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Cooking vegan food for the holidays shouldn’t be overwhelming! Here are the best vegan Thanksgiving recipes worth celebrating!
Do you think that your meatless Thanksgiving will be less festive than the traditional thanksgiving meal? Well, think again! Because these favorite vegan thanksgiving recipes are perfect for your plant-based holiday!
Main dishes. Sides. Salads. Desserts. And even stuffing recipes. This article has it all for the holiday season. All you need to do is pick your favorites. Then, hit the farmer’s markets, and start cooking.
Now, ready for a truly marvelous Thanksgiving? Then checking out these 41 vegan holiday recipes for your plant-based diet is a definite must!
What Do Vegans Eat on Thanksgiving?
Convinced that Thanksgiving is all about the turkey? Well, I beg to differ! Vegans, too, get to enjoy the charms of this holiday. Minus all of those animal products on the table. How? Easy!
There are tons of plant-based options you can play around with on your Thanksgiving menu. Veggie roasts, colorful casseroles, non-meat pies, and tofu-loaded dishes. Take your pick for your Thanksgiving feast!
Vegans may not take comfort in the classic Thanksgiving dishes. But they can make new classics. After all, this holiday is all about tradition. And there’s nothing less delicious than basing it on plants!
Vegan Thanksgiving Main Dish Recipes
Not sure what to be the star of your vegan Thanksgiving recipes? Here are some very tempting (and yummy!) ideas.
1. Lentil Roast with Gravy
Source: wallflowerkitchen.com
Make this lentil roast for Thanksgiving; even meat lovers won’t miss the carved turkey. Healthy, rich, and without a touch of soy.
With a meat-like texture and amazing taste, this vegan roast has to be one of the most festive vegan dishes ever.
The roast includes lentils, beans, and oats. But the thing you will appreciate the most is definitely the tangy onion gravy.
This roast is one of the best alternative Thanksgiving meals to turkey!
2. Green Bean Casserole
Source: knowyourproduce.com
Is a casserole your idea for a vegan Thanksgiving centerpiece? Then this bean-loaded goodness is something you should try.
At first, this looks and tastes like it has meat in it. But actually, those are mushrooms and fried onions.
So crispy, creamy, and incredibly flavorful. This nutritious dish is so worthy of your holiday table. And the best part? It is 100% plant-based. But no one will be able to tell!
Going to a potluck? You’ll love this recipe for Thanksgiving potlucks.
3. Mushroom Wellington
Source: beplantwell.com
A Wellington is a holiday classic. No matter what it is filled with. Just put it on the table, and watch your guests start anticipating.
A crispy pastry, filled with a creamy mushroom, onion, and spinach mixture. How can it not be tempting? Buttery, filling and flavored with thyme.
The pastry is stuffed with whole portobello mushrooms. That gives the dish that meaty texture which everyone will enjoy.
Serve it as an easy vegan gravy and even the meat eaters will be drooling over it.
4. Lentil Loaf
Source: beplantwell.com
Packed with veggies, protein, and much flavor! This loaf with lentils, carrots, mushrooms, celery, and breadcrumbs, will satisfy everyone.
The best thing about it? Definitely the sweet ketchup glaze! It gives it a meat-skin look that will have the non-vegetarians hooked after the very first bite.
It pairs with just about anything. So choose a side, and serve with confidence!
5. Shepherds Pie
Source: theveganatlas.com
Described as a “deep dish of comfort,” and for good reason. This vegan version of your classic Shepherd’s pie is just the rich and flavorful thing your Thanksgiving table needs.
A wine-sauteed mushroom filling and a buttery potato topping. I promise you that no one will leave a crumb on their plate.
With subtle thyme flavors, every bite is pure pleasure.
6. Chickpea Meatloaf
Source: runningonrealfood.com
Who doesn’t like meatloaves for Thanksgiving? But what if you are making your holiday table all plant-based or want to surprise a special vegan guest? Then this is the recipe to choose!
A vegan meatloaf loaded with chickpeas, oats, nuts, carrots, mushrooms, and celery. And some spices and sauces to boost the flavor.
Serve with potato or cauliflower mash, and take comfort in this beautiful dish.
7. Wild Rice Casserole
Source: veganblueberry.com
Wild rice is a fancy grain that is perfect for feasts. And this wild rice casserole is definitely a match for your Thanksgiving dinner.
Layers of mushrooms, bechamel sauce, and wild rice make one decadent casserole. You can even add something crunchy on the top, for a more satisfying bite.
This dish is perfect as a main course, but you can easily make it a side. Either way, it will be absolutely delicious.
8. Pumpkin Risotto
Source: zardyplants.com
Pumpkins for Thanksgiving? Yes, please! Creamy risotto? Even better! But having them both in a single bite? Absolutely irresistible!
