This fruity recipe comes with an almond-oat crust and an almond crumb topping that are to die for. Everyone will want a bite of this sweet and crumbly goodie.
- Mini Pecan Pies: Why not try something new and make these lightly sweetened mini pecan pies for a dessert that is guaranteed to please? Made in a muffin tin, this dessert recipe uses almond flour, coconut sugar, and maple syrup. It is a great alternative to the classic Thanksgiving pie as it can be served in individual portions.
- Greek Yogurt Cheesecake: If you are a fan of the tangy flavors of Greek yogurt, then this lightened-up cheesecake recipe is a must-try. Lightly sweetened with honey and raspberry sauce, this dessert is a showstopper that will disappear in no time.
FAQs
There’s no reason to stress when you’re planning meals for Friendsgiving. Whether you’re wondering how to make your holiday celebration a hit or how to make a Friendsgiving meal for a few besties, this user-friendly list will answer all your questions.
What do you serve at a Friendsgiving party?
Though there are no rules for what to serve at Friendsgiving, people usually serve smaller portions of traditional Thanksgiving food. Some fan favorites are turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and green bean casserole, though many also opt for more accessible versions, like roasted chicken or sauteed green beans.
What to bring to Friendsgiving if you can’t cook?
If you’re at a loss for what to cook for Friendsgiving, don’t worry! Anyone who isn’t comfortable cooking something for their holiday potluck can bring other offerings instead, like flowers, wine, or even a treat picked up from their local bakery.
How do I host a small Friendsgiving?
The key to hosting a small Friendsgiving is to keep it simple. Try serving turkey parts instead of a whole turkey for a hassle-free main dish, and keep your sides to a maximum of 2-3. You can also make dessert a cinch by whipping up (or even buying!) an easy pie.
How to make Friendsgiving fun?
When it comes to making your holiday get-together fun, the options are endless. Picking a theme, having everyone bring a dish, playing party games, and even serving festive drinks are just a few ways to liven up your Friendsgiving.
If you try any of these Friendsgiving Menu Ideas, please take a minute torate the recipeand leave a comment. It is a great help to others who are thinking of making the recipe. And if you took some pictures, be sure to share them onInstagramusing #foolproofeats so I can share them on my stories.
35+ Friendsgiving Food Ideas – Roasted Turkey Tenderloin and More!
By Aysegul Sanford
Yields: 4 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes mins
Cook Time: 15 minutes mins
Resting Time: 10 minutes mins
Total Time: 35 minutes mins
Intimidated by cooking a whole turkey? Try This Turkey Tenderloin Recipe that combines simple ingredients like ground spices and olive oil for juicy, flavorful tenderloins that are guaranteed to impress. Add this easy recipe to your Friendsgiving Menu and accept compliments from all your friends.
5 from 1 vote
Print Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 turkey tenderloins* – 4 oz or ~113 grams each
For the Tenderloin Rub:
- ¼ teaspoon rubbed sage or dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika or sweet paprika would also work
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ¼ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil divided
Instructions
Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 325 degrees F.
Make the rub: Mix together sage, thyme, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Set it aside.
Dry the tenderloins: Pat dry turkey tenderloins with paper towels on both sides.
Coat with oil: Drizzle them with a tablespoon of olive oil and coat them on both sides.
Add the rub: Sprinkle them with the prepared turkey tenderloin rub on both sides.
Heat the oil: Heat the remaining oil in a large stainless steel skillet (or a cast iron skillet) until shimmering hot.
Sear: Sear turkey tenderloins for 1 minute on each side until lightly browned.
Bake: Place the skillet in the oven and roast tenderloins until a meat thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the tenderloin registers 155 degrees for 15 minutes.
Rest: Take it out of the oven and cover it with aluminum foil and let it rest for 10 minutes. As it sits, it should come to 165 degrees (the safe temperature for turkey) without drying.
Serve: Slice and serve.
Notes
- While this recipe serves 4-6 people, you can easily multiply the recipe and make it for more people.
- Try our turkey tenderloin marinade: If you have the time to plan ahead, you can also marinade your turkey loins in our marinade.
- The temperature of the raw meat: I cooked my turkey tenders immediately after taking them out of the fridge. However, you could also let them reach room temperature before beginning the cooking process. Whichever method you choose, just be sure to dry the breast loin before cooking.
- Size of the turkey tenderloin matters: When baking turkey tenderloin, remember that the size of your fillet will impact its cooking time. Each of my turkey loins was around 4 ounces and took 15 minutes to reach the desired internal temperature, which is 165 degrees F. Depending on the size of your turkey tenderloins, it might take a bit shorter or longer. If you own a meat thermometer (this is the one I own and love), be sure to use it for accurate testing.
- Two-part cooking method: If you’ve ever cooked turkey tenderloins, you know that it can go from perfectly moist to not-so-appetizing dry in an instant. During our tests, we found that the secret to success starts with searing your meat in a stainless steel (or cast iron) skillet for one minute on each side before putting it in the oven. This extra step creates a gorgeous golden exterior while also locking in flavorful juices. However, make sure that your skillet is very hot before searing the loins, as the high temperature is key to properly seared turkey tenders.
- Storage instructions: Let your turkey cool completely. Then, transfer the meat to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating instructions: You have two options here: Firstly, you can place your turkey on a microwave-safe plate and microwave it on high for 30-60 seconds or until it is heated thoroughly. Secondly, you can reheat it in a 350-degree F. oven. Spray a baking dish with cooking spray, add your tenderloin, and cover it with tin foil. Then, bake the turkey for 10-15 minutes or until its center is warm.
- Freezing instructions: To freeze, let your meat cool completely. Then, transfer the tenderloin to a Ziplock bag and remove as much air as possible. Your turkey will stay fresh in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight, and follow the instructions above for reheating.
Nutrition
Calories: 156kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 1g | Monounsaturated Fat: 5g | Cholesterol: 38mg | Sodium: 348mg | Potassium: 14mg | Fiber: 0.2g | Sugar: 0.04g | Vitamin A: 129IU | Vitamin C: 0.1mg | Calcium: 5mg | Iron: 0.3mg
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Diet: Gluten Free
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35+ Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes
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About Aysegul Sanford
Hello Friend! I’m Aysegul but you can call me “Ice.” I’m the cook/recipe-tester/photographer behind this site.
If you’re looking for approachable yet creative recipes made with everyday ingredients, you’ve come to the right place. Here, we’re all about recipes that have been meticulously tested to provide you with a truly foolproof cooking experience regardless of your level of cooking.
Check out my about page to learn more about me.
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