25 Friendsgiving Food Ideas Your Guests Will Totally Love

1. Roasted Cauliflower with Honey and Halloumi

Roasted Cauliflower with Honey & Halloumi is a delectable and unique dish that will surely be a hit at your Friendsgiving gathering. To prepare this savory delight, start by breaking a head of cauliflower into florets and tossing them in olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast the cauliflower in the oven until it turns golden brown and tender. 

While roasting, grill slices of halloumi cheese until they become slightly crispy on the edges. Once the cauliflower is ready, drizzle it with honey for a touch of sweetness. The combination of tender cauliflower, the rich and salty halloumi, and the sweet honey glaze will leave your guests raving about this delightful Friendsgiving treat.

2. Pumpkin Hummus

Pumpkin Hummus is a flavorful twist on classic hummus, perfect for Friendsgiving. Roast pumpkin with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.

Blend it with cooked chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, cumin, and paprika until smooth. Serve with olive oil, paprika, and toasted pumpkin seeds for a delicious and festive appetizer that will impress your guests with its autumnal charm.

3. Crispy Smashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are a part of the traditional Friendsgiving food ideas, but here you can prepare them with a twist.

Start by boiling small potatoes until they are tender. Carefully smash each potato with the bottom of a glass or a fork to flatten them slightly. Drizzle the potatoes with olive oil and sprinkle them with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs or spices. Roast the potatoes in the oven until they turn crispy and golden brown. The result is a delightful combination of creamy interiors and crunchy exteriors, making these Crispy Smashed Potatoes a crowd-pleasing addition to your Friendsgiving table.

4. Garlic Mac and Cheese

Garlic Mac and Cheese is a comforting and indulgent dish that will be a hit with friends and family at your Friendsgiving gathering. Start by boiling elbow macaroni until al dente and prepare a creamy cheese sauce with butter, flour, milk, and a generous amount of shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyere.

Add minced garlic to the cheese sauce for an extra layer of flavor. Combine the cooked macaroni with the cheese sauce, ensuring that every noodle is coated with the creamy goodness. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top it with more cheese and breadcrumbs, and bake until the top turns golden and bubbly. 

5. Crispy Brussels Sprouts

If you need healthy recipes for Thanksgiving, write this one down.

The dish starts with fresh Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved, then tossed with a drizzle of olive oil, a sprinkle of salt, and a dash of black pepper. 

When roasted in the oven until golden and crispy, the Brussels sprouts develop a delightful caramelized flavor that complements their natural nuttiness. For an elevated touch, consider adding a balsamic glaze drizzle or a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.

6. Pecan Pie Yoghurt Bowl

The Pecan Pie Yogurt Bowl is a delightful fusion of indulgence and health, perfect for rounding off your Friendsgiving feast on a lighter note. Start by layering creamy Greek yogurt in a bowl, creating a luscious base for this dessert-like treat. Next, generously sprinkle chopped pecans, offering a delightful crunch and toasty flavor. 

A pinch of fragrant cinnamon enhances the warm and comforting essence of this delightful bowl. If you wish to experiment further, add a touch of vanilla extract for a hint of sweetness or a pinch of nutmeg for added warmth. This Pecan Pie Yogurt Bowl is an irresistible alternative to a traditional pie, which is a more refreshing and lighter dessert option.

7. Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes

Your friends will need something sweet to indulge on Friendsgiving, so why not prepare the best cupcakes?

Vanilla Chai Pumpkin Latte Cupcakes are a festive and flavorful dessert to serve at your Friendsgiving celebration. Start by combining pumpkin puree, vanilla chai tea, and espresso powder in a bowl. In a separate bowl, mix together flour, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. In another bowl, cream together butter and sugar, then beat in eggs and vanilla extract. 

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, alternating with milk, until the batter is smooth. Fill cupcake liners with the batter and bake in the oven until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Once the cupcakes have cooled, frost them with a vanilla chai cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with cinnamon.

