Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing stories, and indulging in delicious food that warms the heart. For vegetarians and those looking to add more plant-based dishes to their holiday table, this collection of 33 vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes offers a bounty of flavors, textures, and colors to delight every palate.
From comforting mains and vibrant sides to decadent desserts, these recipes celebrate the richness of fall produce and creative cooking techniques that make Thanksgiving memorable without meat.
Whether you’re hosting a big family feast or a cozy dinner, these dishes will inspire you to craft a menu that satisfies tradition and embraces wholesome, plant-powered goodness. Dive into these recipes and discover new favorites that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
These 33 vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes are thoughtfully curated to offer something for everyone at your holiday table. They are full of seasonal ingredients like pumpkin, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, cranberries, and hearty grains.
Each recipe balances flavors beautifully, from savory herbs to subtle sweetness, ensuring your meal is both satisfying and festive.
Plus, these dishes are easy to prepare, with many make-ahead options to reduce stress on Thanksgiving Day. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply want to add more plant-based meals to your repertoire, these recipes promise vibrant colors, nourishing ingredients, and comforting tastes that will elevate your celebration.
Ingredients
- Seasonal vegetables: butternut squash, sweet potatoes, Brussels sprouts, carrots, green beans
- Grains and legumes: wild rice, quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, farro
- Herbs and spices: sage, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, nutmeg, garlic, smoked paprika
- Fruits: cranberries, apples, pears, pomegranates
- Dairy and alternatives: butter, cream, cheese, plant-based milk, nutritional yeast
- Nuts and seeds: pecans, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds
- Other pantry staples: vegetable broth, olive oil, maple syrup, soy sauce, flour, baking powder
Equipment
- Large mixing bowls
- Sharp knives and cutting boards
- Baking sheets and roasting pans
- Large skillet or sauté pan
- Slow cooker or Instant Pot (optional)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Food processor or blender (for some recipes)
- Serving platters and bowls
Instructions
- Plan your menu: Review the 33 recipes and select a balance of mains, sides, and desserts that suit your guests’ preferences.
- Shop for fresh ingredients: Prioritize seasonal produce and quality pantry staples to ensure the best flavor.
- Prep in advance: Many recipes, such as roasted vegetables and grain salads, can be made a day ahead to ease Thanksgiving day stress.
- Cook thoughtfully: Follow each recipe’s step-by-step instructions, paying attention to cooking times and seasoning.
- Assemble and garnish: Present dishes beautifully with fresh herbs, nuts, or fruit to enhance visual appeal and taste.
- Serve warm or at room temperature: Depending on the dish, serve immediately or let cool for best flavor and texture.
- Enjoy your feast: Gather around the table and savor the variety of vegetarian dishes that celebrate Thanksgiving!
Tips & Variations
“Use fresh herbs liberally to brighten dishes and add depth of flavor that elevates every bite.”
Many of these recipes can be adapted to suit dietary needs. Swap dairy for plant-based alternatives or use gluten-free grains if necessary.
For added protein, incorporate lentils, beans, or tofu into main dishes. Try roasting nuts and seeds to bring out their natural oils and crunch, perfect for salads and stuffing.
Feel free to experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin to add warmth and complexity. For a unique twist on traditional dishes, check out our Bread And Gravy Recipe for a vegetarian gravy option that’s rich and satisfying.
Nutrition Facts
Recipe Type | Calories (per serving) | Protein | Carbohydrates | Fat | Fiber |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Stuffed Acorn Squash | 280 | 8g | 45g | 7g | 6g |
Wild Rice Pilaf | 250 | 6g | 50g | 4g | 5g |
Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts | 150 | 4g | 20g | 5g | 7g |
Sweet Potato Casserole | 320 | 5g | 60g | 8g | 8g |
Serving Suggestions
Pair these vegetarian dishes with fresh, warm bread or rolls to soak up delicious sauces and gravies. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing balance to the richness of some recipes.
Complement the meal with seasonal beverages like spiced apple cider or a sparkling cranberry cocktail for a festive touch. For dessert, explore creative options such as pumpkin pie, apple crisp, or our favorite vegan-friendly treats linked below.
33 Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes List
- 1. Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Cranberries – A colorful, hearty main featuring nutty wild rice and tart cranberries.
- 2. Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts – Crispy, caramelized sprouts with a hint of sweetness.
- 3. Creamy Butternut Squash Soup – Silky soup spiced with warming cinnamon and nutmeg.
- 4. Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Topping – Classic comfort food with crunchy, buttery pecans.
- 5. Mushroom and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie – A savory, filling pie topped with fluffy mashed potatoes.
- 6. Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables – A light yet satisfying side packed with nutrients.
- 7. Green Bean Almondine – Tender green beans sautĂ©ed with garlic and toasted almonds.
- 8. Cranberry Walnut Relish – A fresh, tangy condiment to brighten any dish.
- 9. Roasted Carrots with Honey and Thyme – Sweet and aromatic roasted roots.
