Chicago really loves stuffing

Breaking news: Chicagoans dig soft, buttery cubes of turkey- and thyme-flavored bread.

Driving the news: Nearly half of surveyed Axios Chicago readers chose stuffing as their favorite side.

• It was the most Googled Thanksgiving side dish in the state this year, according to Illinois Bet.

Zoom out: Stuffing also ranked highest in 27 other states, according to Campbell's latest "State of the Sides" report. But maybe they were "stuffing" the ballot box.

• 🥔 22 states prefer mashed potatoes, while Massachusetts refused to take a stance.
• 🍠 Other top national dishes include sweet potatoes, green bean casserole and Justin's favorite, mac and cheese.
• 🍽 Arkansas, Alaska and Idaho don’t like it when their sides touch.
• 🥗 Justin agrees — that's why the sides plate was created.

💭 Monica's thought bubble: I bought regular, gluten-free and keto stuffing this year to accommodate guests and still have plenty for leftovers.

• Pro tip: Save your plastic take-out boxes to pack up leftovers for guests.
• And if you're a guest, maybe bring a box just in case.