Best Thanksgiving Vegan Recipes for a Delicious Holiday

Thanksgiving is a time of abundance, gratitude, and—let’s be honest—delicious food shared with family and friends. If you’re hosting a holiday meal or contributing to a potluck, you might wonder how to make a vegan Thanksgiving spread that feels just as festive and satisfying as the traditional feast.

The truth is, plant-based recipes can absolutely steal the show, bringing vibrant flavors, hearty textures, and creative twists to your holiday table.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add some lighter, veggie-packed options to your celebration, these best Thanksgiving vegan recipes are sure to impress even the most devoted turkey lovers.

From a show-stopping Vegan Lentil Loaf with Savory Mushroom Gravy to creamy, dreamy Garlic Mashed Cauliflower and a sweet, spiced Pumpkin Pecan Pie, you’ll find every essential here for a memorable plant-based feast.

Let’s dive in and create the ultimate cruelty-free Thanksgiving menu that everyone—including omnivores—will be thankful for!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Full of Flavor: Each recipe is crafted to deliver bold, seasonal flavors using wholesome, plant-based ingredients. You’ll never miss the meat or dairy!
• Crowd-Pleasers: These dishes are designed for sharing and guaranteed to satisfy guests of all dietary preferences. Even non-vegans will be reaching for seconds.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Many components can be prepared in advance, so you can enjoy the holiday instead of spending it all in the kitchen.
• Nourishing and Comforting: Packed with fiber, vitamins, and plant protein, these recipes offer comfort food vibes without the heaviness of traditional fare.
• Customizable: Swap ingredients to suit allergies or available produce. You can keep things gluten-free, nut-free, or oil-free as needed!

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need for the Vegan Lentil Loaf, Garlic Mashed Cauliflower, and Pumpkin Pecan Pie—the ultimate trio for your Thanksgiving table.

Vegan Lentil Loaf

Mushroom Gravy

• 1 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
• 8 oz mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp flour (all-purpose or gluten-free blend)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt & black pepper, to taste

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

• 1 large head cauliflower, cut into florets
• 3 cloves garlic, peeled
• 2 tbsp vegan butter or olive oil
• 1/2 cup unsweetened plant milk (such as almond or oat)
• Salt & pepper to taste
• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)

Pumpkin Pecan Pie (Vegan)

• 1 vegan pie crust (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 1/2 cups pumpkin puree (not pumpkin pie filling)
• 3/4 cup canned coconut milk, full fat
• 1/2 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tbsp cornstarch
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp ginger
• 1/4 tsp nutmeg
• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract
• 1/4 tsp salt
• 1/2 cup pecan halves, for topping

Equipment

• Large saucepan or Dutch oven
• Baking dish or loaf pan (for lentil loaf)
• Mixing bowls
• Food processor or potato masher
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Whisk
• Rubber spatula
• Baking sheet (for pie)
• Pie dish
• Aluminum foil or parchment paper

Instructions

Vegan Lentil Loaf

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it for easy removal.
2. Prepare the flax “egg” by mixing 2 tbsp flaxseed meal with 5 tbsp water in a small bowl. Set aside for 5 minutes to thicken.
3. In a large skillet, sauté the onion, celery, carrot, and garlic with a splash of water or a little olive oil over medium heat until softened (about 5 minutes).
4. Add cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, tomato paste, soy sauce, dried herbs, smoked paprika, and the flax egg to a large mixing bowl. Season generously with salt and pepper.
5. Mash the mixture. Use a fork, potato masher, or food processor to mix, leaving some texture. The mixture should hold together when pressed.
6. Press the mixture into your prepared loaf pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
7. Bake for 40-45 minutes, until the loaf is firm and golden on top. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing.

Mushroom Gravy

1. Heat oil or vegan butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and mushrooms, sautéing until softened and browned (about 8 minutes).
2. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Sprinkle in flour, stirring constantly to coat the mushrooms.
4. Gradually pour in vegetable broth, whisking to prevent lumps. Add soy sauce and thyme.
5. Simmer 5-8 minutes, stirring, until thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper.

Garlic Mashed Cauliflower

1. Steam cauliflower florets and garlic in a large pot with an inch of water. Cover and cook until tender (about 12-15 minutes).
2. Drain well. Transfer cauliflower and garlic to a food processor, or back to the pot to mash by hand.
3. Add vegan butter and plant milk. Blend or mash until smooth and creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper.
4. Garnish with chives or parsley if desired. Serve warm.

Pumpkin Pecan Pie

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your pie crust in a pie dish.
2. Whisk together pumpkin puree, coconut milk, sugar, maple syrup, cornstarch, spices, vanilla, and salt in a large bowl until smooth.
3. Pour filling into the crust, smoothing the top. Arrange pecan halves decoratively on top.
4. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until the center is set (it may jiggle slightly). If the crust or pecans brown too quickly, tent with foil.
5. Cool completely before slicing. For best texture, chill in the fridge for at least 2 hours.

Tips & Variations

• Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free rolled oats, tamari, and flour. Ensure store-bought crust is gluten-free, or try a homemade oat-almond crust.
• Add extra veggies: Fold sautéed mushrooms, red bell pepper, or spinach into the lentil loaf for more color and nutrients.
• Switch up the gravy: For a creamy twist, blend half the mushroom mixture before serving. Or try a vegan bechamel sauce for a different flavor profile!
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne or smoked chipotle powder to the lentil loaf or gravy for gentle heat.
• Advance Prep: Both the loaf and pie can be made a day ahead and reheated, freeing you up for the big day.

For an extra-special touch, brush the top of your lentil loaf with a little tomato paste or ketchup before baking. This gives it a gorgeous, caramelized finish!

Looking for more cozy plant-based inspiration? Don’t miss these Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker and Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals to round out your holiday table.

Nutrition Facts

These recipes are packed with fiber, protein, and essential vitamins, making them as nourishing as they are comforting. Here’s an approximate nutrition breakdown per serving for each main dish:

All recipes are naturally cholesterol-free and low in saturated fat. For lower calories, you can reduce or omit added oils and sugar as desired.

Serving Suggestions

• Plate the lentil loaf in thick slices, topped with a generous drizzle of mushroom gravy. Serve alongside a mountain of garlic mashed cauliflower for a comforting main event.
• Pair with classic sides: Add roasted Brussels sprouts, maple-glazed carrots, or even a bright cranberry-orange relish.
• For the pie, serve with coconut whipped cream or a scoop of vegan vanilla ice cream.
• Make it a feast: Try adding a hearty Low Calorie Vegetable Soup or Vegetable Alfredo Recipes as starters or additional sides.
• Leftovers: Lentil loaf slices make amazing sandwiches the next day—just add greens and a smear of cranberry sauce!

Conclusion

Creating an unforgettable Thanksgiving meal doesn’t require turkey, butter, or cream. These vegan recipes prove that plant-based holiday cooking can be both traditional and innovative, delivering all the warmth and comfort you crave—without any compromise.

Whether you’re feeding a crowd or keeping it intimate, these dishes offer flexibility, nutrition, and most of all, flavor.

Remember, the best part of Thanksgiving is sharing good food and gratitude with loved ones. With these vegan recipes, you’re making a compassionate choice that’s kinder to your body, animals, and the planet.

I hope these ideas inspire you to make new traditions and savor every bite. Happy Thanksgiving, and bon appétit!

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