Camilla Jessen
This is why it keeps winning.
Turkey may be the centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinner, but most Americans agree it’s the side dishes that steal the show.
In a new report from Campbell’s, over 5,000 Americans shared their thoughts on holiday cooking — and the results might not surprise anyone who’s ever piled their plate high with more mashed potatoes than meat.
According to the data, 66% enjoy cooking side dishes more than the turkey, 63% say they prefer sides over turkey, and 47% say they’d be happy eating just sides.
So, what’s the side dish Americans love most?
A returning favorite
For the second year in a row, stuffing came out on top as the most-loved Thanksgiving side dish.
It was voted the favorite in 42 out of 50 states, leaving mashed potatoes (last year’s winner) in second place.
Sweet potatoes, macaroni and cheese, and green bean casserole rounded out the top five.
Why is stuffing so special?
Food editor Alex Loh says it’s all about comfort and tradition.
“If you gave me a plate with just stuffing on it, I would be thrilled,” Loh said. “It’s basically a whole meal in one cozy casserole dish.”
Whether it’s cornbread stuffing, a sausage-stuffed version, or even boxed mix made with love, stuffing brings warmth, nostalgia, and flavor.
It also reheats like a dream.
This article is made and published by Camilla Jessen, who may have used AI in the preparation
