35 Must-Try Vegetarian Recipes for Thanksgiving
Vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes bring a festive array of dishes to the holiday table, all without the need for meat.
Enjoy savory stuffings, rich casseroles, and vibrant vegetable sides, each designed to offer traditional flavors in a vegetarian format.
These recipes can ensure that every guest can partake in the celebratory feast.
With such a variety of dishes below, your Thanksgiving can be both inclusive and delicious.
Corn Casserole
Corn casserole combines the sweetness of corn with a creamy texture that warms the heart.
This dish features a blend of ingredients, including buttery corn, rich cream, and hints of cheese that melt beautifully together.
Its versatility allows for variations like adding jalapeños for spice or herbs for freshness.
Perfectly baked until golden brown on top, this casserole becomes an inviting centerpiece at any gathering.
Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel
Sweet potato casserole with pecan streusel offers a twist on traditional comfort food.
The creamy texture of the sweet potatoes blends beautifully with warm spices, creating a rich and inviting base.
Topping it off, the crunchy pecan streusel adds an irresistible contrast that elevates each mouthful.
This dish shines at gatherings, where its comforting flavors can brighten any table setting.
Southern Squash Casserole
Southern squash casserole showcases tender yellow squash combined with creamy cheese, rich butter, and a crunchy topping that adds texture.
The harmonious blend of flavors creates a satisfying experience that resonates with home-cooked goodness.
Often enjoyed during family gatherings or potlucks, it invites nostalgia for shared meals and cherished moments.
Every serving offers an opportunity to savor the essence of Southern hospitality in every forkful.
Goat Cheese Mashed Potatoes
Goat cheese mashed potatoes offer a twist on a classic comfort food.
Creamy and rich, the goat cheese adds a tangy flavor that elevates the dish beyond ordinary expectations.
The smooth texture pairs beautifully with various entrees, making it an excellent side for any meal.
Fresh herbs can enhance the experience, providing bursts of color and freshness to each serving.
Enjoying these mashed potatoes can turn an everyday dinner into something memorable and satisfying.
Vegan Turkey
Vegan turkey presents a remarkable alternative for those seeking plant-based options during festive gatherings.
Crafted from wholesome ingredients like soy, seitan, and spices, it delivers a savory flavor that satisfies traditional cravings.
This dish often features an array of herbs and seasonings that mimic the comforting taste of classic roasted turkey.
Perfectly suited for holiday feasts or cozy dinners, vegan turkey can be paired with rich gravies and vibrant sides to enhance any meal experience.
Embracing this innovative option allows everyone to enjoy hearty flavors while adhering to dietary preferences without compromising on taste or texture.
Cherry Tomato Gratin
Cherry tomato gratin brings a burst of flavor to any meal.
Fresh, juicy tomatoes meld beautifully with creamy cheese and crunchy breadcrumbs, creating a contrast in textures.
The aroma wafting from the oven as it bakes is enough to make anyone's mouth water.
This dish shines as an appetizer or side, effortlessly elevating simple gatherings into memorable feasts.
Topped with fragrant herbs and spices, each serving offers warmth and comfort that feels like home-cooked goodness on your plate.
Cranberry Pecan Baked Brie
Cranberry pecan baked brie invites you to experience a delightful fusion of flavors.
The creamy cheese melts beautifully, enveloped in a sweet and tangy cranberry sauce that balances the richness perfectly.
Chopped pecans add a satisfying crunch, enhancing the texture while offering nutty undertones.
Served warm with crusty bread or crackers, this dish becomes an irresistible centerpiece for gatherings or cozy nights at home.
Green Beans Almondine
Green beans almondine offers a combination of crisp, fresh green beans and the rich crunch of toasted almonds.
This dish showcases the vibrant color and flavor of the beans, enhanced by a light sauté in butter that adds depth without overwhelming their natural taste.
A sprinkle of lemon zest introduces a refreshing brightness that balances the nuttiness beautifully.
The simplicity in preparation allows for quick assembly while still impressing at any gathering or family dinner.
Creamed Corn
Creamed corn offers a rich, comforting experience that warms the heart.
The blend of sweet corn kernels and creamy goodness creates a harmony that dances on the palate.
This dish often evokes memories of family gatherings and home-cooked meals, where flavors come together in perfect unity.
Elevating simple ingredients into something special can be achieved through just a few thoughtful touches, like adding herbs or spices for an extra kick.
Serving it alongside grilled meats or as part of a festive spread brings joy to any dining occasion.
Creamed Peas with Pearl Onions
Creamed peas with pearl onions offers a blend of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal.
The sweetness of fresh peas pairs beautifully with the tender, slightly caramelized pearl onions, creating a dish that feels both comforting and sophisticated.
