Are you ready to celebrate a Friendsgiving gathering this November – but don’t know the best ways to plan your Friendsgiving menu? If so, don’t worry! You’ve come to the right place. Keep reading for the best Friendsgiving food ideas to make your closest friends beg for a second helping of all the great food you’re serving this year.
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Friendsgiving is the perfect way to celebrate the season with your chosen family – your friends!
Imagine gathering around a cozy table, sharing laughs, swapping stories, and indulging in a delicious, stress-free meal.
Unlike a traditional Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving is all about keeping it casual, fun, and, most importantly, easy.
No need for complicated recipes or all-day prep – just good food and even better company.
Wondering how to make your Friendsgiving feast unforgettable without spending hours in the kitchen?
You’re in the right place!
From the turkey breast to delicious sides that practically make themselves, we’ve got you covered with easy, crowd-pleasing food ideas that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
So grab a pen and paper, pull up a chair, and let’s jump into creating Friendsgiving food ideas your friends will rave about long after the plates are cleared.
Want some more fun fall home decor ideas? Grab your free printable fall wall art below and start decorating today!
1. Serve Delicious Friendsgiving Drinks
Starting your Friendsgiving celebration with a well-thought-out drink menu sets the tone for a festive and enjoyable gathering.
Offering a variety of beverages, like paired alcoholic options to refreshing holiday mocktails, this ensures that there’s something for everyone.
Begin with a signature cocktail or mocktail that reflects the Friendsgiving dinner, such as a spiced cider or a festive cranberry drink, to add a touch of elegance and excitement to your Friendsgiving party ideas.
For non-drinkers or those who prefer something lighter, prepare a selection of mocktails like a sparkling apple punch or a citrus-infused lemonade.
These drinks not only serve as a perfect icebreaker but also add a delightful start to the evening, setting the stage for a memorable and enjoyable Friendsgiving meets Thanksgiving celebration.
Here are some festive alcoholic cocktails to add a little buzz to your Friendsgiving celebration:
Spiced Orange Punch with Rum
Combine orange juice, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and maple syrup in a large pitcher. Add a splash of dark rum and sparkling water for a refreshing twist.
Cranberry Mule
Mix vodka, cranberry sauce, and ginger beer with a splash of lime juice. Garnish with fresh cranberries and lime slices.
Apple Cider Sangria
Combine apple cider, white wine, brandy, chopped apples, oranges, and cranberries. Let the mixture chill for a few hours before serving.
Pomegranate Champagne
Mix pomegranate juice with champagne for a bubbly treat. Garnish with pomegranate seeds for an extra pop of color.
Pumpkin Spice White Russian
Mix vodka, coffee liqueur, pumpkin puree, and a splash of coconut milk. Serve over ice with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Spiked Chai Tea
Brew strong chai tea, mix in dark rum, almond milk, and maple syrup, and serve warm or cold.
Cider Bourbon Cocktail
Shake bourbon, apple cider, a dash of lemon juice, and a pinch of cinnamon together. Serve with ice and a cinnamon stick for garnish.
Mulled Wine
Heat red wine with orange slices, cloves, cinnamon, and brown sugar for a cozy, aromatic drink.
Pear and Ginger Cocktail
Shake pear vodka with ginger liqueur and fresh lime juice. Top with sparkling water for a refreshing sip.
Cranberry Margarita
Blend tequila, triple sec, cranberry sauce, lime juice, and ice for a tart twist on the classic margarita.
Don’t forget to serve tons of delicious non-alcoholic drinks that will keep all of your friends happy and hydrated during your Friendsgiving celebration.
Here are a few mocktail ideas:
Spiced Orange Mocktail
Mix orange juice, lemon juice, cinnamon sticks, and cloves in a pitcher. Add sparkling water or ginger ale for fizz.
Cranberry Fizz
Blend cranberry sauce, lime juice, and a bit of honey with sparkling water for a refreshing sip.
Apple Cider Sparkler
Mix apple cider with ginger ale and add slices of apples and oranges for garnish. Top with cinnamon sticks for flavor.
Pomegranate Mocktail
Combine pomegranate juice with club soda and garnish with fresh pomegranate seeds and mint leaves.
Pumpkin Spice Latte
Brew strong coffee or espresso and stir in pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Top with whipped cream for a festive touch.
Coconut Chai Latte
Brew chai tea and mix it with coconut milk and a drizzle of maple syrup. Serve warm or chilled over ice.