Pumpkin puree, onion, garlic, rice, and warming herbs, make this cozy dish that will become a fall regular.
If you want to add a bit of zestiness, add some lemon juice to the mix.
9. Seitan Turkey
Source: zardyplants.com
Do you and your guests tolerate gluten well? Then this protein-packed dish with vital wheat gluten is a must!
Seitan and beans is a combo that gives both the protein and lysine acids, which will completely make up for the absence of turkey.
Not to mention, this seitan roast is incredibly delicious. Pair with some potatoes and carrots and mushroom gravy, for a full-blown roast dish.
Super moist, juicy, and very nutritious!
Save this recipe as a great Healthy Christmas dinner option!
Vegan Thanksgiving Stuffing Recipes
Looking for 100% vegan stuffing for your Thanksgiving dinner? Here are a few recipes you will absolutely love.
10. Simple Traditional Stuffing
Source: knowyourproduce.com
Simple says it all. This stuffing uses common vegan ingredients. But it yields that classic taste you’re looking for during the holidays.
So filling (or should I say stuffing?) and delicious. This will be your go-to recipe that you will gladly make for your feasts.
Bread, butter, celery, onions, and delightful seasonings. Plus, warming veggie broth for some nourishment. This makes one comforting bowl of flavor!
11. Stove Top Stuffing
Source: thishealthykitchen.com
Perfect for the holidays, but quick enough to comfort you on a busy weeknight. This stovetop stuffing recipe is nothing but satisfying.
Toasted bread with nuts, veggies, and broth. Plus, fall-favorite herbs to bring some flavor.
Wait until I tell you that you only need 30 minutes to whip it up, and it will become your favorite thing ever.
12. Wild Rice Stuffing
Source: wildveganflower.com
If the previous two stuffing recipes are too basic for you, then here is one you should not miss. Why? Because it pairs exciting flavors and textures together.
Chewy rice, crunchy and sweet apples, soft mushrooms, buttery silkiness, and warm flavors to cozy you up. It really doesn’t get any more Thanksgiving than that.
Fall-inspired and delicious, this is a stuffing recipe you will be coming back to every year.
13. Zucchini Stuffing Casserole
Source: plantbasedandbroke.com
Zucchini, carrots, onions, corn, ciabatta bread, and loads of garlicky flavor. Plus some broth and silky vegan butter. Combined in a single dish and baked until crispy delightfulness.
If you’re looking for a one-pan, 100% vegan stuffing recipe, then this is it. And it takes only 5 minutes to get everything ready.
Perfect for a cold day, with a glass of wine, and your family and friends by your side.
Vegan Thanksgiving Side Recipes
A good and complimentary side dish is a must on every holiday dinner table. For your Vegan Thanksgiving, I suggest these ten delightful sides.
14. Italian Roasted Potatoes
Source: pinchandswirl.com
If you ask me, there isn’t a dish that doesn’t go well with roasted potatoes. Period. They are crispy. Flavorful. They are super filling. And incredibly versatile!
This recipe uses red potatoes, coated with olive oil, and seasoned with some salt. Plus, there’s some fresh sage and rosemary for some warm and cozy flavors.
15. Oven Roasted Whole Cauliflower
Source: watchwhatueat.com
If you’ve always shied away from roasted cauliflower dishes because of fear of getting a bland taste, now’s the time to stop. Because this dish is anything but.
Coated with a spicy sauce made with jalapenos, ketchup, paprika, garlic, cilantro, and lime. Roasted along with tomatoes. Easy to serve. And pretty fancy on your table, too.
How can you not give this a try?
16. Squash Soup
Source: pinchandswirl.com
When the fall months roll over, I take comfort in nourishing golden squash creamy soups. And trust me, your Thanksgiving guests will do, too.
So warm, cozy, and incredibly nutritious. This smooth and silky soup is the perfect holiday side.
With curry paste flavors, coconut milk, and crunchy pepitas topping. The only word that comes to mind to describe this soup is irresistible.
17. Mushroom Meatballs
Source: mypureplants.com
Craving meatballs on a meatless diet? These mushroom bites can take on the Swedish classic, anytime. Think it’s not possible? Then try them and see them for yourself!
When there are walnut meals and rice to combine, soy sauce, paprika, and garlic to flavor, it’s hard not to end up with addictive balls.
The thing I love the most about these vegan delights is that they can make one heck of a side dish. In addition to being irresistible on top of your spaghetti.
18. Butternut Squash Spinach Skillet
Source: babaganosh.org
Squash and spinach, with a touch of lemon and garlic for a flavorful side dish. A one-pot dish that is nutritious and plant-based.
The recipe includes hints of cumin. And I strongly suggest you do, too. It adds some smokiness to the squash, and pairs perfectly with the spinach.
