The Most Popular Thanksgiving Side Dish in NJ, Revealed

The Most Popular Thanksgiving Side Dish in NJ, Revealed

Staff

Google’s annual Thanksgiving trends report revealed that New Jerseyans have a clear favorite for Thanksgiving: sweet potato casserole. The dish took the crown as the state’s most uniquely searched holiday side, highlighting a preference for this traditional yet versatile classic.

most popular thanksgiving side dishes
Google Trends

Sweet potato casserole also ranked nationally as one of the top five trending Thanksgiving sides, alongside green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, Brussels sprouts, and collard greens. Its mix of earthy sweetness and creamy texture has long made it a holiday staple, often topped with marshmallows, pecans, or a crumbly streusel.

The report showcased how regional tastes differ across the country. In neighboring states, green bean casserole was a popular choice in Pennsylvania, while mashed potatoes led searches in New York. Delaware took a more unconventional route with brie mini tarts.

Nationally, other standouts included Nebraska’s ramen noodle salad and the South’s love for corn casserole. Surprisingly, stuffing—a Thanksgiving classic—claimed top honors in only a handful of states, including Massachusetts and West Virginia.

For those in New Jersey looking to elevate their sweet potato casserole, popular recipes feature variations with brown sugar, maple syrup, or even bourbon. The dish’s flexibility allows home cooks to put their own spin on this holiday favorite, ensuring it remains a centerpiece of the table.

Beyond sides, Google’s data revealed trends for main courses and drinks. Smoked turkey and turducken topped searches for the holiday meal, while seasonal beverages like Pumpkin Pie Martinis and Apple Cider Sangria offered festive ways to toast the season.

Additionally, Google released information on the most searched baked goods for Thanksgiving. In New Jersey, baked brie takes the cake. Wait… what?

most popular thanksgiving side dishes
Google Trends