Mulled Apple Cider
Heat apple cider with cinnamon sticks, star anise, and orange slices. Serve warm with a cinnamon stick.
Lemon Ginger Spritzer
Combine freshly squeezed lemon juice, ginger ale, and club soda. Add a few slices of fresh ginger for an extra kick.
Sparkling Pear Juice
Mix pear juice with club soda and garnish with pear slices and rosemary sprigs for a light and fruity option.
Berry Lemonade Punch
Mix lemonade with club soda, add frozen berries for color and flavor, and garnish with fresh mint.
With these drink options, your friends p will enjoy a variety of flavorful beverages, whether they prefer a cocktail or a refreshing mocktail.
2. Friendsgiving Charcuterie Board Food Ideas
A well-assembled charcuterie board is a fantastic starter for your Friendsgiving celebration.
It allows guests to mingle and snack while you finalize the main course.
Here are a few tasty ideas for your charcuterie boards:
Traditional Meat and Cheese Charcuterie Board
This classic option offers a well-rounded selection of cured meats, cheeses, and savory accompaniments.
- Meats: Prosciutto, salami, chorizo, and pepperoni
- Cheeses: Aged cheddar, brie, gouda, and blue cheese
- Accompaniments: Sliced baguette, crackers, grainy mustard, and fig jam
- Extras: Olives, cornichons, and fresh fruit like grapes or apple slices
Mediterranean-Inspired Charcuterie Board - For a lighter, fresher take on the charcuterie board, try Mediterranean ingredients that pair well together.
- Meats: Thinly sliced prosciutto, mortadella, and soppressata
- Cheeses: Feta, fresh mozzarella, and manchego
- Accompaniments: Hummus, roasted red peppers, stuffed grape leaves, and pita bread
- Extras: Kalamata olives, marinated artichokes, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes
Sweet and Savory Charcuterie Board
Balance sweet and savory elements to create a more playful board that offers something for every palate.
- Meats: Smoked ham, prosciutto, and sweet soppressata
- Cheeses: Havarti, blue cheese, and goat cheese
- Accompaniments: Dried apricots, figs, and sliced pear or apple
- Extras: Dark chocolate, honeycomb, and candied nuts
Vegan Charcuterie Board - This plant-based charcuterie board offers a mix of fresh veggies, spreads, and protein-rich options.
- Vegan Cheeses: Almond ricotta, cashew brie, and plant-based cheddar
- Proteins: Marinated tofu, falafel, and hummus
- Accompaniments: Pickled vegetables, fresh veggies like cucumber and carrots, and multigrain crackers
- Extras: Sun-dried tomatoes, olives, grapes, and fresh berries
Breakfast Charcuterie Board - Perfect for brunch or a morning get-together, this board is full of breakfast treats.
- Meats: Bacon, smoked salmon, and breakfast sausage
- Cheeses: Cream cheese, cheddar, and mascarpone
- Accompaniments: Mini bagels, croissants, and English muffins
- Extras: Hard-boiled eggs, fresh berries, and jams like strawberry or apricot
These unique boards will add variety to your meal and keep your friends intrigued throughout the dinner.
3. Friendsgiving Appetizers
Start your Friendsgiving celebration with a selection of appetizers that are sure to impress your guest list.
These delicious Friendsgiving food ideas are not only tasty but also offer a great way to get everyone in the festive spirit.
Whether you’re aiming for simple recipes or want to take things to the next level, these appetizers will add a touch of charm to your Friendsgiving table.
Cheesy Pull-Apart Bread
A crowd favorite, this cheesy pull-apart bread is a perfect easy appetizer. Made by baking a loaf of bread with layers of parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, it’s best served warm and pulls apart easily for sharing. It’s a great way to kick off your Friendsgiving party.
Stuffed Mushrooms
These bite-sized delights are filled with a mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs, and then baked until golden. They’re an excellent choice for close friends gathering and are best enjoyed at room temperature. A good idea for adding a little bit of sophistication to your appetizers.
Crispy Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roasted until crispy and tossed with a tangy balsamic glaze, these brussels sprouts are a tasty and healthier option. They offer a crunchy, savory bite that pairs perfectly with a variety of other appetizers and will have your guests talking about the great things on your Friendsgiving table.
Fruit and Cheese Platter
For a touch of elegance, create a fruit and cheese platter with an assortment of cheeses like cheddar, gouda, and brie, paired with fresh fruits such as grapes, apple slices, and berries. It’s a perfect opportunity to showcase a simple yet next-level appetizer that complements various Friendsgiving themes.
