Growing up in vegetarian households, Thanksgiving was always a bit different for both of us. Instead of the traditional turkey feast, our families would create unique spreads full of vegetarian dishes that made the holiday special in their own way. Yet, as we both remember, the options for truly exciting, plant-based Thanksgiving meals were somewhat limited back then.
Fast forward to today, and my wife and I have embraced creating our own Thanksgiving traditions as a couple. With the rise of more vegan and plant-based ingredients and recipes, we’re now able to craft a celebration that stays true to our roots but also embraces new, vibrant flavors. From hearty vegan roasts to rich plant-based sides and creative desserts, our vegan Thanksgiving recipes are a true reflection of how far vegetarian cuisine has come—and how delicious it can be.
We love these recipes because they bring vibrant flavors and nourishing ingredients to our Thanksgiving table while honoring our vegetarian roots. Each dish is thoughtfully crafted to deliver the perfect balance of taste and texture, from hearty mains to delightful sides. Plus, they showcase just how flexible plant-based cooking can be, transforming simple ingredients into dishes that even the most devout meat-lovers will enjoy. These recipes also make it easy to share a delicious and inclusive meal with family and friends, ensuring everyone feels satisfied and included in the holiday celebration.
Join us on this flavorful journey as we share some of our favorite vegan and vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes that are sure to wow your guests and make the holiday feel extra special.
Vegan Mac and Cheese is a creamy, delicious, and comforting dish that perfectly replicates the classic mac and cheese without any dairy. Made with a rich sauce of coconut milk, nutritional yeast, and a vegan butter roux, this dish is sure to satisfy your cheesy cravings while keeping it plant-based. Whether you're vegan or just looking for a healthier alternative, this Vegan Mac and Cheese will become a staple in your kitchen.
Homemade Cranberry Sauce is a must-have for any holiday table, adding a sweet and tangy touch to festive meals. Made with fresh cranberries, a blend of white and brown sugar, and a hint of citrus, this easy recipe will elevate your Thanksgiving or Christmas spread. With a dash of cinnamon for warmth, it’s the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors that pairs beautifully with savory dishes.
French Onion Green Beans Casserole combines the classic flavors of French onion soup with tender green beans in a creamy, savory casserole. Topped with crispy fried onions, this dish is perfect for holiday gatherings, potlucks, or a comforting family dinner. Easy to prepare and full of rich flavors, this casserole will quickly become a favorite at your table.
Our Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole combines creamy, spiced sweet potatoes, a gooey layer of vegan marshmallows, and a crunchy pecan streusel topping for the ultimate holiday side dish. This dairy-free, egg-free recipe is packed with warm spices and natural sweetness, making it a perfect addition to any holiday table. Whether you’re hosting or simply want to bring a touch of comfort to your meal, this casserole is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to impress.
Mashed potatoes are a comforting and versatile side dish that everyone loves! Made with buttery Yukon Gold potatoes, garlic, and a touch of fresh herbs, this recipe is rich, creamy, and perfect for holiday dinners or weeknight meals. Whether you choose vegan or regular ingredients, you’ll end up with smooth, delicious mashed potatoes that pair beautifully with just about any main dish.
A festive Cranberry Cinnamon Whiskey Sour recipe with tart cranberry, cozy cinnamon, and smooth whiskey. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy nights in!
Discover our Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Apple and Cranberries, a perfect holiday side dish with a homemade apple cider vinegar Dijon vinaigrette, sharp cheddar, pumpkin seeds, and pomegranate seeds.
Brown Butter and Sage Pasta with Rigatoni is a simple yet rich dish that delivers deep, nutty flavors from browned butter and earthy sage. The rigatoni pasta captures the buttery sauce in its ridges, making every bite deliciously creamy and aromatic. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or an elegant date night, this pasta dish is easy to prepare but feels indulgent. Pair it with a crisp salad and a glass of white wine for a complete meal!
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Microgreens is a creamy, comforting bowl of goodness perfect for cooler days. Made with roasted butternut squash, carrots, coconut milk, and warm spices, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. The natural sweetness of butternut squash pairs beautifully with the creamy coconut milk and is topped with fresh microgreens for a burst of vibrant color and extra nutrients. It’s simple to prepare, full of rich flavors, and makes for a delightful starter or main dish.
Vegan Chili made with Impossible Vegan Protein is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. Packed with plant-based protein and a homemade chili powder blend, this chili is rich, spicy, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you're a vegan or just looking to try something new, this chili will become a staple in your kitchen.
Inspired by the famous cookies from Levain's Bakery, Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookies offer a delicious twist on the classic treat. These cookies are crispy on the edges, chewy in the center, and packed with crunchy walnuts and rich chocolate chips. After our first bite of Levain’s legendary cookies, we were determined to recreate their magic at home.
For more great vegan and vegetarian recipes, be sure to explore the rest of our collection. From comforting soups and flavorful stir-fries to indulgent desserts and satisfying salads, we’ve got plenty of plant-based dishes to inspire your next meal. Whether you’re looking to keep things simple for a busy weeknight or impress guests with a show-stopping feast, there’s something for every occasion. Happy cooking, and let us know which recipes you try—we love hearing from you!
And if you’re looking to elevate your Thanksgiving celebration even further, don’t miss our tips for creating a stunning Thanksgiving tablescape. From elegant centerpieces to thoughtful table settings, we’ve got you covered. Check out our amazing ideas and inspiration here to make your holiday table truly unforgettable!
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