Thanksgiving tables fill with new favorites

The case against the bird

While turkey prices in general are fairly inexpensive, and turkey demand and pricing have actually been declining in recent years, that doesn’t mean the bird has been completely spared from rising food costs and inflation. A recent analysis says wholesale turkey prices could increase by as much as 40% this year.

The surge in costs is due to economic challenges and the bird flu outbreaks that occurred in the Upper Midwest this fall. And while those looking to indulge in the traditional turkey feast should have no problem finding a bird, some looking to save money amidst ever-growing grocery bills may seek out cheaper alternatives.

Even with turkey being relatively inexpensive by the pound, many hosts are reconsidering whether it’s worth the hassle, particularly when smaller cuts or dishes offer more flavor and less waste. In 2024, Thanksgiving dinner was estimated to cost $58.08 for 10 people, up 19% from 2019. Even small savings, like skipping the bird, can matter.

While turkey is a long-standing tradition for many families, it turns out there’s a growing number of people who simply don’t like it. A 2024 survey asking people to rank their most disliked Thanksgiving food found turkey topping the list, with nearly 35% of respondents naming it.

“I love to cook turkey and duck for Thanksgiving, but as my family grew and changed, the number of people who didn’t like roast turkey increased”, said Brian Hartman, the creator behind Hartman Family BBQ. His menu this year will feature ham, plus a smattering of smoked dishes like smoked corn on the cob, and smoked jalapeno-bacon deviled eggs, a nod to his love of his smoker.

The smaller table movement

Another reason to forego the bird? Thanksgiving tables are getting smaller. According to a 2024 survey, nearly 20% of Americans plan to celebrate Thanksgiving with five or fewer people, a signal that the mega-feast model may be giving way to something more modest.

Smaller gatherings often mean less need for a massive bird and more room for experimentation. Without 14 guests and a rigid menu, many hosts are choosing meals that better suit their space, schedule, and taste.

Want to replace the bird?

If you’re looking for an alternative to the traditional turkey dinner, you have lots of options. Roast chicken is a great go-to alternative. It cooks faster, takes up less oven space and feels special without the commitment of a full turkey. Braised short ribs and pork shoulder are another great option, offering deep flavor with minimal day-of prep, especially when made ahead. For vegetarians and vegans, stuffed acorn squash or portobello mushrooms make hearty, satisfying centerpieces.

Many families find that a compromise is also a great alternative to going all in on a full turkey. “In my family, my dad is the only one who actually likes turkey,” said Michelle Price from Honest and Truly. “While we make a small turkey breast for him, the rest of us decided a few years ago that Thanksgiving is mostly about spending time together, so we make pot roast for dinner instead. It still goes with the rest of the side dishes traditional for Thanksgiving, but it’s so much easier to do, and all of us enjoy eating it.”

Many families who celebrate Thanksgiving in the United States incorporate their own cultural or regional dishes. They serve them instead of, or alongside, traditional American fare.

In some Mexican-American households, tamales are a holiday staple and may take precedence over the turkey, reflecting a tradition of communal cooking and family storytelling. In certain coastal regions, seafood and shellfish also appear on Thanksgiving tables, a nod to local abundance and the region’s culinary heritage.

Some households skip a central main dish altogether and let the sides steal the show. Campbell’s State of the Sides report in 2024 showed that more than half of Americans said they prefer eating the side dishes over the turkey, and over 60% said they enjoy cooking the sides more than the main bird. Dishes like mac and cheese, cheesy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, sweet potato casserole, cornbread dressing and fresh salads can each shine as part of a generous buffet-style spread.

Tips for a bird-free feast

If you’re thinking about making the shift, here are a few planning tips to make your Thanksgiving both delicious and stress free. Choose a star dish that feels festive and indulgent, whether that’s a roasted vegetable platter, a creamy pasta or a boldly seasoned protein. Balance the table with bright sides like festive salads to lighten the meal. To make things easier on yourself, opt for make-ahead dishes like au gratin potatoes, braises or grain-based casseroles that reheat well.

And most importantly, honor your roots. From curry to tamales, several households are increasingly designing Thanksgiving menus around the foods that reflect their heritage, rather than tradition for tradition’s sake.

For many families, skipping the turkey isn’t about making a statement. It’s about making the holiday more meaningful and manageable. In a year marked by economic uncertainty and shifting cultural tides, Americans are discovering that tradition isn’t tied to a single dish.

Hartman, who has started incorporating more and more smoked dishes into the Thanksgiving menu, agrees. “Spending time with family on the actual holiday is what it’s all about. We love snacking on smoked appetizers and enjoying each other’s company.”

Whether it’s with tamales, tofu or tender short ribs, the heart of the holiday remains the same. It’s about good food, shared with the people you love.