Thanksgiving traditions look a little different in every family, but great food is something we all share. To celebrate the season, we asked Liberty students to tell us their favorite Thanksgiving dishes. Their answers give a delicious glimpse into the holiday traditions in our community. Some people like to have a wide variety of foods that they enjoy eating on Thanksgiving, while others have a smaller circle of foods they choose.
In a recent school survey, Liberty students were asked to pick their favorite Thanksgiving dish. Responses covered everything from sweet casseroles to savory sides, but green bean casserole came out on top. Most students preferred the classic version with mushroom soup and crispy onions.
Along with green bean casserole another common answer was mashed potatoes. Some people like they’re mashed potatoes really mashed, others like it with it not fully mashed. There’s also many different ways to season mashed potatoes, with salt and pepper or even something with a tangy taste to it. There are quite a few ways to add to your mashed potatoes too, like cheese or other dairy products.
Another popular thanksgiving dish is macaroni and cheese. This dish can be made many different ways, it can be baked in the oven or made regularly. Some families add bacon or extra cheese, other families add spices or make it hot. Even the type of pasta can vary, from classic elbow macaroni to orecchiette. How macaroni and cheese is made often depends on family tradition, making each version unique and special.
Other common dishes served and eaten on thanksgiving are sweet potatoes, sweet potato casserole, stuffing, buffalo chicken dip, and cinnamon carrots. These other common dishes can be made however the family desires, for example the sweet potato casserole can be made with various types of marshmallows and nuts.
Along with buffalo chicken dip, the way it tastes depends on how you make it. It can be made with different types of ingredients and spices along with different types of chicken used. The dressing and extra mix-ins can add a different taste to the dip and can make it to your personal preference. The cooking method or style can also have an affect on how it comes out in the end.
Cinnamon carrots are a Thanksgiving classic that can be sweet, buttery, and full of flavor. Most recipes use simple ingredients like carrots, butter, cinnamon, and a little brown sugar or honey, but some families like to add a splash of orange juice or water for a twist. You can make them however you like, roasted in the oven, air-fried, glazed on the stovetop, or even slow-cooked, which makes this dish as flexible as it is tasty.
No matter what ends up on our Thanksgiving tables, it’s clear Liberty students have strong opinions about their favorite dishes. Whether it’s green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, or a cheesy pan of macaroni, every family brings its own traditions to the holiday, and that’s what keeps Thanksgiving special.