Spinach and Artichoke Dip
Serve this creamy dip with a side of fresh veggies or toasted bread. Made with cream cheese, spinach, and artichokes, it’s a delicious Friendsgiving food idea that adds a touch of comfort to your appetizer spread. It’s a good idea for those who enjoy a little bit of indulgence.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Quesadillas
These quesadillas are filled with a mixture of sweet potatoes, black beans, and parmesan cheese. They’re a delightful new recipe that offers a satisfying blend of sweet and savory flavors. Serve with salsa and sour cream for dipping. They’re a great way to get everyone excited about Friendsgiving or even Thanksgiving Day.
Mini Caprese Skewers
Assemble these skewers with cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves, drizzled with balsamic glaze. This simple yet elegant cheese recipe provides a burst of flavor and is a fun way to enjoy fresh veggies. It’s a good idea to add a touch of sophistication to your Friendsgiving celebration.
Buffalo Chicken Meatballs
These spicy, tangy meatballs are a hit at any gathering. Made with ground chicken and coated in buffalo sauce, they’re a great easy appetizer that pairs perfectly with a cooling ranch dip. They’ll definitely add some good times to your party and keep the energy up.
Stuffed Jalapeños
Filled with a creamy blend of cream cheese and spices, these stuffed jalapeños are baked until bubbly and golden. They offer a spicy kick and are a fun, interactive way to enjoy appetizers. A great way to get everyone engaged and excited about the meal to come.
Pigs in a Blanket
A classic favorite, these mini sausages wrapped in dough are a bonus point for any party. They’re an easy appetizer that everyone loves and can be served with a variety of dips. They’re sure to be a hit and add a little bit of nostalgia to your Friendsgiving table.
These appetizers are sure to elevate your Friendsgiving celebration with their variety and flavor.
Whether you’re looking for simple recipes or want to try something next level, these ideas will ensure your Friendsgiving table is full of delicious and memorable options.
4. Friendsgiving Soups to Serve
Soup is the perfect idea for a cozy Friendsgiving meal.
These hearty options are easy to make ahead of time and are sure to impress your guests.
Butternut Squash Soup
Roast butternut squash and blend it with chicken broth, coconut milk, and spices for a creamy and comforting soup.
Creamy Potato Leek Soup
Sauté leeks and garlic in olive oil, then simmer with potatoes and chicken broth. Puree the mixture and stir in cream cheese for richness.
Sweet Potato Soup
Roast sweet potatoes and blend them with coconut milk, ginger, and a touch of maple syrup. Serve warm and garnish with toasted pumpkin seeds.
French Onion Soup
Slowly caramelize onions, then simmer them in chicken broth with a splash of white wine. Top with crusty bread and melted parmesan cheese.
Garlic and Tomato Soup with Tortellini
Serve up garlic and tomato soup with tortellini for a classic dish with simplicity and comforting flavors perfect for your Friendsgiving dinner.
Pumpkin Soup
Combine pumpkin puree, chicken broth, and warm spices like nutmeg and cinnamon. Add a touch of cream cheese for creaminess.
Turkey and Wild Rice Soup
Use leftover roast turkey and simmer it with wild rice, carrots, celery, and chicken broth for a comforting and filling soup.
Corn Chowder
Sauté onions and bell peppers, then simmer with sweet corn, potatoes, and chicken broth. Stir in cream for a rich finish.
Mushroom Barley Soup
Sauté mushrooms and onions, then simmer with barley and chicken broth for a hearty, savory soup.
Lentil Soup
Cook lentils with garlic, onions, tomatoes, and spices. Simmer in chicken broth until tender and flavorful.
Warm up your Friendsgiving gathering with hearty soups for a cozy and comforting start to the meal.
5. Delicious Friendsgiving Salads
Lighten up your Friendsgiving meal with fresh and crisp salads.
These recipes add a burst of flavor and color to your Friendsgiving holiday table.
Kale and Cranberry Salad
Toss chopped kale with dried cranberries, walnuts, and a tangy lemon dressing made with olive oil and lemon juice.
Apple and Pecan Salad
Mix greens with sliced apples, toasted pecans, and a dressing of orange juice and Dijon mustard. Top with crumbled goat cheese.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts Salad
Roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil until crispy, then toss them with arugula, cranberries, and a balsamic vinaigrette.
