Vegan Thanksgiving Dressing Recipes Everyone Will Love

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and most importantly, delicious food. For those following a vegan lifestyle or simply looking to add a plant-based twist to their holiday feast, vegan Thanksgiving dressing is a must-have dish.

This comforting side combines the warm flavors of herbs, hearty vegetables, and perfectly toasted bread cubes, all without any animal products. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just trying it out this holiday, these vegan Thanksgiving dressing recipes will impress even the most traditional eaters at your table.

They’re easy to make, rich in flavor, and bring out the cozy essence of fall in every bite. Let’s dive into these mouthwatering recipes that will elevate your Thanksgiving dinner to a whole new level!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegan Thanksgiving dressing offers the perfect blend of savory, herbaceous, and slightly crunchy textures that make this dish a holiday favorite. Unlike traditional dressings loaded with butter and eggs, these recipes use wholesome plant-based ingredients that everyone can enjoy.

They’re also highly customizable, so you can add your favorite nuts, fruits, or spices to suit your taste. Best of all, these dressings pair beautifully with classic sides and mains, making the entire meal feel festive and inclusive.

If you’re passionate about comfort food that’s both compassionate and flavorful, these vegan dressings will quickly become your go-to holiday recipe.

Ingredients

• 8 cups cubed day-old artisan bread (sourdough or whole wheat recommended)
• 1/4 cup olive oil or vegan butter
• 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 stalks celery, diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, chopped (optional)
• 2 teaspoons fresh sage, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• 2 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 tablespoon nutritional yeast (optional, for umami)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup chopped walnuts or pecans (optional)
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries or raisins (optional)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Baking dish (9×13 inch works well)
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the bread cubes: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the cubed bread evenly on a baking sheet. Toast in the oven for about 10-15 minutes or until lightly golden and crisp. Remove and let cool.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil or vegan butter over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent—about 5-7 minutes. If using mushrooms, add them after the celery and cook until tender.
3. Add herbs and seasoning: Stir in sage, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes to release the herbs’ aroma.
4. Combine ingredients: Transfer the toasted bread cubes to a large mixing bowl. Add the sautéed vegetable mixture, nutritional yeast (if using), chopped nuts, dried cranberries, and fresh parsley.
5. Add broth and mix: Pour the vegetable broth gradually over the bread mixture, stirring gently until the bread is moist but not soggy. You may not need all the broth depending on the bread’s dryness.
6. Transfer to baking dish: Lightly grease your baking dish and spread the dressing mixture evenly.
7. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 30-35 minutes. The top should be golden brown and slightly crisp.
8. Serve warm: Remove from oven and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the bread with gluten-free bread cubes. You can also add sautéed apples or pears for a subtle sweetness that complements the savory herbs beautifully.

Feel free to experiment with different nuts and dried fruits. Pecans add a buttery crunch, while dried cherries bring a tart contrast.

If you like a smoky flavor, a dash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke can be added.

For a more traditional texture, try adding cooked lentils or crumbled tempeh for extra protein and heartiness. If you prefer a moister dressing, increase the vegetable broth slightly or cover with foil during baking.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan Thanksgiving dressing pairs wonderfully with classic mains like roasted vegetables, stuffed squash, or vegan lentil loaf. For a balanced meal, serve alongside mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and sautéed green beans.

If you’re looking to add more plant-based comfort to your holiday, check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes or try the hearty goodness of Chili Recipe Slow Cooker Vegetarian: Easy & Hearty Meal.

More Delicious Vegan Thanksgiving Dressing Recipes

Classic Herb and Walnut Vegan Dressing

• Use toasted walnuts for a crunchy texture
• Include fresh parsley and rosemary for a fragrant herb profile
• Top with a drizzle of vegan gravy to serve

Sweet and Savory Cranberry Pecan Dressing

• Add dried cranberries and pecans for a balance of tart and nutty flavors
• Mix in a splash of maple syrup for subtle sweetness
• Use gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs

Mushroom and Sage Vegan Dressing

• Sauté cremini or shiitake mushrooms to deepen umami flavor
• Season with fresh sage and thyme for classic Thanksgiving aroma
• Finish with a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for cheesy notes without dairy

Conclusion

Whether you’re hosting a fully vegan Thanksgiving or simply want to add a delicious plant-based side, these vegan Thanksgiving dressing recipes offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures that everyone will love.

They’re easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and perfectly capture the spirit of the holiday season. By using wholesome, natural ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that’s both nourishing and festive.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with herbs, nuts, and fruits to make the dressing uniquely yours. For more inspiring vegan recipes to complete your holiday menu, explore the fantastic Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious or try baking your own bread with the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Happy Thanksgiving and happy cooking!

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