Thanksgiving in Utah is no ordinary feast. Beyond the turkey and pumpkin pie you’ll find across the country, this state adds its own unique twists to the holiday, blending flavors, traditions, and a hearty dose of regional charm.
From quirky side dishes to communal customs that warm the heart, Utah knows how to make Thanksgiving both delicious and memorable. Whether you’re a foodie looking for recipe inspiration or someone curious about how Thanksgiving is celebrated in the Beehive State, these recipes and traditions will have you feeling grateful in no time.
A Classic with a Twist: Utah’s Funeral Potatoes
It wouldn’t be Thanksgiving in Utah without a bubbling, cheesy dish of funeral potatoes making its way onto the table. While the name might sound a little morbid, don’t be fooled. This hearty casserole has become a beloved staple at family dinners, celebrations, and yes, even Thanksgiving feasts.
Funeral potatoes combine the comfort of shredded hash browns with the indulgence of creamy sour cream, melted cheddar cheese, and butter, all topped with a satisfying crunchy layer of cornflakes or potato chips. The dish originated as a community meal to bring relatives together after somber occasions, but it didn’t take long for Utah families to claim the recipe as an everyday comfort food. At Thanksgiving, this dish is the star sidekick to turkey, balancing all that savory goodness with a touch of nostalgic flair.
Key ingredients for the ultimate funeral potatoes:
- Shredded hash browns (frozen works like a charm!)
- Heavy sour cream for tangy richness
- Lots (and we mean lots) of sharp cheddar cheese
- A golden, buttery topping using crushed cornflakes or potato chips
- Optional add-ins like diced onions or green chilis for extra zing
Once you try a bite, you’ll understand why no Utah Thanksgiving table is complete without this creamy masterpiece.
Warmth and Whimsy with Mormon Pumpkin Pie
Utah is famous for its strong ties to tradition, and dessert is no exception. Enter the Mormon pumpkin pie, a variation of the classic Thanksgiving dessert that takes it up a notch. What makes it unique? Buttermilk, a touch of cinnamon honey, and just the right balance of spices to create a velvety-smooth filling that feels a little less sweet but extra rich.
This Utah favorite reflects the region's knack for innovation and making old classics even better. The flaky crust is often homemade, rolled thin yet substantial enough to hold that dreamy filling. Some bakers even top their pies with pecans or serve them with a generous dollop of spiced whipped cream to elevate the flavors further. Thanksgiving purists might argue that pumpkin pie is already perfect, but one bite of this Utah spin will convince you otherwise. Consider it an upgrade, not a replacement.
A Hearty Tradition with Dutch Oven Pot Roast
While turkey usually takes center stage on Thanksgiving Day, some Utah families opt for a secret weapon when feeding a crowd, the Dutch oven pot roast. Dutch oven cooking is deeply tied to early Latter-day Saint pioneers, making this savory dish a nod to Utah’s heritage.
The beauty of a Dutch oven pot roast is its simplicity. Cooked low and slow, chunks of tender beef bathe in a rich broth alongside hearty vegetables like carrots, potatoes, and onions. Seasoned with garlic, rosemary, and a splash of red wine (or grape juice for a Utah twist), this dish offers everything you want in comfort food—but with that rustic, pioneer-food aesthetic. Roast enthusiasts will tell you it’s worth planning your day around tending to the pot. Plus, the aroma alone will have guests peeking into the kitchen before dinnertime.
For those looking to try this at home, here are some Dutch oven basics to keep in mind:
- Always use a cast-iron Dutch oven for the best results.
- Brown the roast first to lock in juicy flavors.
- Add veggies during the last hour of cooking to preserve their texture.
The rewarding, melt-in-your-mouth result makes everyone feel like they’ve joined an epic family tradition.
The Peculiar Magic of Jell-O Salad
Yes, Utah’s love of Jell-O truly knows no bounds, and Thanksgiving is no exception. What may be a retro side dish in other states is a required tradition in Utah homes, practically earning its own spot in culinary history. Affectionately dubbed “Green Jell-O Salad” (because green is just better), this creation combines lime-flavored gelatin with shredded carrots, mini marshmallows, crushed pineapple, and sometimes sour cream or cottage cheese for creaminess. It’s as quirky as it sounds, and yet, it just works.
This side dish is both beloved and surprisingly versatile. It’s sweet enough to work as part of dessert but light-heartedly eccentric enough to hold its ground alongside savory dishes. Kid-approved and nostalgia-inducing for adults, it sparks joy and a little laughter at almost every Thanksgiving gathering. Besides, it’s a quick and easy addition when you’re already juggling multiple holiday recipes.
Is it polarizing? Maybe. But here in Utah, we call it tradition.
Outdoor Gratitude with Thanksgiving Morning Hikes
Not all Thanksgiving traditions revolve around food. One Utah-centric custom that locals love is starting the day with a gratitude-filled morning hike. Utah’s stunning landscapes and plethora of trails make it the perfect backdrop for reflecting on the things we’re thankful for. Plus, it’s a sneaky way to work up an appetite before digging into all the casseroles and pies.
Popular hiking destinations like Millcreek Canyon, Antelope Island, or Ensign Peak are often bustling with families on Thanksgiving morning. The crisp fall air, golden foliage, and panoramic mountain views make for an unforgettable experience. It’s less about clocking miles and more about connecting with loved ones and nature while soaking in the peaceful vibe before the holiday frenzy kicks in.
While the more adventurous types may opt for challenging trails, families with little ones generally stick to shorter, scenic walks to get everyone involved. Pro tip? Bring a thermos of hot cider or cocoa to sip on while taking in the views. It’s a holiday tradition that feels every bit as fulfilling as a forkful of turkey and gravy.
Thanksgiving Done the Utah Way
Whether you’re gravy-deep in funeral potatoes, marveling at the velvet richness of pumpkin pie, or catching your breath on a gratitude-filled hike, Utah’s Thanksgiving traditions have one thing in common: they bring people together. Thanksgiving here is a mix of timeless recipes, quirky staples, and a love of community that makes every plate and every gathering feel extra special.
This year, why not incorporate some of Utah’s unique recipes and customs into your holiday celebration? After all, Thanksgiving is about sharing gratitude and creating memories, and that’s something Utah has mastered with flair.
