Best Vegetarian Thanksgiving Dressing Recipe for Holiday Meals

Thanksgiving is a wonderful time to gather around the table with loved ones and savor the rich flavors of the season. While traditional stuffing often includes meat-based broths or sausage, this best vegetarian Thanksgiving dressing recipe offers a delicious, hearty alternative that celebrates the earthy goodness of fresh vegetables, herbs, and perfectly toasted bread cubes.

This dressing is moist, flavorful, and packed with aromatic herbs, making it a centerpiece-worthy side dish for any vegetarian or meat-eater’s holiday feast.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply looking to add a fresh twist to your Thanksgiving menu, this recipe will become a new favorite. It combines the comforting texture of classic stuffing with wholesome ingredients like mushrooms, celery, and walnuts, all tied together with a savory vegetable broth and a hint of sage and thyme.

Plus, it’s easy to prepare ahead of time, freeing you up to enjoy the festivities.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Thanksgiving dressing is more than just a side dish—it’s a celebration of fall flavors and textures. Here’s why it stands out:

• Rich and savory: The umami from mushrooms and walnuts brings depth that rivals any traditional stuffing.
• Perfectly moist: Using vegetable broth and sautéed veggies keeps the bread cubes tender without being soggy.
• Customizable: Easily adapt it with your favorite nuts, dried fruits, or fresh herbs.
• Make-ahead friendly: Prepare it in advance and bake it on the big day, saving time and stress.
• Vegetarian and crowd-pleasing: Even meat-eaters will ask for seconds thanks to its hearty flavors.

Ingredients

• 1 loaf (about 1 pound) of day-old sourdough or French bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter (or olive oil for vegan option)
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 10 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup walnuts, roughly chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 2 teaspoons fresh sage, finely chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth, preferably low sodium
• 2 large eggs (or flax eggs for vegan alternative)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1/2 cup dried cranberries or chopped apples for a touch of sweetness

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Whisk or fork (for beating eggs)
• Optional: Food processor for chopping nuts or herbs (if preferred)

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread cubes: Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Spread the bread cubes evenly on a baking sheet and toast them in the oven for about 15-20 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they are dry and lightly golden. Remove and set aside to cool.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery, cooking until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic: Stir in the sliced mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become golden brown, about 8-10 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Mix in herbs and nuts: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh parsley, sage, thyme, and walnuts. If using dried cranberries or apples, add them now for a sweet contrast.
5. Combine bread and vegetable mixture: Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Pour the sautéed vegetable and herb mixture over the bread cubes and toss gently to combine.
6. Add broth and eggs: In a separate bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth and eggs. Pour this mixture over the bread and vegetables, tossing gently until the bread is evenly moistened. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Transfer to baking dish: Lightly grease your baking dish with butter or oil. Pour the dressing mixture into the dish and spread it out evenly.
8. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the top is golden and crisp.
9. Serve warm: Let the dressing cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy the comforting flavors and textures in every bite!

Tips & Variations

For an extra crunchy topping, sprinkle chopped pecans or breadcrumbs over the dressing before the final bake.

• Make it vegan: Substitute the butter with olive oil and use flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons water per egg) instead of chicken eggs.
• Add more veggies: Incorporate diced carrots or roasted butternut squash for added color and sweetness.
• Use different bread: Cornbread cubes or whole wheat bread add unique textures and flavors.
• Herb swap: Experiment with rosemary or marjoram if you want a slightly different herbal profile.
• Advance prep: You can assemble the dressing the night before and refrigerate it. Bring it to room temperature before baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian dressing pairs beautifully with any traditional Thanksgiving spread. Serve it alongside roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a colorful fall salad.

It’s also a fantastic complement to vegetarian mains like stuffed squash or lentil loaf.

For a festive touch, garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of toasted nuts just before serving. Don’t forget to check out other delicious recipes to complete your holiday meal, like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe for a creamy pasta dish or the sweet finish of Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe.

Conclusion

Creating the perfect vegetarian Thanksgiving dressing is easier than you might think, and this recipe proves that you don’t have to sacrifice flavor or texture when opting for a meat-free option. With its blend of fresh herbs, hearty mushrooms, crunchy walnuts, and moist toasted bread cubes, this dressing is sure to be a star at your holiday table.

It’s a versatile dish that accommodates a range of dietary preferences and can be customized to suit your taste. Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or simply want to add a fresh, wholesome side to your Thanksgiving feast, this recipe offers rich, comforting flavors everyone will enjoy.

For more inspiration on holiday dishes, explore the Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe—a perfect dessert to round out your celebration!

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