- 10. Vegan Mushroom Gravy – Rich and savory, perfect over mashed potatoes or stuffing.
- 11. Pumpkin Risotto with Sage – Creamy risotto infused with seasonal flavors.
- 12. Baked Mac and Cheese with Cauliflower – A veggie-packed twist on a comforting classic.
- 13. Roasted Beet and Orange Salad – Earthy beets paired with bright citrus.
- 14. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Smooth, fluffy potatoes with roasted garlic.
- 15. Stuffed Mushrooms with Spinach and Cheese – Bite-sized starters full of flavor.
- 16. Vegan Cornbread – Sweet, moist cornbread without eggs or dairy.
- 17. Harvest Grain Salad with Apples and Pecans – A delightful mix of textures and tastes.
- 18. Roasted Parsnips and Caramelized Onions – Sweet and savory root vegetables.
- 19. Butternut Squash and Sage Lasagna – Layers of creamy squash and aromatic herbs.
- 20. Pumpkin Pie with Cashew Cream – A dairy-free dessert that’s silky and satisfying.
- 21. Spiced Apple Cider – Warm and fragrant, perfect to sip alongside your meal.
- 22. Vegan Stuffing with Sausage and Cranberries – Hearty, flavorful, and completely plant-based.
- 23. Roasted Cauliflower Steaks with Herb Sauce – A stunning and tasty centerpiece.
- 24. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Chili – A spicy, filling bowl of comfort.
- 25. Butternut Squash and Kale Salad – Nutritious with a hint of sweetness.
- 26. Pumpkin Hummus – A seasonal twist on a classic dip.
- 27. Vegan Cranberry Sauce – Simple, sweet, and tangy with fresh cranberries.
- 28. Roasted Garlic and Herb Mashed Cauliflower – A low-carb alternative to mashed potatoes.
- 29. Pear and Walnut Salad with Maple Dressing – Crisp, nutty, and lightly sweetened.
- 30. Vegan Sweet Potato Pie – A crowd-pleasing plant-based dessert.
- 31. Brussels Sprouts Slaw with Tahini Dressing – Crunchy and creamy with a touch of zest.
- 32. Harvest Vegetable Stir Fry – Quick, colorful, and packed with flavor. Inspired by our Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes.
- 33. Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts – Moist, spiced bread perfect for breakfast or dessert. Try it with our Bread Machine Yeast Free Recipes for a similar baking twist.
Conclusion
Crafting a vegetarian Thanksgiving menu doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. With these 33 delicious and hearty recipes, you can celebrate the season’s bounty in vibrant, creative ways that will impress vegetarians and omnivores alike.
From savory mains packed with grains and mushrooms to sweet, spiced desserts, there’s something here for every taste and occasion.
Remember, the heart of Thanksgiving is sharing a meal with those you love, and these dishes help bring warmth, comfort, and joy to your table. For more inspiring recipes to complement your holiday feast, check out our Breakfast Wellington Recipe or the indulgent Bordeaux Fudge Recipe.
Happy cooking and Happy Thanksgiving!
đź“– Recipe Card: 33 Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes
Description: A curated collection of 33 delicious vegetarian recipes perfect for your Thanksgiving feast. Each recipe offers wholesome, flavorful dishes to delight your guests.
Prep Time: PT45M
Cook Time: PT1H30M
Total Time: PT2H15M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 1 cup quinoa
- 1/2 cup dried cranberries
- 1/2 cup chopped pecans
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Toss butternut squash with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; roast for 25 minutes.
- Cook quinoa according to package instructions; set aside.
- Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.
- Combine cooked quinoa, roasted squash, sautéed onion and garlic, cranberries, pecans, and parsley.
- Mix all ingredients well and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Serve warm or at room temperature.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 8 g | Fat: 15 g | Carbs: 45 g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “33 Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A curated collection of 33 delicious vegetarian recipes perfect for your Thanksgiving feast. Each recipe offers wholesome, flavorful dishes to delight your guests.”, “prepTime”: “PT45M”, “cookTime”: “PT1H30M”, “totalTime”: “PT2H15M”, “recipeYield”: “6 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed”, “1 cup quinoa”, “1/2 cup dried cranberries”, “1/2 cup chopped pecans”, “1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped”, “2 tablespoons olive oil”, “1 teaspoon ground cinnamon”, “1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg”, “Salt to taste”, “Black pepper to taste”, “1 medium onion, diced”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Preheat oven to 400\u00b0F (200\u00b0C).”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Toss butternut squash with olive oil, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper; roast for 25 minutes.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Cook quinoa according to package instructions; set aside.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Saut\u00e9 onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Combine cooked quinoa, roasted squash, saut\u00e9ed onion and garlic, cranberries, pecans, and parsley.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Mix all ingredients well and adjust seasoning if needed.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Serve warm or at room temperature.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “350 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “8 g”, “fatContent”: “15 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “45 g”}}