Thanksgiving's worst nightmare: bad food

Hannah Langley '25

Executive Podcast Coordinator

Everyone knows that Thanksgiving is all about the food. As someone who is the “designated chef” of the family, Thanksgiving is always a busy time for me. So I’m giving you my guide on what absolutely should - and should not - be on your table for Thanksgiving this year.

Potatoes

I think potatoes are the best part of any meal. My top two potato dishes are either mashed potatoes or potatoes au gratin, so simple yet so delicious. If you do not feel as passionately about potatoes as I do, I recommend making your own this year instead of letting your aunt bring a lumpy mash to the table again.

Green Bean Casserole

This one is not that controversial so I’m just throwing it out there: green bean casserole is the biggest disappointment! Crispy onions and green beans sound good on their own, but together with gelatinous cream of mushroom? No thank you! Trade it for a baked pasta dish at least. But, if anyone has ever had a good green bean casserole feel free to take me to the dark side.

Boiled Veggies

Maybe I’m a food snob or maybe I am just right, but unseasoned boiled veggies? Nope, I’m out. Of course, eat your veggies and all that, but healthy things do not have to taste bad. I mean come on, guys! At least put a little salt and pepper and roast it, it’s Thanksgiving, go all out! Personally I love corn, peas, carrots you name it, they just have to be seasoned properly, like all food.

Stuffing

Now I am really gonna sound crazy but stuffing is not my thing. I do not know what it is about it, but something about the herbs in it, maybe it’s the sage or thyme, it just puts me off. Soggy bread with a bunch of other weird textures is another reason for my particular dislike of stuffing. I think a nice crunchy bread and butter takes the cake. Once again, I am open to change, so if anyone thinks their family recipe is life changing, bring it on.

Selection displaying common Thanksgiving ingredients

Mac and Cheese

This one is a sore subject for many, but bad mac and cheese is a pandemic across many thanksgiving tables, and I am very serious. I love mac and cheese but there are just too many ways people can mess it up. Too liquidy, oily, not cooked enough, or just bland. I understand the trials and tribulations of making a mac and cheese but please, if you are entrusted with the mac and cheese, do it right.

This article may not be what Thanksgiving is about, it is more like me being a big hater, but there is a reason this is on the opinion page. Even if someone made gross mashed potatoes, dry turkey, or boiled veggies (yuck!), you are spending time with the people you love. So if you do not look forward to what someone might bring, just look forward to seeing the person themself. It does not fix the unseasoned dishes, but it brings brilliant flavor to your life. Happy Thanksgiving!