8. Halloween Pizza

Halloween Pizza is a fun and creative dish that you can serve at your Friendsgiving gathering. Start by preparing pizza dough and shaping it into a round or rectangular shape. Spread tomato sauce on the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.

Next, add your favorite toppings to create spooky designs. Use black olives to make spider shapes, bell peppers to make pumpkin faces, or mozzarella cheese to make ghost shapes. Bake the pizza in the oven until the crust is golden and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Roasted Mushrooms in a Browned Butter, Garlic and Thyme Sauce

Roasted Mushrooms in a Browned Butter, Garlic and Thyme Sauce is a savory and aromatic side dish that will complement any Friendsgiving feast. Start by cleaning and trimming a variety of mushrooms, such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster mushrooms. In a skillet, melt butter until it turns golden brown and develops a nutty aroma.

Add minced garlic and fresh thyme to the skillet, sautéing until fragrant. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until they are tender and golden brown

10. Roasted Vegetables with Garlic and Herbs

Roasted vegetables have become classic Friendsgiving food ideas, so they can’t be missing at your table.

Start by chopping a variety of vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, zucchini, and red onions. Toss the vegetables with olive oil, minced garlic, and a mixture of herbs, such as rosemary, thyme, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper.

Spread the vegetables in a single layer on a baking sheet and roast in the oven until they are tender and slightly caramelized. The result is a medley of delicious flavors and textures that will satisfy both veggie lovers and meat enthusiasts alike.

11. Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta Skillet

Parmesan Spinach Mushroom Pasta is a flavorful and satisfying dish that will impress your friends and family at your Friendsgiving gathering. Start by cooking your favorite pasta according to package instructions until al dente. In a separate skillet, sauté sliced mushrooms in olive oil until they are golden brown and tender. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Next, add fresh spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and any additional herbs or spices you prefer. Drain the cooked pasta and add it to the skillet with the mushrooms and spinach. Toss everything together, then sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.

12. Corn Tomato Avocado Salad

A salad is always a great starter to include when it comes to Friendsgiving food.

Start by cooking your favorite pasta until al dente. In a skillet, sauté corn kernels until they are slightly charred.

Next, add diced tomatoes and chopped avocado to the skillet, tossing them with the corn. Season with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice for a tangy kick. Add the cooked pasta to the skillet and toss everything together, allowing the flavors to meld. Serve the Corn Tomato Avocado Salad Pasta Skillet warm, garnished with fresh cilantro for a burst of freshness.

13. Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Caprese Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms are a delicious and elegant appetizer that will impress your friends at your Friendsgiving celebration. Start by preheating the oven and cleaning the portobello mushrooms.

Remove the stems and scrape out the gills to create a hollow space. Next, stuff each mushroom with a mixture of diced tomatoes, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for added flavor. Bake the stuffed mushrooms in the oven until the cheese is melted and the mushrooms are tender.

14. Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin

Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin is a comforting dish that will be a showstopper at your Friendsgiving dinner. Start by thinly slicing a variety of root vegetables, such as potatoes, sweet potatoes, and parsnips. In a saucepan, melt butter and whisk in flour to create a roux. Gradually add milk and continue whisking until the sauce thickens.

Season with salt, pepper, and your choice of herbs, such as thyme or rosemary. Layer the sliced vegetables in a baking dish, pouring the sauce over each layer. Top with shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Gruyere. Bake in the oven until the vegetables are tender and the cheese is golden and bubbly.

15. Butternut Squash Casserole

Nothing says more «Fall» than a butternut squash casserole, so it should be a part of your Friendsgiving food.

Start by peeling and cubing a butternut squash, then cook it until tender. In a separate bowl, mix together cooked quinoa, sautéed onions, garlic, and spinach. Add the cooked butternut squash and mix well.

In another bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, and spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt. Pour the egg mixture over the butternut squash mixture and stir until everything is well combined. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and top with shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the casserole is set and the cheese is melted and bubbly.

16. Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Wild Rice Pilaf

Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Wild Rice Pilaf is a delicious and festive side dish that will add a pop of color and flavor to your Friendsgiving table. Start by cooking wild rice according to package instructions. In a separate skillet, sauté diced sweet potatoes until they are tender.

