Best Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes - Top 10 Feast without the Meat
by B Kishwar
Updated Oct 16, 2023
Top 10 Best Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes
1
Stuffed Butternut Squash
2
Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi
3
Sweet Potato Gratin
4
Mashed Potato Casserole
5
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
6
Easy Cranberry Stuffing
7
Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots
8
Brown Sugar BBQ Whole Roasted Cauliflower
9
Vegan Shepherd's Pie
10
Baked Pumpkin Risotto
S. No
Best Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes
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Best Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes
Looking to add a delicious and wholesome twist to your Thanksgiving feast? Discover the best vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes that will satisfy your taste buds and impress your guests with a bountiful spread of meatless delights. From hearty mains to delectable sides and scrumptious desserts, these recipes offer a delightful fusion of flavors and seasonal ingredients, making it easy to celebrate gratitude and togetherness with a delectable, plant-based feast.
1. Stuffed Butternut Squash
Stuffed Butternut Squash is a quintessential Thanksgiving dish that embodies the flavors of fall. To prepare this dish, you start with a whole butternut squash, which is halved, seeds removed, and roasted until tender. The cavity of the squash halves is then filled with a flavorful stuffing. The stuffing typically includes a mixture of sautéed vegetables, herbs, spices, and sometimes nuts or dried fruits for added texture and complexity.
Common ingredients for the stuffing are onions, celery, garlic, fresh herbs like sage and thyme, and bread or grains like quinoa or wild rice. Once the squash is filled, it's baked until the stuffing is golden brown and the butternut squash is perfectly tender. The result is a visually stunning and mouthwatering centerpiece for your vegetarian Thanksgiving table. The contrast of the sweet and nutty butternut squash with the savory, aromatic stuffing is sure to please even the most discerning palates.
2. Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi
Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi is a delightful autumn-inspired pasta dish that combines the earthy sweetness of pumpkin with the savory richness of sage. The star of this recipe is the pillowy, homemade gnocchi made with pumpkin puree, flour, and a touch of nutmeg, creating a lovely orange hue. The gnocchi is boiled briefly, then sautéed in a butter and sage sauce until they develop a crispy, golden exterior, offering a perfect blend of textures.
The sage-infused butter sauce not only adds a burst of aromatic flavor but also provides a delightful contrast to the soft and tender gnocchi. This dish is often finished with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and maybe some toasted pine nuts for extra depth. It's a comforting, hearty dish that embodies the essence of the season and is guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser on your Thanksgiving menu.
3. Sweet Potato Gratin
Sweet Potato Gratin is a sumptuous and indulgent side dish that elevates the humble sweet potato into a creamy and cheesy masterpiece. To create this dish, sweet potatoes are thinly sliced into rounds and layered in a baking dish, alternating with a luscious blend of cream, butter, garlic, and your choice of herbs, like rosemary or thyme. The layers of sweet potatoes soak up the flavorful cream mixture as they bake in the oven, resulting in a soft, tender interior with a crispy, golden-brown top.
This gratin is often finished with a generous sprinkling of cheese, typically Gruyère or Parmesan, which forms a deliciously gooey and browned crust when baked. The combination of sweet, savory, and cheesy elements makes this dish a comforting and decadent addition to your vegetarian Thanksgiving spread, perfect for savoring on a crisp autumn evening.
4. Mashed Potato Casserole
Mashed Potato Casserole is the ultimate comfort food and a must-have for any Thanksgiving spread. This delectable dish takes traditional mashed potatoes to a whole new level. Start by preparing a generous batch of creamy mashed potatoes, using butter, milk, and seasonings to create the perfect velvety texture. What makes this dish special is the additional layers of flavor and texture. Once you've whipped up your mashed potatoes, spread them in a casserole dish and top them with a layer of shredded cheese – cheddar or Gruyere work wonderfully. Bake the casserole until the top is golden and the cheese is bubbling. The result is a mouthwatering combination of creamy, cheesy, and slightly crispy potatoes that will leave your guests raving.
The beauty of a Mashed Potato Casserole is its versatility. You can customize it with various toppings like crispy bacon bits, chopped chives, or even a drizzle of truffle oil for an extra layer of luxury. For a vegan twist, use plant-based butter and milk and consider dairy-free cheese for the topping. This dish is not only delicious but also convenient, as you can prepare it in advance and pop it in the oven just before serving. Whether you're a fan of classic comfort food or seeking to add a twist to your Thanksgiving menu, Mashed Potato Casserole is a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
5, Parmesan Roasted Green Beans
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans offer a delightful and healthy side dish option that brings a burst of flavor to your Thanksgiving table. This dish combines the vibrant freshness of green beans with the richness of Parmesan cheese, creating a mouthwatering combination. To prepare, simply toss fresh green beans with olive oil, garlic, and a generous sprinkling of grated Parmesan cheese. Roast them in the oven until they're tender with a slight crispness, and the cheese turns golden and slightly crispy. The result is a delightful medley of savory, garlicky, and cheesy flavors that will please even the most discerning palates.
