Friendsgiving is a relaxed potluck dinner with friends, usually held before or after Thanksgiving. It is one of the fastest-growing food trends of the season, and the main question is always the same: what should I bring? The answer is a dish that travels well, can be made ahead and does not need the oven at the last minute. Here is a simple plan for hosts and guests.
A simple way to split the menu
- Host: the main dish (a roast turkey breast, ham or a big vegetarian main) and the drinks.
- Guest 1: a starch side, such as mashed potatoes, stuffing or rolls.
- Guest 2: a vegetable side or salad.
- Guest 3: an appetizer or dip to eat while everyone arrives.
- Guest 4: dessert, and someone else brings ice and drinks.
- Use a shared note or group chat so two people do not bring the same dish.
Dishes that travel well
- Appetizers: cranberry pecan cheese ball, spinach artichoke dip or baked brie.
- Sides: herb bread stuffing, sweet potato casserole or scalloped potatoes.
- Breads: buttermilk cornbread or soft dinner rolls.
- Desserts: pecan pie or pecan pie bars, which slice and carry easily.
- Vegetarian main: mushroom Wellington.
How to carry food safely
- Cold foods stay cold (below 4 C / 40 F) in a cooler with ice packs; hot foods stay hot (above 60 C / 140 F) wrapped in towels or an insulated bag.
- Do not leave food out for more than 2 hours.
- Bring serving spoons and a label with the dish name and main allergens (nuts, dairy, wheat, eggs).
Tips for the host
- Ask guests about allergies and diets in your invitation.
- Turn on the oven early: guests may need oven time to reheat dishes. Plan the oven schedule on paper, as in our 2-week Thanksgiving countdown.
- Have a few extra containers so guests can take leftovers home, and use them in recipes like our leftover turkey soup.
Easy Friendsgiving extras
- Set up a drinks table with a pitcher of sparkling cranberry mocktail and a pot of warm cider.
- Make place cards from kraft paper, or let guests write what they are thankful for on a leaf.
- Keep playlists and a few simple games ready, and let the cooking be the easy part.
Frequently asked questions
What should I bring to a Friendsgiving if I cannot cook?
Bring drinks, ice, rolls, a cheese board, a store-bought dessert or paper goods, and ask the host what is missing.
How many dishes do I need for 8 people?
Plan one main, three to four sides, one salad, one or two appetizers and two desserts.
Can I make everything ahead?
Most sides, dips and desserts can be made a day ahead. Bake rolls and reheat casseroles on the day.
Comments