Next, add cooked wild rice to the skillet and toss everything together. Stir in dried cranberries and chopped pecans for a sweet and crunchy element. Season with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness. Serve the Cranberry Pecan Sweet Potato Wild Rice Pilaf warm, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

17. Sweet Potato Casserole With Marshmallows

A sweet potato casserole with marshmallows is one of the easiest Friendsgiving desserts to make! It combines smooth and creamy mashed sweet potatoes with butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of vanilla.

Topped with a generous layer of mini marshmallows, this casserole turns gooey and golden as it bakes in the oven. The result is a heavenly and comforting treat that adds a delightful sweetness to your Friendsgiving feast.

18. Thanksgiving Turkey Cheese Board

This is a creative and festive appetizer that will wow your guests at your Friendsgiving get-together. Start by arranging a variety of cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, and gouda, in the shape of a turkey body on a large serving platter.

Next, use salami slices to create the feathers of the turkey, fanning them out behind the cheese body. Add cherry tomatoes for the eyes and a carrot slice for the beak. Garnish the platter with an assortment of crackers, grapes, and nuts for added texture and flavor.

19. Baked Brie Cranberry in Bread Bowl

If you’re looking to get a bit more creative, a baked Brie Cranberry in Bread is a mouthwatering appetizer that combines the creaminess of brie cheese with the sweetness of cranberry sauce, all baked inside a loaf of bread.

Start by cutting off the top of a round loaf of bread and hollowing out the center, leaving a thick bread shell.Next, place a wheel of brie cheese inside the bread, then top it with a generous amount of cranberry sauce. Replace the top of the bread and wrap the entire loaf in aluminum foil. Bake in the oven until the cheese is melted and gooey.

20. Green Bean Casserole

The Green Bean Casserole Bowl is a beloved Thanksgiving classic that makes a fantastic addition to your Friendsgiving table. Tender green beans are combined with creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions. Baked to perfection, this casserole bowl offers a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will have your guests coming back for more.

21. Creamy Scalloped Potatoes

When it comes to Friendsgiving food ideas, you can’t go wrong with scalloped potatoes.

Thinly sliced potatoes are layered with a rich and velvety cheese sauce, creating a luscious and satisfying dish. Baked until golden and bubbling, these scalloped potatoes are a decadent treat that pairs perfectly with any main course.

22. Maple Pecan Melting Sweet Potatoes

Anything that includes sweet potatoes is a great addition to your Friendsgiving menu!

Maple Pecan Melting Sweet Potatoes are a delightful and flavorful twist on classic sweet potato dishes. Sliced sweet potatoes are coated in a maple syrup glaze and topped with a crunchy pecan streusel. Baked until tender and caramelized, these melting sweet potatoes offer a harmonious blend of sweetness and nuttiness that will leave your guests in awe.

23. Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash With Parmesan Breadcrumbs

Honey-Glazed Hasselback Butternut Squash with Parmesan Breadcrumbs is a stunning and savory dish that will be a showstopper at your Friendsgiving celebration.

The butternut squash is sliced in a hasselback style, creating beautiful and tender layers. It is then glazed with honey and topped with crispy breadcrumbs and parmesan cheese, resulting in a mouthwatering combination of sweet and savory flavors.

24. Perfect Mashed Potatoes

Smashed potatoes are one of the traditional Friendsgiving food ideas that need to be in your table.

Creamy, buttery, and seasoned to perfection, these mashed potatoes are a comforting and classic addition to your table. They pair wonderfully with gravies and sauces, making them an essential and delicious component of your holiday meal.

25. Cookie Butter Cheesecake Brownies

Cookie Butter Cheesecake Brownies are perfect to end your Friendsgiving on a sweet note. These brownies combine the rich and fudgy goodness of brownies with a creamy and dreamy cookie butter cheesecake swirl.

With each bite, your guests will experience a delightful fusion of chocolate and spiced cookie flavors, making these brownies an unforgettable dessert that will leave a lasting impression.