Literally days after I swore off of hosting family events at our house, I found out that we are in charge of hosting Thanksgiving. In an effort to make our family events easier to handle (I’m super anxious about how I like to keep order in our house and I always get a little flustered with having that many people over), we started planning a few days ago.

Chris & I brainstormed what our menu would look like and who would be bringing what dish – potluck style is not only a great way to save money & time, but there are just some recipes that are better coming from loved ones (everyone loves their mom’s cooking, right?).

Our basic menu is this: Turkey, Stuffing & Gravy, Broccoli Cornbread, Mac N Cheese, Green Bean Casserole, Orange Salad, Rolls or Bread, Cranberry Sauce, Pumpkin Pie, Pecan Pie, Veggie Salad, and Cheesecake Dip.

I always over estimate what food we will need so it’s bound to grow; because there’s nothing worse than having a relative complain about the food or lack of. It’s a lose-lose situation.

To help get you started on your own Thanksgiving menu, I compiled a few of my favorite side dishes, similar to those we make or ones we want to try soon. Visit the original recipes and blogs by clicking the links or the pictures (not mine).

Orange Fluff Fruit Salad – Dessert Now, Dinner Later

Southern Style Green Beans – Spicy Southern Kitchen

Crock Pot Mac N Cheese – Pip and Ebby

Easy Cheesy Broccoli Casserole – Yellow Bliss Road

Cherry Cheesecake Dip – I Heart Eating

Do you have a family favorite side for thanksgiving? Have you tried any of the above? Let me know what you think in the comments below!