Classic Vegetarian Thanksgiving Side Recipes for Every Table

Thanksgiving is a time to gather around the table with loved ones, sharing warmth, gratitude, and of course, delicious food. For vegetarians or those simply looking to add more plant-based options to their holiday spread, classic vegetarian Thanksgiving side dishes offer rich flavors, comforting textures, and vibrant colors that complement any festive meal.

From creamy mashed potatoes to savory green bean casserole and hearty stuffing, these dishes bring the heart of the season to your plate without relying on meat.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or cooking for a crowd with diverse tastes, these recipes will help you create memorable sides that everyone will enjoy. They are easy to prepare, use wholesome ingredients, and can be adapted to suit your preferences.

Plus, they pair beautifully with traditional Thanksgiving mains and desserts. Let’s dive into some timeless vegetarian favorites that will elevate your holiday feast!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These classic vegetarian Thanksgiving sides are beloved because they balance tradition with wholesome ingredients. They bring the comforting taste of the holidays without the heaviness of meat-based dishes.

Each recipe is designed to enhance your meal with fresh vegetables, herbs, and plant-based richness that everyone can savor.

From the creamy texture of mashed potatoes enhanced with garlic and herbs to the crispy topping of a green bean casserole, these dishes offer a variety of flavors and textures. They’re crowd-pleasers that accommodate vegetarian diets without sacrificing taste or presentation.

You’ll also appreciate how these recipes can be made ahead or customized to your liking.

Ingredients

• 4 cups Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup whole milk or plant-based milk
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 cup sliced mushrooms
• 1/4 cup chopped onion
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup (vegetarian)
• 1 cup crispy fried onions
• 4 cups cubed day-old bread (whole wheat or white)
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 1/4 cup chopped celery
• 1/4 cup chopped carrot
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

• Large pot for boiling potatoes
• Medium saucepan for sautéing vegetables
• Mixing bowls
• Masher or electric mixer
• 9×13 inch baking dish
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Knife and cutting board
• Colander for draining green beans

Instructions

1. Prepare the mashed potatoes: In a large pot, add peeled and cubed Yukon Gold potatoes and cover with cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
2. Mash the potatoes: Add butter, milk, minced garlic, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as desired. Set aside and keep warm.
3. Blanch the green beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately transfer to ice water to stop cooking. Drain again and set aside.
4. Sauté mushrooms and onions: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook for 3 minutes until translucent. Add sliced mushrooms and cook until soft and browned, about 5 more minutes.
5. Make the green bean casserole: In a mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom mixture, blanched green beans, and condensed cream of mushroom soup. Stir gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Assemble and bake the casserole: Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle the crispy fried onions evenly over the top. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25-30 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
7. Prepare the stuffing: In a large bowl, combine cubed bread, chopped celery, chopped carrot, dried sage, dried thyme, and fresh parsley. Pour vegetable broth over the mixture and toss gently to moisten. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake the stuffing: Transfer the stuffing mixture to a greased baking dish. Cover with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the top is crisp and golden.
9. Serve and enjoy: Plate the creamy mashed potatoes alongside the green bean casserole and warm stuffing. Garnish with extra parsley if desired for color and freshness.

Tips & Variations

Tip: To save time on Thanksgiving day, you can prepare the mashed potatoes and stuffing the day before and refrigerate. Simply reheat gently before serving.

Variation: For a vegan green bean casserole, substitute the butter in mashed potatoes with vegan margarine and use a dairy-free cream of mushroom soup.

Tip: Add toasted pecans or walnuts to your stuffing for a delightful crunch and nutty flavor.

Variation: Spice up your mashed potatoes by mixing in roasted garlic or caramelized onions for extra depth.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These classic vegetarian sides pair wonderfully with a variety of main dishes. Serve alongside a hearty vegetarian loaf, roasted root vegetables, or your favorite Thanksgiving turkey alternative.

Add a fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the casserole and stuffing.

For dessert, consider something light and fruity to cleanse the palate after a satisfying meal. You might enjoy exploring other delightful recipes like the Paula Deen Red Velvet Cupcake Recipe or a refreshing Peach Balsamic Vinaigrette Recipe to dress up your salad.

Conclusion

Creating a memorable Thanksgiving meal doesn’t mean you have to compromise on flavor or tradition, even when following a vegetarian lifestyle. These classic side recipes offer the perfect blend of comfort and elegance, ensuring that your holiday table is both inviting and inclusive.

With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, you can have delicious mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and stuffing that everyone will appreciate. Whether you’re cooking for a vegetarian guest or simply want to add more plant-based dishes to your celebration, these recipes deliver satisfaction and warmth.

Don’t hesitate to customize these dishes with your favorite herbs, spices, or nuts to make them uniquely yours. For more recipe inspiration, check out the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe and the Pecan Crackers Recipe to round out your festive feast.

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