Friendsgiving is a special time to catch up with friends and to eat some delicious food.

The holiday is also an ideal excuse to bring all your friends together and force them into the kitchen. It can seem like a lot to step into the kitchen and just start cooking, especially when Friendsgiving is right around the corner, but have no fear. We're here to save the day with these exciting Friendsgiving food ideas that just about anyone can make.

1. Cheeseboard

The first thing on your list should be a cheeseboard. Cheeseboards are a perfect appetizer for those of us who want to avoid cooking altogether. There's nothing quite like walking into a kitchen and seeing all those tasty jellies and cheeses to start off Friendsgiving. Just cruise on over to your local grocery store and hit up that delectable cheese section.

But what goes on the cheeseboard, you ask? Let's break it down:

First, you need both soft and hard cheeses. Perhaps a brie or burrata along with gouda or sharp cheddar. Having a variety of cheeses means there will be a little something for everyone. Next, you need some greenery. Whether that be some garnish like rosemary or basil or something like olives to spruce up the platter. Also, consider fruits. Berries are always a classic hit, but apple and pears can give the board a holiday twist—and don't forget about your favorite fruit spread. Whether you like jam or jelly, fig spread is all the rave. Of course, the last thing you need is some crackers, nuts or wafers because what's a cheese board without them? Assemble your platter, and be on your way.

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2. Drinks

In order to keep the festivities going, there's nothing like some sparkling lemonade or cider. Trader Joe's sparkling lemonade or the classic Martinelli's needs to make an appearance at Friendsgiving. No holiday is complete without a little bubbly. And if this doesn't suffice, try and make your own festive punch. Definitely add some cinnamon sticks in celebratory glasses for holiday décor.

 

3. Dip, Dip, Dip

While everyone is waiting around for the main dish, people need to snack. A super easy way to contribute to Friendsgiving is with a dip. There are so many options when it comes to making a dip. Whether you want a classic onion dip or something even more impressive, make sure someone's bringing it. If you're not a chef, throw some Hidden Valley Ranch seasoning into some sour cream, and no one will question it. It'll be a hit.

 

4. Greens

We know, we know, greens aren't everyone's favorite part of a Thanksgiving dinner, but what you decide to bring is totally up to you. You can choose to do a salad, brussels sprout, green bean casserole or classic streamed veggies. While all of these are good options, no one wants to eat simple greens—especially with all of the other delicious offerings on the Friendsgiving table—so make sure to add some color to it. If you choose to make a salad, add some cranberry seeds and peaches into it, or create a Caprese Salad with tomatoes and cheese. If you want to make Brussels sprouts, but a balsamic glaze and walnuts with them. It's easy to throw some color into each one of your dishes, so make sure to add a little orange or red to make your greens look even tastier.

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5. Stuffing

Stuffing doesn't always have to be a complicated side dish to make. If you want to keep it simple, go to your local grocery store and pick up boxed stuffing. Usually, just adding butter and water and heating it in a pan will do the trick. If you are feeling daring, you might even try making stuffing from scratch. We recommend bread, celery, some seasoning and chicken broth for a simple take on Thanksgiving stuffing. 

 

6. Potatoes Are a Must

What's Friendsgiving without potatoes? Potatoes are a necessity when it comes to Friendsgiving dinner. The best part is, it doesn't matter what kind. Whether they're baked, herb-roasted, pan-fried, mashed or sliced and served in a casserole, everyone will be happy that potatoes are there. Friendsgiving is also a perfect time to experiment and maybe spice them up a little. When making them into a casserole, add bacon, shredded cheese and onion or bake them and top them off with sour cream and cheese to make a creamy loaded baked potato dream. 

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7. Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is the dish that needs to appear on that Friendsgiving table. It's a classic side that will go perfectly with that potato casserole. There aren't any rules when it comes to Friendsgiving. This is another dish you can get crafty with. Maybe add different types of cheese, or perhaps add the bacon that's been calling to you from the back of the fridge. 
 

8. Dessert

Let's not forget about the best part of Friendsgiving. Pumpkin pie is a classic dessert to have around the table, but remember that your friends will want to bring that, too. Instead, why not make pumpkin bread? It's an easy baking process and is delicious with pecans baked inside or whipped cream on top. And let's say you don't like pumpkin, that's okay. People can't live without chocolate. If you decide to go this route, chocolate cake, homemade chocolate chip cookies, brownies or simply a box of chocolates will have the people wishing you brought more.

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The next step is figuring out what to wear. Click HERE to decide which look you'll be slaying this year.