How To Plan A Successful Friendsgiving Menu

Sometimes you can't make it home for Thanksgiving, but that doesn't mean you have to miss out on the year's best meal. There's something special about sharing your grandmother's famous casserole with your closest friends—a tradition we all know and love as Friendsgiving. That said, when you're the host, it's important to plan or delegate dishes—otherwise, you may end up with three boxes of cookies and no vegetables. Here are our best tips for the biggest and best Friendsgiving meal ever.

Set Up A Signup List, And Be Specific

As the host, decide what you want to make first (this should include the turkey and gravy or main course of your choice for logistical reasons). Map out what dishes you want for the rest of the meal. Add those items to the sheet in the form of categories (for example, a potato dish or something fried) or specific items (candied yams or green bean casserole), and let friends sign up for what they want to bring. A nice balance might include one protein, one or two carbs (mashed potatoes and stuffing), a vegetable side, and a salad. For a really big group, you might double those categories. And of course, don't forget to include appetizers, drinks, and dessert, unless you are planning to provide those.

Take Note Of Food Allergies And Dietary Restrictions

Include a note with the RSVP or contact guests individually regarding special diets and allergies. Be considerate by offering dishes that will accommodate them, such as substantial vegetarian sides (we suggest vegetarian stuffing since it is usually the most filling dish after turkey) or serving nuts on the side of the salad if someone has an allergy. You may have a guest who needs gluten-free options, which could mean making our Gluten-Free Cornbread or simply leaving the bread crumbs off of some dishes. At a large potluck, it's helpful to add labels to dishes so your guests can identify which are vegetarian or contain allergens.

Supply Extra Snacks And Appetizers

We've all been there when the four-hour turkey takes six. Ask a couple of people to bring snacks or appetizers, and keep a couple of backup options (like chips or pretzels) on hand in case dinner gets delayed. Nothing is more stressful than a bunch of hungry guests waiting on you to serve them. If you are responsible for providing appetizers, stick to items that do not require preparation and can be replenished quickly, like cheese or veggies and dip.

Provide Drink And Dessert Variety

Provide (or have guests bring) an assortment of alcoholic beverages to accompany the meal. It's always a good idea to have both red and white wine and beer. Consider making a signature cocktail that guests can help themselves with if you're busy. And always provide alcohol-free options for those who don't want to partake. Good choices include warm apple cider or a variety of seltzers and sodas.

As for dessert, we like a couple of options in addition to pumpkin pie to suit all palates. Our rule of thumb is one fruity item, like sorbet or an apple crisp, and something chocolate, like chocolate-chip cookies. Besides, there's no such thing as too much dessert—just as long as you have all other areas of the menu covered.

Our Best Friendsgiving Recipes

Here are our recommendations for the best Friendsgiving foods for your gathering this year. Find a casserole, side dish, or dessert everyone will love.