From Lobster Rolls To Apple Cider Donut Cake: Cozy Recipes Made For Gathering

Friendsgiving is the best kind of potluck — a laid-back, laughter-filled meal with the people you choose. In the Northeast, it often means balancing comfort and creativity, mixing seaside favorites with hearty, homey dishes that reflect the region’s fall flavors. Whether you’re hosting or bringing a dish to share, these recipes deliver a perfect mix of cozy, classic and just a little bit coastal.

1. Warm Butter Lobster Rolls

Bring a touch of coastal elegance to your Friendsgiving spread with these buttered lobster rolls adapted from Sam The Cooking Guy. Cooked lobster is warmed in butter, lightly seasoned with garlic, paprika, lemon and a pinch of salt, then spooned into toasted brioche or split-top buns. A sprinkle of crispy panko on top adds unexpected texture and takes it from rich to memorable. See the full recipe here

2) Warm Brussels Sprouts Salad

Sally from Sally's Baking Addiction warms shredded Brussels with crisp bacon, sweet apples, toasted pecans and dried cranberries, then tosses everything in a bright maple-orange dressing. The mix hits that savory-sweet balance and adds welcome texture to a rich spread. Serve warm or at room temp so it travels well for potlucks. See the full recipe here.

3) Apple, Sausage & Sage Dressing

The Food52 team offers a dressing that feels festive and familiar — ground sausage is browned then mingled with onion, celery and tart apples, then folded into a herby stuffing mix with dried cranberries and fresh sage. A splash of white wine and broth keeps everything moist, and a bake in the oven gives you a crisp top layer. It’s rich but balanced, comforting but bright around the edges. See the full recipe here.

4) Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese

This version from Love and Lemons blends roasted squash into the cheese sauce, giving classic mac and cheese a silky fall upgrade. It stays creamy and rich — thanks to cheddar, Gruyère and Parmesan — while sneaking in some veggie goodness. The topping of panko breadcrumbs adds a perfect golden crunch. See the full recipe here.

5) Roasted Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Ina Garten’s Barefoot Contessa version leans on slow-cooked garlic for deep flavor and a plush, spoonable texture. It’s classic holiday comfort that plays well with everything else on the table. Simple technique, big payoff. See the full recipe here.

6) Harvest Salad with Apples and Candied Pecans

For a fresh counterpoint, Completely Delicious builds a fall salad with crisp apples, mixed greens, dried cranberries and candied pecans under a maple-balsamic vinaigrette. It brings brightness and texture to a richer spread. Make it right before serving so the greens stay lively. See the full recipe here.

7) Classic Clam Chowder

Simply Recipes keeps it creamy but not heavy, with tender clams, potatoes and just enough briny depth to feel coastal and cozy. Serve in small mugs as a warm starter or make a big pot for a crowd. Oyster crackers optional but encouraged. See the full recipe here.

8) Apple Cider Donut Cake

Serious Eats turns the orchard favorite into a Bundt cake with concentrated cider for true apple flavor and a cinnamon-sugar finish. It slices beautifully, travels well, and nails that nostalgic donut vibe. Guaranteed crowd-pleaser for the dessert finish. See the full recipe here.

Happy feasting — because in the Northeast, it’s not just about what’s on the table, but who’s gathered around it.

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