And with only 30 minutes from start to finish, this also qualifies for your “convenient recipes” folder.
19. Roasted Brussel Sprouts
Source: veganblueberry.com
Don’t worry! These cabbage-like bites will not taste bitter. Trust me, even if you’re not a fan of this veggie, you will love this recipe.
With a sweet and tangy maple, Dijon, and balsamic dressing, there are tons of flavors that “mask” the raw and earthy flavor of the Brussel Sprouts.
The recipe uses nothing else but salt and pepper, but add some chili flakes for a spicier kick.
20. White Bean Butternut Squash
Source: veganblueberry.com
Are you looking for a creamy mash that doesn’t include potatoes? I’ve just found you a winner.
This smooth and pureed side dish with roasted squash, beans, and garlic is super delicious.
Golden in color and irresistible in flavor, this mash pairs well with anything. And it is super easy to make, too.
21. Mashed Potatoes
Source: knowyourproduce.com
Do you want a classic flavor on your Thanksgiving table? But you have to do it in a vegan way? Then this plant-based potato mash is a must!
Let’s face it. Anything tastes better with a good mash on a holiday dinner.
Yukon potatoes, almond milk, vegan butter, and vegan cream cheese for a silky, smooth, and delightful melt-in-your-mouth consistency.
22. Instant Pot Borscht
Source: ifoodreal.com
Borscht. The warm and comforting fall soup. Deep in red color and in taste!
With cabbages, beets, potatoes, beans, and carrots. Plus, tomato sauce to combine everything together.
An Eastern European classic to bring nourishment to your Thanksgiving table.
Plus, it is made in the Instant Pot. Which is perfect when you’re making a holiday dinner for a crowd.
23. Mac and Cheese
Source: beplantwell.com
You don’t have to consume dairy to enjoy a decent Mac and Cheese.
With vegan cheddar, coconut milk, and vegan butter, this dish has it all. Creaminess on the inside, crispiness on the top, and golden color that just lures you to one more bite.
The sauce is spiced with some paprika, salt, and pepper.
Vegan Thanksgiving Salad Recipes
Thanksgiving is not Thanksgiving without a decent salad. And here are some of the most delicious vegan options.
24. Carrot and Beetroot Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
Shredded carrots and beetroots, drenched in a tangy dressing. Low in calories but super rich in flavor. This salad goes well with anything.
The touch of honey is enough to tone down the balsamic intensity. But the veggies are already naturally sweet, which makes this salad incredibly delicious.
A perfect vegan side option! Feel free to use more spices and herbs, if you want to boost the flavor a bit more.
25. Vegan Fall Harvest
Source: happykitchen.rocks
The name “fall harvest” says it all. This salad is chocked full of fall ingredients that pair together perfectly.
With kale, pumpkins, apples, Brussel Sprouts, and pomegranate seeds. The flavor doesn’t get any more fall-inspired than this.
Feel free to add some more spices and add a more personal stamp on the taste.
This harvest salad also makes a great healthy Thanksgiving appetizer recipe.
26. Rocca Salad
Source: plantbasedfolk.com
Do you want a Middle Eastern taste for your Thanksgiving dinner? Then this Rocca salad is a good way to go.
Arugula, onions, lemon, and sumac dressing to coat everything well.
The walnuts and pomegranate seeds add texture. Plus, they add a pop of color to elevate the greenness.
27. Malfouf Salad
Source: plantbasedfolk.com
Malfouf is a Lebanese cabbage salad that you simply have to try. It’s so simple, yet super scrumptious.
Refreshing with notes of garlic and citrus, there is nothing you’d like to change about this recipe.
Cabbage and parsley with some lemons, olive oil, and garlic. It’s as simple as that.
28. Bulgur Wheat Salad
Source: allnutritious.com
Bulgur-based salad with lettuce, broccoli, and avocados. A green vegan side that is packed with nutrients.
And it doesn’t need special dressing, either. Just add some dill, lemon juice, and olive oil. The season to taste, and enjoy!
It is not only refreshing and delicious but extremely filling, too.
You can also use rice. But I highly suggest you give this bulgur version a try.
29. Cinnamon Walnut Kale and Quinoa
Source: ifoodreal.com
Looking for an explosion of texture? Well, here you go! Toasted walnuts, chewy quinoa, crunchy apples, and leafy kale.
Plus, incredible flavors. Sweet, nutty, tangy, with a hint of cinnamon.
There is blue cheese in the recipe. You can either swap with something vegan or omit it. Try both versions. Then see which one you prefer more
30. Roasted Broccoli Salad with Grapes
Source: lucismorsels.com
Haven’t tried a broccoli and grape combo? Then I urge you to whip up this delight.