Parmesan Roasted Green Beans are not only delicious but also a healthy and easy addition to your Thanksgiving feast. This dish offers a lighter alternative to some of the more indulgent sides, making it perfect for those who want to balance their holiday meal with some nutritious options. Plus, it's a breeze to prepare, taking only a few minutes to toss together before they bake in the oven. The natural sweetness of the green beans pairs perfectly with the savory umami of the Parmesan, creating a harmonious blend that's sure to become a family favorite. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a novice in the kitchen, this dish will be a hit on your Thanksgiving table.
6. Easy Cranberry Stuffing
This Easy Cranberry Stuffing is a delightful twist on the classic Thanksgiving side dish, perfect for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. This stuffing combines the savory flavors of herbs, onions, and celery with the sweet and tart notes of cranberries. To prepare, start by sautéing onions and celery in butter until they become tender and aromatic. Then, mix in breadcrumbs, dried cranberries, and a blend of aromatic herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary.
You can customize this stuffing to your taste by adding chopped nuts, such as pecans or walnuts, for some extra crunch. For a moist and flavorful stuffing, you can use vegetable broth as a binding agent. The result is a harmonious balance of savory and sweet that's guaranteed to be a hit on your Thanksgiving table.
7. Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots
These Garlic-Parmesan Roasted Carrots are a delectable and visually appealing side dish that will complement any Thanksgiving spread. To prepare, start by cleaning and peeling the carrots, then tossing them with olive oil, minced garlic, and fresh or dried thyme. Roast them in the oven until they're tender and caramelized, bringing out the carrots' natural sweetness. Once they're out of the oven, sprinkle generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with chopped parsley for a burst of color and additional flavor.
The roasted carrots take on a delightful combination of sweet and savory notes, with the garlic adding a depth of flavor, while the Parmesan adds a rich and creamy touch. These carrots make a stunning and flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with your Thanksgiving turkey or any other main course you prefer.
8. Brown Sugar BBQ Whole Roasted Cauliflower
The Brown Sugar BBQ Whole Roasted Cauliflower is an impressive vegetarian main course that can take center stage at your Thanksgiving dinner. This dish features a whole cauliflower head, roasted to perfection with a sweet and smoky brown sugar barbecue glaze. To make this show-stopping dish, you'll first steam or parboil the cauliflower to ensure it's tender on the inside. Afterward, you'll coat it generously with a mixture of brown sugar, barbecue sauce, and spices.
Roast the cauliflower until it's golden and caramelized, and the flavors have melded together. The result is a mouthwatering centerpiece with a satisfying mix of sweet and savory flavors that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds. It's a true testament to how vegetables can take the spotlight during the Thanksgiving feast while satisfying both vegetarians and meat-eaters.
9. Vegan Shepherd's Pie
Vegan Shepherd's Pie is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food, providing all the warmth and richness of the traditional dish without any animal products. The base of this dish typically consists of a savory mixture of vegetables like carrots, peas, and onions, simmered in a rich and flavorful vegan gravy. Instead of traditional ground meat, many recipes use lentils or mushrooms to create a hearty and meaty texture. To top it all off, a layer of creamy mashed potatoes, often made with dairy-free alternatives like almond or soy milk, adds a comforting and indulgent finish. The pie is then baked until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy. The result is a hearty, satisfying, and wholesome dish that's perfect for a vegan Thanksgiving or any occasion.
One of the great aspects of Vegan Shepherd's Pie is its versatility. You can experiment with different types of vegetables and seasonings to suit your preferences. It's also an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables, making it an eco-friendly and budget-friendly choice for the holiday table. Whether you're a lifelong vegan or simply looking to try something new and delicious, this dish is sure to be a hit at your Thanksgiving gathering.
10. Baked Pumpkin Risotto
Baked Pumpkin Risotto is a luxurious and comforting dish that brings the flavors of fall right to your Thanksgiving table. Traditional risotto is known for its creamy texture, achieved through slow-cooking Arborio rice in a flavorful broth. In this vegan and vegetarian version, roasted pumpkin or butternut squash is incorporated to infuse the dish with a deliciously earthy sweetness and a beautiful autumn hue. Additional ingredients like shallots, garlic, and fresh herbs contribute to the complex flavor profile. Unlike stovetop risotto, this baked version simplifies the cooking process while ensuring consistent results.