Sweet Potato and Quinoa Salad
Roast diced sweet potatoes and combine them with cooked quinoa, arugula, and a lemon-tahini dressing.
Spinach and Bacon Salad
Mix fresh spinach with crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and a warm bacon vinaigrette.
Pomegranate and Feta Salad
Toss mixed greens with pomegranate seeds, crumbled feta, and a balsamic glaze.
Roasted Beet Salad
Roast beets with olive oil and slice them thin. Serve over arugula with goat cheese and toasted almonds.
Cranberry and Pecan Salad
Combine mixed greens with dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a maple vinaigrette made with maple syrup and Dijon mustard.
Arugula and Pear Salad
Toss arugula with sliced pears, blue cheese, and candied walnuts. Drizzle with a simple vinaigrette of olive oil and lemon juice.
Caesar Salad with Parmesan
Crisp romaine lettuce, parmesan cheese, and croutons tossed in a creamy Caesar dressing made from scratch.
Adding a fresh touch to your Friendsgiving spread with seasonal salads is a delicious idea.
6. Main Course for Friendsgiving Dinner
The main event of your Friendsgiving dinner is, of course, the main course.
Whether you stick to traditional Thanksgiving dishes like roast turkey or branch out to new ideas, these delicious recipes will ensure your friends are satisfied.
Whole Roast Turkey with Herb Butter
The centerpiece of any Thanksgiving dinner, a whole turkey is seasoned with garlic, herbs, and olive oil, and then roasted to perfection. Baste it regularly with herb butter to achieve a golden brown skin and tender meat.
Turkey Tenderloin with Cranberry Glaze
For a smaller crowd, try roasting turkey tenderloin instead of a whole bird. Coat the tenderloins with a glaze made from cranberry sauce, Dijon mustard, and a touch of brown sugar.
Air Fryer Turkey Legs
A fun and easy way to serve turkey, these air fryer turkey legs are seasoned with garlic, paprika, and herbs, and then cooked until crispy and golden. It’s a great option for a Friendsgiving where you don’t need too much turkey.
Maple-Glazed Roast Chicken
Not into turkey? Roast a whole chicken instead and brush it with a sweet and savory maple syrup glaze. The crispy skin and tender meat make this dish a crowd favorite.
Turkey Meatballs in Gravy
Serve a twist on the traditional Thanksgiving feast with these savory turkey meatballs. Made with bread crumbs, garlic, and herbs, they’re served in a rich turkey gravy for a comforting Friendsgiving meal.
Stuffed Turkey Breast
Butterfly a turkey breast and stuff it with a mixture of spinach, cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. Roll it up, roast it, and slice it into beautiful rounds for an elegant main dish.
Herb-Crusted Pork Tenderloin
For a flavorful alternative to turkey, coat a pork tenderloin with garlic, rosemary, and olive oil, then roast it until tender. Serve with a side of cranberry sauce for a seasonal touch.
Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
Hollow out acorn squash and fill them with a mixture of quinoa, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. It’s a hearty, colorful main course perfect for vegetarians.
Slow Cooker Roast Turkey Breast
Save time and space in your oven by cooking a roast turkey breast in the slow cooker. Season it with garlic and herbs, and let it cook low and slow until perfectly juicy.
Lemon Herb Salmon
If you want to break away from traditional Thanksgiving dishes, try this fresh and flavorful salmon recipe. It’s roasted with olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs for a light yet satisfying main dish.
For the main course, serving hearty dishes will satisfy your guest’s appetite at the annual Friendsgiving feast.
7. Yummy Friendsgiving Side Dishes
Side dishes are often just as important as the main course at a Friendsgiving celebration.
These Friendsgiving recipes include both Thanksgiving classics and fun new ideas to make your meal memorable.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallows
A classic dish for the holiday table, this sweet potato casserole combines mashed sweet potatoes, brown sugar, and a hint of maple syrup, then topped with gooey marshmallows.
Green Bean Casserole
You can’t have Friendsgiving without the famous green bean casserole. Fresh green beans are combined with a creamy mushroom sauce and topped with crispy fried onions.
Funeral Potatoes
This cheesy, comforting dish is made with shredded hash browns, cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and a crispy cornflake topping. It’s sure to be a hit at your Friendsgiving.
Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Roast Brussels sprouts with olive oil until crispy, then drizzle them with a balsamic glaze. Add some toasted pecans for extra crunch.
