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Celebrating Five Years of Sides Season

Campbell's has officially launched its 2026 State of the Sides Report, marking the fifth anniversary of its annual dive into America's cherished side dish traditions. In an era where culinary trends rapidly shift, this report stands as a testament to the lasting love that Americans have for their favorite side dishes during the holiday season.

The Power of Sides

The report starkly highlights that sides are emerging as the true stars of Thanksgiving dinners, with 65% of Gen Z and 56% of Millennials expressing satisfaction with solely enjoying side dishes. This reflects a robust cultural shift where family and friends come together not just for the turkey but for the delightful array of accompaniments that make the holiday experience special.

Eighty percent of respondents indicated that they find cooking sides more enjoyable than preparing the main dish, a significant uptick from previous years. On average, families are set to serve at least four different sides this holiday season, with a median of five, contributing to more than 749 million sides nationwide.

The Fan Favorites

The report further reveals America's top side dishes, consistently favored over the years. The line-up includes:
1. Green Bean Casserole
2. Mac and Cheese
3. Yams/Sweet Potatoes
4. Mashed Potatoes
5. Stuffing/Dressing

Rebecca Duke, Senior Director of Brand Marketing at The Campbell's Company, emphasized the ongoing evolution of holiday traditions, stating, “For the past five years, our State of the Sides Report has given us a front-row seat to evolving holiday traditions, and one thing is clear; sides are more central to the celebration than ever.” This aligns with Campbell's mission of blending tradition and convenience with trusted recipes that help families connect through food.

Staying True to Tradition

Green Bean Casserole remains a cherished classic for many, with 67% of Americans recalling fond memories associated with it. Created over 75 years ago in Campbell's Test Kitchen, the simplicity and nostalgia surrounding this side dish are undeniable. The vast majority, 69%, believe it should be made using Campbell's soups, ensuring that this timeless recipe continues to thrive in households.

It’s not just about tradition; the demand during the holiday season is telling. Campbell's sells nearly 40 million cans of Cream of Mushroom Soup during this peak period, contributing to a staggering total of over 308 million cans over the last five years, enough to create a line of green bean casseroles that could encircle the globe.

The Rise of Mac and Cheese

Meanwhile, Mac and Cheese stands out as a versatile side loved across generations. Fifty-seven percent of respondents feel it’s the one dish everyone enjoys, particularly appealing to Gen Z, where it has become their top choice for holiday meals. The ease of preparation adds to its popularity; with Campbell’s Cheddar Cheese Soup, creating a creamy mac and cheese has never been simpler.

Embracing New Traditions

The report also sheds light on the growing trend of merging traditional recipes with modern twists and conveniences. While families uphold tried-and-true recipes, there is an increasing openness to experimentation, driven by convenience and new culinary inspirations, including artificial intelligence. The public's appetite for innovation combines with their love for nostalgia, setting the stage for an exciting culinary future.

Conclusion

As Campbell's continues to celebrate the milestones of Sides Season, the annual State of the Sides Report not only reflects Americans' evolving relationship with their holiday meals but also reinforces Campbell's commitment to being a part of these cherished traditions. For more insights and recipes, visit Campbells.com.

Stay connected with Campbell's through their social channels for all things food related this holiday season! Follow @Campbells on TikTok, Pinterest, and Instagram.