© 2026 10BEST, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, LLC.
Published on Nov. 14, 2025
Thanksgiving, served bold: A feast of flavors and fall favorites, ready for your holiday table – Photo courtesy of katerinasergeevna / E+
10BEST has been serving up Thanksgiving goodness for years, and as we get ready to gather around the dinner table once again, we’re celebrating by spotlighting 10 of our all-time favorite stories.
Whether you’re after chef-approved shortcuts, inspiration to jazz up your side dishes, or just want to dive into some offbeat Thanksgiving trivia, this smorgasbord has something for everyone. Let’s feast!
Pumpkin pie cupcakes and pecan pie cookies are a great way to cap off an unforgettable Thanksgiving meal – Photo courtesy of VeselovaElena / iStock Via Getty Images Plus
Why settle for plain ol’ pumpkin pie when you can wow your guests with a Biscoff cheesecake or pumpkin pudding shots? Discover a dozen simple, showstopping desserts that’ll have your friends and family fighting for seconds.
Read more: 12 easy Thanksgiving dessert ideas your guests will gobble up »
Chef Mawa McQueen offers her kitchen hacks for hosting the perfect holiday dinner – Photo courtesy of Kelsey Brunner / McQueen Hospitality
Ready to host like a pro without breaking a sweat? Michelin-recommended chef Mawa McQueen shares her favorite shortcuts, clever prep tips, and stress-busting secrets for a holiday dinner that’s big on flavor and light on fuss.
Read more: No-hassle holiday dinner hacks from celebrated chef Mawa McQueen »
Thanksgiving side dishes are the highlight of every holiday table – Photo courtesy of VeselovaElena / iStock Via Getty Images
Move over, turkey! These sides are ready for their close-up. Thanks to mouthwatering recipes from culinary stars like Giada De Laurentiis and Wolfgang Puck, you can turn your table into an elevated spread.
Read more: Get recipes for Thanksgiving side dishes from celebrity chefs like Giada De Laurentiis »
Mashed potatoes, upgraded: The side dish that’s ready for its close-up – Photo courtesy of Liliboas / E+
Do you shrug mashed potatoes off as just a supporting act? Think again. Learn how to elevate this classic side with tips and tricks that’ll make your spuds the talk of your Thanksgiving feast.
Read more: How to make mashed potatoes into the star of your Thanksgiving »
Transform yesterday’s feast into today’s breakfast hero – Photo courtesy of LauriPatterson / E+
Leftovers, meet breakfast. Transform yesterday’s feast into crispy, golden waffles that’ll have you looking forward to the morning after Thanksgiving. Or lunch; we won’t judge.
Read more: These Thanksgiving waffles are the best way to enjoy your holiday leftovers »
Leave Seattle or Portland for a scenic Yakima Valley wine country Friendsgiving weekend – Photo courtesy of bpperry / iStock Via Getty Images
Who says Thanksgiving has to be at home? Pack your bags and hit the road with these Friendsgiving escapes, from wine country weekends to waterfront adventures, perfect for making new memories with your favorite people.
Read more: Take a holiday road trip: 10 Friendsgiving ideas for a great getaway »
That turkey leg cannot be held responsible for this nap – Photo courtesy of JodiJacobson / iStock Via Getty Images
Tired of the same, familiar Thanksgiving banter? Dive into a collection of quirky, surprising facts that’ll spark conversation, settle debates, and maybe even earn you bragging rights at the dinner table.
Read more: 10 quirky Thanksgiving facts to share this holiday »
The bird behind America’s favorite feast – Photo courtesy of GMVozd / E+
Ever wondered how turkey became the star of the show? Dive into the delicious history and surprising twists behind America’s iconic Thanksgiving bird.
Read more: This is why we eat turkey on Thanksgiving »
Lanterns light up Thanksgiving traditions – Photo courtesy of LeeYiuTung / iStock Via Getty Images
Thanksgiving isn’t just an American affair. Explore how cultures around the world give thanks, with lanterns, harvest festivals, and feasts that go way beyond turkey and stuffing.
Read more: How 10 countries besides the U.S. celebrate Thanksgiving »
A Thanksgiving table with a historic twist – Photo courtesy of PeopleImages / E+
Ready for a retro feast? Discover what Thanksgiving looked like centuries ago, from wild game to oyster ice cream, and get inspired to serve up a little history at your own table.
Read more: What to make if you’re having a Throwback Thursday Thanksgiving »
Happy feasting, safe travels, and may your mashed potatoes never be lumpy. See you at the table!
Make your holiday leftovers into something special with these chef-provided recipes that eliminate food waste.
Discover the most popular travel stories of 2025 from USA TODAY 10BEST, featuring top destinations, adventures, and reader favorites.
These 10 fast food sides, voted as the best by our readers, might make you forget about the main dish.

source