“Turkey, schmurkey.” For many Americans, Thanksgiving isn’t about the bird at all — it’s about the sides. And a new national survey reinforces just how much the country loves its holiday extras.
Campbell’s has released its fourth-annual State of the Sides report, a nationwide review of Thanksgiving trends based on responses from 5,000 adults across all 50 states. The verdict? Side dishes continue to dominate the holiday table.
Americans Prefer Sides Over Turkey — Again
According to the survey:
- 63% of Americans say they prefer eating side dishes over turkey — up from 56% in 2024.
- Nearly half (47%) said they’d happily enjoy a Thanksgiving plate made entirely of sides.
- For home cooks, 81% say preparing side dishes is their way of showing love to family and guests.
Marci Raible, Vice President of Media Strategy & Digital Growth at Campbell’s, said holiday traditions remain strong:
“Generations have turned to Campbell’s to create their holiday side dishes over the years, and this year’s report shows those classics are still at the heart of every holiday celebration.”
This marks the fourth straight year that Americans have declared sides the best part of the Thanksgiving meal.
The Most Iconic Side Dishes
Thanksgiving offers a huge range of side options, but a few favorites stand above the rest.
1. Stuffing (Dressing) — America’s #1 Side
For the second year in a row, stuffing takes the top spot nationwide.
2. Mashed Potatoes
The ultimate comfort food continues to hold steady in second place.
3. Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes keep their third-place ranking from 2024, proving that classic dishes never go out of style.
4. Mac and Cheese
Climbing from fifth to fourth place, mac and cheese has become a holiday must-have — especially among younger generations.
- 41% of Gen Z choose mac and cheese as their favorite side.
- 62% of Millennials rank it near the top as well.
5. Green Bean Casserole
Despite celebrating its 70th anniversary, green bean casserole slips from fourth to fifth place nationwide.
Still, 44% of respondents say it is the most iconic Thanksgiving side dish, and more than half believe it tastes best when prepared the traditional way.
Regional Differences: Mac and Cheese Takes Over
While stuffing remains the national favorite, not every state agrees.
In New York and Florida, mac and cheese earns the No. 1 spot.
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