One of the outstanding features of Baked Pumpkin Risotto is that it's an excellent make-ahead dish. Prepare it in advance, and when your guests arrive, simply reheat it in the oven for a few minutes, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your Thanksgiving meal. The pumpkin's natural sweetness and the creamy rice are complemented by a variety of optional toppings, such as toasted pumpkin seeds, vegan Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, which add texture and additional layers of flavor. This dish is sure to become a seasonal favorite, evoking the warmth and richness of autumn with every bite.
What Are Some Vegan-Friendly Thanksgiving Desserts?
Vegan-friendly Thanksgiving desserts are a delightful way to end your holiday meal on a sweet note while accommodating the dietary preferences of vegans. Here are some mouthwatering options for vegan Thanksgiving desserts:
1. Vegan Pumpkin Pie:
Vegan pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert made dairy-free by replacing traditional milk and eggs with plant-based alternatives such as coconut milk or silken tofu. The filling combines pumpkin puree, spices, and a sweetener of your choice, all nestled in a vegan pie crust. It retains the iconic pumpkin pie flavor and texture while being entirely plant-based.
2. Vegan Apple Crisp:
Vegan apple crisp is a comforting and easy-to-make dessert. It features sliced apples baked with a crumbly, vegan-friendly topping made from oats, flour, sugar, and plant-based butter or coconut oil. You can add warm spices like cinnamon and nutmeg for extra flavor. Serve it with vegan vanilla ice cream for an extra treat.
3. Vegan Chocolate Mousse:
Silky and rich vegan chocolate mousse can be created by blending avocados, cocoa powder, sweetener, and a touch of vanilla. The result is a creamy and indulgent dessert that will satisfy any chocolate lover's cravings. Garnish with fresh berries or coconut whipped cream for added flair.
4. Vegan Pecan Pie:
Vegan pecan pie retains all the lusciousness of the traditional version by using corn syrup or maple syrup, along with a vegan butter substitute and flaxseed or chia seed gel to bind the filling. Pecans, spices, and a flaky vegan pie crust complete this delectable dessert.
5. Vegan Cheesecake:
Vegan cheesecakes are made using cashews or silken tofu as a creamy base. They can be flavored with ingredients like lemon, berries, or chocolate to create a range of flavors. A nut-based or cookie crust pairs well with the smooth vegan cheesecake filling, and it can be sweetened with maple syrup or agave nectar.
6. Vegan Fruit Tart:
A vegan fruit tart is a visually appealing dessert that combines a shortcrust pastry, vegan pastry cream (typically made with coconut milk or almond milk), and a colorful array of fresh fruits. The result is a beautiful and refreshing dessert that's perfect for a lighter ending to your Thanksgiving meal.
7. Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake:
Vegan pumpkin cheesecake combines the flavors of a classic pumpkin pie with the creaminess of a cheesecake. Made with a combination of pumpkin puree, vegan cream cheese, and spices, it's typically set on a graham cracker or nut crust. It's a decadent and satisfying dessert option.
These vegan-friendly Thanksgiving desserts not only cater to plant-based diets but are also delicious enough to be enjoyed by all your Thanksgiving guests, regardless of their dietary preferences. They prove that you can have a sweet and satisfying Thanksgiving feast without compromising on flavor or tradition.
Best Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes - FAQs
Vegan Shepherd's Pie is a plant-based take on the classic comfort food. Instead of meat, it typically features lentils or mushrooms for a meaty texture, while vegetables are simmered in vegan gravy. Mashed potatoes made with dairy-free alternatives crown the dish, offering a satisfying and indulgent finish.
Absolutely! You can experiment with various vegetables and seasonings to tailor the dish to your liking. It's a flexible recipe that allows you to get creative with ingredients, making it suitable for vegans and non-vegans alike.
Baked Pumpkin Risotto is a luxurious dish that brings the flavors of fall to your table. It combines the creamy texture of traditional risotto with roasted pumpkin or butternut squash for a sweet and earthy flavor. This dish simplifies the cooking process, is easy to make ahead, and offers a beautiful, comforting taste of autumn.
Yes, you can! Baked Pumpkin Risotto is an excellent make-ahead dish. Prepare it in advance, and when your guests arrive, reheat it in the oven for a few minutes. This allows you to focus on other aspects of your Thanksgiving meal while still serving a delectable dish.
To elevate the taste and texture of Baked Pumpkin Risotto, consider adding toppings like toasted pumpkin seeds, vegan Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil. These options provide extra layers of flavor and a delightful crunch to the dish