Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes Main Dish Ideas for Your Feast

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and most importantly, delicious food that brings everyone to the table. For those embracing a vegan lifestyle or simply looking to add more plant-based dishes to their holiday spread, finding a satisfying main dish can be a delightful challenge.

Fortunately, vegan Thanksgiving main dishes have come a long way from just side salads and roasted veggies. They can be hearty, flavorful, and impressive enough to star at your holiday feast.

From savory nut roasts to mushroom-based “meats,” these dishes offer comforting textures and rich flavors that even the most devoted carnivores will appreciate.

In this post, you’ll discover some of the best vegan Thanksgiving recipes for main dishes that will wow your guests without compromising on taste or tradition. Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or a curious cook, these recipes will ensure your holiday meal is memorable and delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

These vegan Thanksgiving main dishes are perfect for several reasons. First, they are made with whole, plant-based ingredients that provide a nutrient-rich, satisfying meal without the heaviness often associated with traditional holiday mains.

Secondly, these recipes balance savory, herbaceous, and umami flavors that evoke the warmth and comfort of classic Thanksgiving fare. They are designed to be easy to prepare, with clear steps that will save you time on the busy holiday day.

Plus, they cater to diverse dietary preferences, making your Thanksgiving inclusive for vegans, vegetarians, and even meat-eaters looking for a healthier alternative.

Finally, these dishes pair beautifully with traditional sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green beans, completing the holiday experience with a thoughtful and delicious centerpiece.

Ingredients

• 1 cup walnuts – for a rich, meaty texture
• 1 cup cooked lentils – adds protein and heartiness
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped – for deep umami flavor
• 1 large onion, finely diced – aromatic base
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – enhances savory notes
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if desired) – to bind and add texture
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 5 tbsp water (flax egg)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari – umami booster
• 1 tbsp tomato paste – adds richness and color
• 2 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing
• Optional: 1/4 cup cranberries or dried cherries for a festive touch

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• Food processor (optional, for chopping walnuts and mushrooms)
• Baking dish or loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Parchment paper or silicone baking mat

Instructions

1. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water and set aside for 10 minutes to thicken.
2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent.
3. Add garlic and mushrooms: Stir in the minced garlic and chopped mushrooms. Cook for another 7-10 minutes until the mushrooms release their moisture and become tender.
4. Process walnuts and lentils: In a food processor, pulse the walnuts until finely chopped but not too powdery. Add cooked lentils and pulse briefly to combine without pureeing.
5. Combine all ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the sautéed mushroom mixture, walnut-lentil blend, breadcrumbs, flax egg, soy sauce, tomato paste, fresh herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until the mixture holds together when pressed.
6. Add cranberries: If using, fold in the cranberries for a burst of color and sweetness.
7. Shape the loaf: Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or grease it lightly. Press the mixture firmly into the pan, smoothing the top.
8. Bake: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Bake the loaf for 45-50 minutes until firm and golden brown on top.
9. Cool and serve: Let the loaf cool for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Tips & Variations

For a nut-free version, substitute walnuts with pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. You can also experiment with different herbs such as sage or oregano to suit your taste.

If you prefer a more “meaty” texture, try adding finely diced smoked tofu or tempeh to the mix.

Leftovers can be sliced and pan-fried until crispy for a tasty sandwich filling the next day.

Feel free to enhance the loaf with a savory glaze made from maple syrup and Dijon mustard brushed on during the last 10 minutes of baking for a shiny, flavorful crust.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegan lentil-walnut loaf pairs beautifully with classic Thanksgiving sides like creamy mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, and tangy cranberry sauce. For a festive touch, drizzle with vegan gravy or mushroom sauce.

You can also serve it alongside a fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the loaf.

For a full vegan Thanksgiving experience, consider trying out other dishes like vegan stuffing or dairy-free mashed potatoes. If you’re curious about other plant-based delights, check out these recipes: Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious, Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes, and Slow Cooker Recipes Vegan Easy Meals for Busy Weeknight.

Other Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes Main Dish

Mushroom Wellington

A show-stopping centerpiece featuring a savory mushroom duxelles wrapped in flaky puff pastry. This dish offers a rich, umami-packed alternative to traditional turkey.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb mixed mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 sheet vegan puff pastry, thawed
• 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 cup cooked chestnuts, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft.
2. Add mushrooms, thyme, salt, and pepper; cook until moisture evaporates.
3. Stir in chestnuts if using; cool the mixture.
4. Roll out puff pastry, spread Dijon mustard, then mushroom mixture.
5. Fold pastry over mixture tightly, seal edges, and brush with plant milk.
6. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 30-35 minutes until golden brown.

Stuffed Acorn Squash

This vibrant dish features halved acorn squashes filled with a spiced quinoa and vegetable medley, perfect for those looking for a lighter but festive main course.

Ingredients

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded
• 1 cup cooked quinoa
• 1/2 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup pecans, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 small carrot, diced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush squash halves with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and roast cut side down for 30 minutes.
2. In a skillet, sauté celery and carrot until tender.
3. Mix cooked quinoa, cranberries, pecans, cinnamon, and sautéed veggies.
4. Turn roasted squash cut side up and fill with quinoa mixture.
5. Return to oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

Lentil Loaf with Tomato Glaze

A comforting and hearty loaf that combines lentils, veggies, and oats, topped with a tangy tomato glaze for an irresistible finish.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 cups cooked lentils
• 1 cup rolled oats
• 1 carrot, grated
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water
• 1/4 cup ketchup
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Prepare flax egg and set aside.
3. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
4. In a large bowl, combine lentils, oats, carrot, sautéed onion and garlic, flax egg, soy sauce, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Press mixture into a greased loaf pan.
6. Spread ketchup evenly over the top.
7. Bake for 45 minutes until firm.

For more hearty vegan main dish ideas, explore the diverse Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals and the flavorful Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals.

Conclusion

Creating a vegan main dish for Thanksgiving is a wonderful way to celebrate the holiday with compassion and creativity. These recipes are more than just meat substitutes – they are thoughtfully crafted meals that honor the spirit of Thanksgiving through wholesome, vibrant ingredients.

Whether you choose a nutty lentil loaf, a decadent mushroom Wellington, or a stuffed squash, your guests will appreciate the effort and love baked into every bite.

By embracing plant-based options, you’re not only serving delicious food but also promoting sustainability and inclusivity at your table. Don’t forget to experiment with flavors and textures, and pair these mains with your favorite vegan sides for a complete feast.

For more inspiration, check out other amazing plant-based recipes like the Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves and the Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals. Happy Thanksgiving and happy cooking!

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