Holiday meals are supposed to bring everyone together, but these 15 family dishes have sparked enough arguments to last until the next holiday season. Whether it’s over the right way to cook stuffing or the never-ending debate about cranberry sauce, these dishes have seen it all. Forget small talk—these meals are the real conversation starters. Prepare yourself for some lively debates over who’s in charge of the mashed potatoes this year.
Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
A dish that often leads to debates about the merits of beet greens in general. Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta are a bold side dish that raises some eyebrows at the table. Some people love the slightly bitter greens paired with the salty pancetta, while others aren’t so sure. One thing’s for sure—it’s never a quiet part of the meal.
Get the Recipe: Sautéed Beet Greens with Pancetta
Wild Rice Salad
Wild Rice Salad has been known to start up some debates, especially when people have differing opinions about the texture. Some argue for a firmer, crunchier bite, while others prefer it soft and tender. The addition of extra toppings also raises some eyebrows—should it be a mix of fresh or cooked ingredients? Whatever the choice, this dish is always part of the conversation at holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Wild Rice Salad
Parisian Potatoes
One of those sides that’s bound to divide the table and get people talking. Parisian Potatoes often create a bit of a stir at holiday dinners. Some people love the little round shape and smooth texture, while others are convinced that a more rustic version would serve better. Whether it’s the presentation or the taste, this dish is sure to spark some heated debates.
Get the Recipe: Parisian Potatoes
Turkey & Apple Panini
Turkey & Apple Panini isn’t your typical holiday meal, but it’s got its fair share of fans and critics. Some argue the sweet and savory combination doesn’t belong at the table, while others swear it’s the perfect post-feast snack. The debate often centers on whether the apple should be fresh or cooked into the filling. Still, it’s a crowd-pleaser for anyone brave enough to try it.
Get the Recipe: Turkey & Apple Panini
Smoked Carver Ham
This dish is always the center of attention, for better or worse. Smoked Carver Ham is a holiday classic that’s never without controversy. Some swear by a specific smoking technique to bring out the flavor, while others believe in a more traditional approach. Then there’s the issue of how thick or thin the slices should be—expect at least one person to ask for “just a bit more.”
Get the Recipe: Smoked Carver Ham
Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned
There’s no question that Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned packs a punch, but that doesn’t mean everyone agrees on how it should be served. Some say it’s the perfect drink to pair with a slice of pie, while others think it takes away from the dessert itself. The mix of flavors brings out strong opinions—expect some lively chatter. It’s a drink that gets people talking, no matter what side you’re on.
Get the Recipe: Gibson’s Apple Pie Old Fashioned
Traeger Smoked Turkey
Traeger Smoked Turkey isn’t just a turkey, it’s a point of pride for some families. Those who swear by it defend their smoking technique fiercely, while others think a more traditional oven-roasted bird is the only way to go. The biggest debate? The level of smokiness. Some say less is more, while others argue that the more smoke, the better. Either way, it’s a main course that demands attention.
Get the Recipe: Traeger Smoked Turkey
Sunshine Salad
A simple side like Sunshine Salad may not seem like it could stir up much trouble, but it’s sparked some intense discussions. Is it supposed to be creamy or light? Should it have fruit or just veggies? Whether it’s the color or the texture, this salad has a way of dividing the table into two camps. If nothing else, it brings some bright color to the plate.
Get the Recipe: Sunshine Salad
Smoked Turkey Thighs
If you’ve ever had Smoked Turkey Thighs, you know they’re full of flavor—but not everyone agrees on how they should be cooked. Some prefer a light, smoky finish, while others insist the meat should be cooked longer for extra depth. The skin texture is another point of contention, with some insisting it must be crispy. It’s a dish that never fails to create a little healthy tension.
Get the Recipe: Smoked Turkey Thighs
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer may seem like a simple side, but it brings out the opinions in full force. Some argue the air fryer isn’t the best method for getting that crispy exterior, while others are convinced it’s the way to go. The texture of the potato itself often sparks debates—should it be soft all the way through or have some bite? Regardless, it’s always a dish that gets passed around the table.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potatoes in Air Fryer
Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry
Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry have been the subject of many holiday debates. Some argue the puff pastry should be flaky, others insist it must be golden and crispy. The filling, too, has caused disputes—should it be hearty and chunky or smooth and creamy? Either way, this dish brings comfort, but don’t expect everyone to agree on what makes it perfect.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pies with Puff Pastry
Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup
Some people love the mix of cauliflower and sweet potato, while others claim it doesn’t belong together. Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup is the kind of dish that turns into a holiday talking point. The texture of the soup always sparks discussions—should it be smooth or chunky? Whether you like it or not, this soup brings its own set of opinions to the table.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower & Sweet Potato Soup
Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
There’s no denying that Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans have earned their spot on the holiday table, but that doesn’t mean everyone agrees on how they should be made. The cooking time, the seasoning—there’s plenty of room for difference of opinion. Some argue that slow-cooking gives the best flavor, while others prefer a quicker method. Either way, this dish always gets a response.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Southern Green Beans
Turkey Pot Pie Soup
If you think Turkey Pot Pie Soup is a simple dish, think again. This bowl of comfort often ignites debates over how close it should be to the classic pot pie. Should it be thick or more broth-based? Should the biscuit topping be served separately or mixed in? No matter how it’s served, it’s always the start of an interesting discussion.
Get the Recipe: Turkey Pot Pie Soup
Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes
Don’t be fooled by the simplicity of Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes—this dish has its share of critics. While some praise the air fryer for creating the perfect crisp, others believe there’s nothing like a traditional oven-baked version. The sweetness of the potatoes also starts a conversation about how much sweetness is just right. At the table, you can count on some back-and-forth on this one.
Get the Recipe: Air Fryer Sweet Potato Cubes