So simple to make but incredibly delicious and fancy-looking, this has to qualify for a good side on your holiday table.
Roasted grapes and broccoli with a lemon vinaigrette. For best results, use red, seedless grapes.
Vegan Thanksgiving Dessert Recipes
Vegan thanksgiving desserts are not as overwhelming as they sound. Without any real butter, milk, or eggs, sweet delights are still possible. And here are my top choices to enjoy after your vegan thanksgiving dinner.
31. Sweet Potato Pie
Source: fromthecomfortofmybowl.com
The thing I love most about potatoes is, they can handle their spices with grace. Sweet potatoes, too.
So, it’s no wonder why this cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin spice, and vanilla sweet potato filling tastes so good.
Creamy filling with a crumbly crust is all I want after my holiday dinner. And a vegan whipped cream on top. Yummy!
32. Pumpkin Cheesecake
Source: veganblueberry.com
Looking for the perfect ending to your vegan holiday dinner? This pumpkin cheesecake!
Creamy, sweet, and spiced with pumpkin pie spice and cinnamon.
Isn’t that the perfect fall dessert, or what? Use canned puree, and you will be whipping this up during the summer, too.
33. Pumpkin Banana Bread
Source: wholefoodsoulfoodkitchen.com
Have you ever added pumpkins to your banana bread? It is just the thing you need during those suddenly cold fall days.
Warm spices and sweet ingredients, how can you go wrong?
If you want to, you can add some chopped walnuts to the batter. Who doesn’t like extra crunchiness, right?
34. Apple Cranberry and Pomegranate Oatmeal Crisp
Source: crumbtopbaking.com
Speaking of crunchiness, you simply have to give this delight a try. Crispy on so many levels! This apple, cranberry, and pomegranate dessert with oats and almond butter is so tasty.
There are also orange and chai spice flavors, which only increase those warm and cozy notes.
Perfect with your afternoon tea, don’t you think?
35. Pumpkin Cookies
Source: nosweatvegan.com
One bowl and 10 minutes of prep time are needed to make these incredibly light pumpkin cookies.
They are spicy, flavorful, and can easily satisfy a crowd.
They are drizzled with a maple and cashew glaze. That not only boosts the sweetness but also makes them look cuter on your table.
36. Pumpkin Brownies
Source: wholefoodsoulfoodkitchen.com
Fudgy, crunchy, chocolatey, pumpkin brownies. With nuts, chocolate pieces, and a warm pumpkin pie spice.
All you need is 35 minutes to make them, and only 10 to whip up the batter.
It doesn’t get any easier than this, but the taste is enjoyable and very fall-comforting.
Serve with a glass of plant-based milk, and enjoy!
37. Pumpkin Spice Latte
Source: wholefoodsoulfoodkitchen.com
A pumpkin spice latte is the ultimate fall pick-me-up to have! Seriously, if you have never given this holiday coffee drink a try, you have to change that.
And this is the perfect recipe to get you started.
Espresso, pumpkin puree, oat milk, and pumpkin pie spice. How yummy does that sound?
If you take your Java sweet, add some maple syrup or honey. Do not use sugar.
38. Pecan Pie
Source: thishealthykitchen.com
Okay, we cannot write about Thanksgiving dessert and not include pecan pie on the list. We simply can’t.
This crunchy and sweet fall delight is loaded with pecan halves, cashew butter, molasses, and flaxseed.
Serve it topped with some whipped vegan cream, and your guests will name you “host of the year.”
39. Pumpkin Spice Protein Smoothie
Source: cheneetoday.com
If your Thanksgiving dinner hasn’t been too heavy, you may want to finish it off with a creamy protein smoothie. Or just have it for breakfast!
With pumpkin puree, oats, banana, and some almond milk, this is as nutritious and filling as a smoothie can be.
For the most irresistible look, serve it topped with an anise star.
Looking for more yummy treats? Check out these healthy Thanksgiving desserts.
40. Pumpkin Trifle
Source: rainbownourishments.com
Ooh, a trifle! It doesn’t get any more festive than that. Doesn’t it? The orange and brown colors and the warm pumpkin spice flavors just scream fall.
With layers of pumpkin cake, pumpkin custard pudding, whipped cream, and butterscotch sauce, this is a lick-your-fingers delicious recipe.
Serve it topped with gingersnap cookies, and everyone will be amazed.
41. Apple Crumble Tea Cake
Source: rainbownourishments.com
Apples, cinnamon, and pecans. Three of the top fall flavors you need in your desserts. And this lovely tea cake is needed on your Thanksgiving table.
With 15 minutes of prep time, one dirty bowl, and 50 minutes in the oven, this is a recipe worth saving.
A fluffy and moist cake with surprise pecan crunches inside! Yes, it tastes as satisfying as it sounds!