Mashed Potatoes with Garlic Butter
Creamy mashed potatoes are always a hit. Mash boiled potatoes with butter, garlic, and a splash of chicken broth for extra flavor.
Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes
Layer thinly sliced potatoes with a creamy cheese sauce and bake until bubbly. Top with extra parmesan cheese for a crispy finish.
Maple-Glazed Carrots
Roast baby carrots with a glaze of maple syrup, butter, and a pinch of cinnamon for a sweet side dish that complements any main course.
Stuffing with Sausage and Apples
Combine cubed bread with cooked sausage, diced apples, and herbs. Bake until the top is crispy and golden. It’s a Friendsgiving classic.
Creamed Spinach
Sauté spinach with garlic and stir in cream cheese and a splash of cream. Top with parmesan cheese and bake until bubbly.
Cornbread with Honey Butter
Bake a simple cornbread and serve it warm with honey butter. The sweet and savory combination makes this a crowd favorite.
By complementing your main course with flavorful sides you’ll be sure to round out your Friendsgiving meal deliciously.
8. Sweet Friendsgiving Dessert Ideas
End your Friendsgiving celebration on a sweet note with these delicious recipes.
From Thanksgiving classics like pumpkin pie to more creative options, these desserts will be the best part of the meal.
Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream
No Friendsgiving is complete without pumpkin pie. This classic features a creamy pumpkin filling with warm spices, all baked in a buttery crust. Top with freshly whipped cream for a perfect finish.
Pecan Pie
A Southern staple, pecan pie combines crunchy pecans with a rich, gooey filling made from brown sugar and butter. Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Apple Pie
Another Thanksgiving classic, apple pie features layers of sweet, cinnamon-spiced apples encased in a flaky, buttery crust.
Chocolate Cream Pie
This no-bake dessert is made with a chocolate cookie crust, and a creamy chocolate filling, and topped with whipped cream.
Sweet Potato Pie
Similar to pumpkin pie but with the added sweetness of sweet potatoes and a hint of maple syrup. The flavor is rich and comforting.
Cranberry Cheesecake Bars
These festive bars feature a graham cracker crust, creamy cheesecake filling, and a tart cranberry sauce swirl on top.
Ginger Pumpkin Pie with a Cookie Crust
This ginger pumpkin pie with a cookie crust combines creamy pumpkin puree with cinnamon, nutmeg, and fresh ginger for a delicious Friendsgiving dessert.
Pumpkin Cheesecake
This decadent dessert combines a creamy cheesecake filling with pumpkin puree and warm spices. Serve with a drizzle of caramel sauce for extra indulgence.
Cranberry Orange Cake
A light and moist cake made with fresh cranberries and orange juice. It’s a bright and zesty end to your Friendsgiving meal.
White Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Cookies
These cookies are a sweet, decadent twist on everyone’s favorite fall flavor. They’re the perfect dessert serving a Friendsgiving crowd.
These classic fall treats will bring warmth and comfort to the table, creating the perfect finale for your Friendsgiving celebration.
Final thoughts
As you prepare for your Friendsgiving celebration, remember that the key to a memorable event lies in a mix of thoughtful planning and delicious easy recipes.
Whether you’re going for traditional comfort food or exploring new recipes to delight your friends, there are plenty of Friendsgiving food ideas to make your gathering truly special.
From main dishes like roast turkey and sweet potato casserole to delightful appetizers and favorite cookies for dessert, the possibilities are endless.
Incorporating Friendsgiving party ideas that resonate with your personal style will ensure that your celebration is both unique and enjoyable.
Don’t forget to prepare those perfect treats and add bonus points to your Friendsgiving menu with creative and thoughtful touches.
In recent years, the emphasis on sharing and creating meaningful connections while spending time together has made Friendsgiving ideas more popular than ever.
Whether you’re sticking to traditional Thanksgiving dishes or experimenting with new recipes, following the best tips for planning and creating will help you host an unforgettable event.
With these Friendsgiving party ideas, you’ll be well on your way to creating a festive and heartwarming gathering that celebrates friendship and gratitude.
Enjoy the process, savor the moments, and make this year’s Thanksgiving celebration the best one yet!
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Your turn
Are you excited to start planning your party menu? Which of these Friendsgiving food ideas are you adding to your meal? Let me know in the comments.
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I’ve never hosted a Friendsgiving event before but I’d love to start this as a new tradition. Your Friendsgiving food suggestions will make the planning process much simpler.