Thanksgiving is when most Americans abandon their diets, pull out their stretchy pants, and eat a little of everything that makes it to the dinner table—and then desserts. Turkey and mashed potatoes are certainly the staple dishes of the holiday, but everyone has their favorite recipes based on where they grew up, their family’s heritage, or where they live now. With a little help from Google Trends, we found some of the most popular Thanksgiving Day recipes in every state.
Most Popular Savory Thanksgiving Recipes by State
Roasted turkey emerged as the most searched Thanksgiving recipe overall, holding the top spot in nine states. Even the most experienced cooks still want new ways to perfect their turkey, and while some have started to fry it, most people roast it in the oven.
Stuffing and salad tied for second place, each claiming the top spot in six states. Interestingly, salads garnered more interest in Northeastern states like New York, Vermont, and Maryland. The traditionally-Southern stuffing is still supreme in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and South Carolina, where cooks may want to experiment with local ingredients.
As you’ll probably notice in the chart, each region of the country has its own theme. The Midwest is known for hearty, comforting side dishes like green bean casserole and corn casserole, perfect for complementing the turkey.
This table shows the full list of results:
Most Popular Sweet Thanksgiving Recipes by State
Interestingly, brownies are tied with pumpkin pie as the most popular Thanksgiving dessert, with each claiming 15 states. Pumpkin pie is more favored in the Rocky Mountains and West Coast, but brownies start taking over in the Midwest, Rust Belt, and Mid-Atlantic states. Perhaps families are making both dishes together and having a dessert platter for Thanksgiving.
Just like our research on savory foods, your favorite recipes can vary depending on where you live in the country. Since fewer desserts are represented in the trends compared to savory dishes, it's also easier to see regional and cultural differences between the states.
Pecan pie emerged as the clear favorite in the South, claiming the top spot in Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi, Tennessee, and Texas. This rich, nutty dessert is deeply rooted in Southern culinary tradition, and these days, bakers enjoy adding extra flavors like chocolate chips or bourbon. Go further east toward the Atlantic coast, and sweet potato pie reigns supreme.
Other desserts are even more regional. Apple fritters are popular in the Upper South states of Kentucky and Oklahoma, while decadent pumpkin cheesecakes garnered interest in Florida, Idaho, and Nevada.
This table shows the full list of results:
Thanksgiving Dinner Ideas and Tips
Hosting Thanksgiving dinner can seem daunting, but with proper planning and preparation, you can make a rewarding experience for your friends and family.
- Plan ahead and delegate: Start planning your menu and guest list well in advance, and don't be afraid to delegate tasks. Involving guests in your preparation process can build enthusiasm and create a shared sense of pride and joy.
- Have a potluck: It's a common Thanksgiving tradition for different family members to make the one dish they're known for, usually side dishes, hors d' oeuvres, or desserts.
- Keep diets in mind: With the increasing prevalence of food allergies and dietary preferences, you should consider your guests' needs when planning your Thanksgiving menu. Consider including vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options so everyone can enjoy the meal.
- Prepare what you can in advance: You can make many Thanksgiving dishes partially or completely ahead of time. You can spend more time with your guests by doing a little prep work on the days leading up to Thanksgiving.
- Flip off the TV: The parades and football games on Thanksgiving add to the day's fun but try not to have them on while you eat. Use dinnertime to reconnect, reminisce, and share gratitude with your family and guests.
