Thanksgiving is almost here, and New Yorkers are already gearing up to gather around the table with friends and family. While turkey may still be the centerpiece of most holiday spreads, Campbell’s fourth annual State of the Sides report has revealed that in New York, side dishes are the true stars.
According to the report, 63% of Americans now prefer eating side dishes rather than the main entrée at their holiday table. That’s up from 56% last year. 47 % say they’d be perfectly happy with a plate full of side dishes and no turkey at all.
Mac and Cheese Takes the Top Spot
According to the 2025 State of the Sides report, macaroni and cheese is now the number one favorite side dish among New Yorkers. Campbell’s reports that 50% of Americans believe mac & cheese should be a staple at every holiday table. This comfort food favorite, often considered a more recent addition to traditional Thanksgiving menus, has quickly become a must have. The report also shows that mac and cheese is gaining nationwide popularity, ranking fourth among American Thanksgiving side dishes overall.
The Top Five Side Dishes in New York
The report revealed a surprising shake up in the rankings, with sweet potatoes coming in second above classic mashed potatoes, a long-time national favorite. Here’s how the top five played out in New York:
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Macaroni and Cheese
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Sweet Potatoes
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Mashed Potatoes
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Stuffing or Dressing
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Fried or Baked Potato Dishes
How New York Differs from the Rest of the Country
While New York’s top pick is mac and cheese, the rest of the country still favors stuffing or dressing as their number one Thanksgiving side dish. The report also highlights that green bean casserole, once ranked in the U.S. top five, did not make New York’s list at all this year…