Ah, Thanksgiving—a time to give thanks, gather with loved ones, and prepare for the inevitable food coma that follows a parade of caloric delights. But let’s face it: the turkey may be the headline act, but the real stars of the Thanksgiving table are the sides. And according to a recent study released by the Campbell’s Soup Company, California has spoken: mashed potatoes reign supreme.
Yes, mashed potatoes—fluffy, buttery, and irresistibly starchy—are California’s favorite Thanksgiving side dish while other states went for the stuffing. This may come as a shock to fans of green bean casserole or cranberry sauce, but let’s be honest: can any other side dish comfort you quite like a mound of creamy spuds? They’re like a warm hug for your taste buds, especially when they’re smothered in gravy.
But let’s unpack this preference, shall we? Californians, many of which are known for kale smoothies and avocado toast, might seem an unlikely champion for such a carb-heavy classic. Yet, on Thanksgiving, all bets are off. It’s as though the state collectively says, “We’ll do yoga tomorrow; today, we’re going full potato.”
And it’s not just us. The study shows mashed potatoes are America’s favorite Thanksgiving side overall, dominating 27 states. So, if you’ve ever debated the merits of sweet potato casserole versus stuffing, the results are in: potatoes win, plain and simple. (Sorry, sweet potatoes. Your marshmallow topping is cute, but it’s not enough.)
But here’s the thing: every family’s mashed potatoes are a little different. Some are whipped to a cloud-like consistency, others are unapologetically lumpy. You’ve got your garlic-infused, your cheesy variations, and let’s not forget the brave souls who experiment with truffle oil. In California, the land of culinary creativity, there’s no limit to how we jazz up our tubers. You might find wasabi mashed potatoes in Los Angeles or turmeric-infused versions in San Francisco. (Thanksgiving dinner, but make it fusion.)
Of course, the mashed potatoes rise to glory leaves other sides wondering where they went wrong. Stuffing, for example, barely made the cut. While iconic, it often faces criticism for being too dry, too soggy, or just too “meh.” And cranberry sauce? Let’s be real—half of us only eat it out of guilt or because it’s shaped like the can it came from.
The study also examined Thanksgiving habits by generation and found that 45% of Gen Z couldn’t get enough mac and cheese, while 59% of Baby Boomers preferred stuffing/dressing. About 32% of Baby Boomers also preferred mashed potatoes.
Overall, according to the report, nearly 40% of Americans would prefer to have a plate full of Thanksgiving sides without turkey.
Yet, no matter where your allegiance lies—whether you’re Team Potato, Team Stuffing, or one of those rogue Californians who sneaks in sushi rolls as a side—Thanksgiving dinner is about more than what’s on your plate. It’s about the stories behind the dishes, the laughter shared over second (or third) helpings, and the universal truth that the best part of the meal is the leftovers.
So, this Thanksgiving, let’s embrace our collective love of mashed potatoes and give them the spotlight they deserve. Whether you’re ladling gravy or digging in with a spoon straight from the serving bowl (no judgment), may your holiday be filled with warmth, gratitude, and carbs—glorious carbs.
And to those who still insist green bean casserole is superior: more power to you, that’s a good choice as well. This is the one time where I will say that the results of this recent survey fully represent my views and opinions of the topic. Bring on the savory spuds! We’ll chat more about Thanksgiving real meaning and real name here next week. Enjoy your holiday week ahead.
Bill Sullivan is a 31-time California News Publishers (CNPA) award recipient and is the co-founder of Folsom Times, an All Town Media LLC online publication. You can reach him at bill@folsomtimes.com.