Eat & Drink

One list says these are the best side dishes from Missouri, Kansas. Do you agree?

Jeremy Smith with team KC Meat Sweats seasoned baked beans before turning them into judging at the American Royal World Series of Barbecue in 2022 at the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan.
Jeremy Smith with team KC Meat Sweats seasoned baked beans before turning them into judging at the American Royal World Series of Barbecue in 2022 at the Kansas Speedway in Kansas City, Kan. ecuriel@kcstar.com

With Thanksgiving just days away, many are planning what’s on the menu for their family meals. While turkey usually takes the lead as the main course, it’s the side dishes that end up stealing the show.

Mashed potatoes, macaroni and cheese, candied yams, collard greens and more take their place on the Thanksgiving dinner table all across the United States. But are any of these the signature side dish in each state?

According to a list organized by Stacker, the traditional holiday side dishes aren’t any of the states’ top choices, but don’t be surprised if you see any of these on the list during your family dinner.

What are Missouri’s and Kansas’ signature side dishes? Here’s what Stacker said.

Signature side dishes in Missouri and Kansas

St. Louis residents won’t be surprised that Stacker’s answer for Missouri’s signature side dish is toasted ravioli. It’s deep-fried ravioli filled with cheese or meat, and often comes with marinara sauce for dipping.

“This dish originated in St. Louis, reportedly by accident, in an Italian American neighborhood called The Hill, though this is up for debate,” Stacker said. “It is sprinkled with grated Parmesan for that extra cheesy goodness.”

Kansas’ signature side dish is more familiar to Kansas City residents, as Kansas-style baked beans earned the honor. The side is cooked low and slow and flavored with molasses, brown sugar and bacon. It’s also dubbed Kansas City-style barbecue baked beans, as it’s a side you can find at the many barbecue spots around the metro.

“The dish has roots in the region’s cattle drives and barbecue culture, and Kansas City is known for serving it alongside smoked meats,” Stacker said. “Some versions incorporate bits of brisket or sausage for a heartier offering.”

What do you think are the top side dishes?

Stacker doesn’t reveal much of its research process on how their staff came to the conclusion that toasted ravioli and baked beans represented each state, so we’re asking you: Was Slacker correct? Are these the signature side dishes in Missouri and Kansas?

Let us know if you’ll be including these dishes at Thanksgiving or what else you like to put on your dinner table.

Joseph Hernandez
The Kansas City Star
Joseph Hernandez joined The Kansas City Star’s service journalism team in 2021. A Cristo Rey Kansas City High School and Mizzou graduate, he now covers trending topics and finds things for readers to do around the metro.
Get unlimited digital access
#ReadLocal

Try 1 month for $1

CLAIM OFFER