Americans are piling plates high with sides this week, as a new report highlights how Thanksgiving side dishes like stuffing and mashed potatoes unite the table.
Sides Dethrone Turkey as Thanksgiving’s Star in Michigan
Thanksgiving 2024 might be remembered as the year Michiganders fully embraced the side dish revolution. According to Campbell’s third annual State of the Sides Report, over 55% of Americans prioritize sides over turkey, echoing a nationwide trend. Released just weeks before Thanksgiving, the report is based on a survey of 5,000 Americans, including a representative sample from each state. For Michigan, the standout takeaway is the deep-seated love for comfort foods like mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and the timeless stuffing, which remains a favorite across generations.
Michigan’s Taste for Tradition Meets Creative Twists
Michigan’s Thanksgiving menus often lean on hearty, homemade classics. Mashed potatoes and stuffing dominate local tables, aligning with regional Midwestern preferences, which also highlight green bean casseroles as a must-have. In fact, 62% of Midwestern homes feature this dish, cementing its role as a staple of the heartland holiday.
But innovation is part of the mix too. The survey revealed that 45% of respondents, particularly younger generations, are exploring new variations. From cheesy twists to incorporating spicy jalapeño flavors, these fresh takes are making Friendsgiving—a growing trend among 43% of Americans—a space for culinary creativity.
Campbell’s marketing executive Marci Raible emphasized the significance of these dishes, stating, “For generations, Campbell’s has been at the center of holiday traditions. Our sides bring families together, whether they prefer tradition or creative flair.”
Midwesterners Embrace Cheesy Comfort Foods
The report underscores a Midwestern penchant for rich, creamy sides. Michigan mirrors this with widespread enthusiasm for cheddar-rich mac and cheese and cheesy green bean casseroles. Additionally, stuffing—dubbed the ultimate side dish nationwide—has climbed back to the top spot after a brief slip last year.
The survey also found that 60% of Americans, including a significant number of Michiganders, prefer cooking sides over the main bird. It’s a sentiment that fosters creativity in the kitchen, with side dishes increasingly viewed as an opportunity for culinary experimentation and regional pride.
The Rise of Side Dishes: Thanksgiving’s True Star
Thanksgiving traditions are shifting, and side dishes are taking center stage on holiday tables across America. Once relegated to supporting roles, these flavorful favorites now shine as the highlight of the meal. Here’s what the latest data reveals about the growing love for sides:
- Side Dishes Outshine Turkey: Over 55% of Americans say they’d rather pile their plates high with side dishes than carve into the turkey.
- The Joy of Cooking Sides: A whopping 60% enjoy preparing side dishes more than cooking the bird, seeing sides as an opportunity for creativity and experimentation in the kitchen.
- Mac and Cheese Mania Among Gen Z: For 45% of Gen Z (ages 18–27), mac and cheese is the ultimate Thanksgiving side, cementing its status as a modern holiday staple.
- A Plate Full of Sides: Nearly 40% of respondents admit they’d be perfectly satisfied with a plate composed entirely of side dishes, reflecting the diverse flavors and textures they bring.
- Creamy and Cheesy Flavors Dominate: About 45% crave rich, comforting creamy flavors during the holidays, while 38% eagerly anticipate the cheesy goodness that defines so many Thanksgiving sides. Campbell’s condensed soups remain a trusted base for these indulgent dishes.
- Friendsgiving Flourishes: Nearly 45% of Americans embrace Friendsgiving celebrations, treating them as a chance to experiment with new recipes and share innovative side dishes in a more casual, fun setting.
This evolution in holiday preferences highlights the versatility and emotional connection that side dishes bring to the table, making them the true heart of Thanksgiving celebrations.
Are Side Dishes The Heart of the Holiday Feast – Yep!
The report reflects a growing cultural emphasis on togetherness. While Michiganders stay loyal to classics, 54% of Americans nationwide say side dishes help preserve family heritage, with recipes passed down for generations. This blend of tradition and modern creativity underscores why Thanksgiving is about more than just the food—it’s about the memories.
For Michigan families, whether they’re adding a cheesy flair to old favorites or sticking with timeless green bean casseroles, this Thanksgiving looks to be one filled with flavor and shared moments.
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