A rich cream sauce envelops the vegetables, adding a luscious touch while enhancing their natural taste.
This side dish complements various main courses effortlessly, whether it’s roasted chicken or grilled fish.
Chili Maple Glazed Sweet Potatoes with Pecans
Chili maple glazed sweet potatoes with pecans deliver a contrast of flavors that excites the palate.
The sweetness of maple syrup harmonizes beautifully with the subtle heat from chili, creating a dish that’s both comforting and intriguing.
Roasted to perfection, these sweet potatoes become tender while developing caramelized edges that enhance their natural richness.
Crunchy pecans add an irresistible texture and nutty depth, making each bite satisfying.
This combination elevates any meal, inviting you to savor every moment around the table while enjoying something truly special.
Green Rice Casserole
A home-style favorite, green rice casserole wraps tender rice in a creamy sauce filled with leafy spinach and crisp green onions.
The dish is richly adorned with a blanket of melted cheese, which harmonizes perfectly with a hint of garlic and select spices.
It offers a comforting and wholesome flavor that's sure to delight.
Gather around the table to share this heartwarming dish, which promises a memorable addition to any family dinner or social gathering.
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant parmesan stacks succulent layers of eggplant with a hearty marinara sauce and stretchy mozzarella.
This beloved Italian dish demonstrates the magic of simple ingredients transformed into a deeply satisfying meal.
A sprinkle of crispy breadcrumbs introduces a delightful contrast, adding a textural pleasure to each bite.
This meal is a warm invitation to enjoy the richness of shared flavors at gatherings or intimate dinners.
Thanksgiving Kale Salad
Thanksgiving kale salad brings a fresh twist to the holiday table.
Rich in nutrients, kale serves as a hearty base, complemented by crunchy nuts and sweet dried fruits.
A zesty dressing ties everything together, balancing flavors beautifully while adding brightness to each bite.
Seasonal ingredients like roasted squash or pomegranate seeds can elevate this dish further, providing bursts of color and taste that resonate with the festive spirit.
Easy Baked Brie with Nuts and Honey
Baked brie topped with nuts and honey offers a combination of flavors that tantalizes the taste buds.
The creamy texture of the cheese contrasts beautifully with the crunchy nuts, creating an enjoyable mouthfeel.
Drizzling honey adds a touch of sweetness, elevating this dish to new heights.
Preparing it requires minimal effort, making it an excellent choice for gatherings or cozy nights at home.
This indulgent treat can easily become a favorite appetizer that impresses everyone at your table.
Creamy Vegetable Risotto
Creamy vegetable risotto invites a comforting experience with its rich texture and vibrant flavors.
Arborio rice, known for its creamy consistency, absorbs the essence of fresh vegetables and broth beautifully.
Seasonal ingredients like zucchini, peas, and bell peppers add color while providing essential nutrients.
A hint of parmesan cheese elevates the dish further with a savory depth that balances perfectly against the freshness of herbs like basil or parsley.
Biscuit & Vegetable Pot Pie
Biscuit and vegetable pot pie combines comforting flavors with a hearty texture that warms the soul.
Fresh vegetables mingle in a rich, savory sauce, bringing together seasonal ingredients for an inviting experience.
Topped with fluffy biscuits, this dish creates a contrast between the creamy filling and the light pastry.
Each serving promises satisfaction while offering a nourishing option that appeals to both vegetarians and meat lovers.
Spinach Mushroom Pasta Bake
Spinach mushroom pasta bake combines comforting flavors and textures that warm the heart.
This dish features tender pasta enveloped in a creamy sauce, enriched with earthy mushrooms and vibrant spinach.
The harmonious blend of cheeses creates a golden crust that invites you to dig in.
With each forkful, you'll appreciate how the ingredients meld together beautifully, offering both nourishment and satisfaction.
Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash
Vegetarian stuffed acorn squash dish is filled with a savory blend of quinoa, cranberries, nuts, and spices.
Thus, this dish balances rich flavors with wholesome ingredients.
The vibrant colors of the squash create an inviting presentation that catches the eye immediately.
Roasting enhances its natural sweetness while providing a tender texture that complements the hearty filling perfectly.
Mushroom Wellington
Mushroom Wellington captures the essence of comfort food with a gourmet twist.
This dish features a flaky pastry enveloping a rich filling of sautéed mushrooms, herbs, and spices that harmonize beautifully.
A hint of garlic and shallots elevates the flavor profile, while fresh thyme adds an aromatic touch that lingers in every bite.
Served alongside seasonal vegetables or a vibrant salad, it becomes an inviting centerpiece for any gathering.
Stuffed Shells with Spinach Cream
Stuffed shells with spinach cream offer a combination of flavors and textures that can brighten any meal.
Plump pasta shells cradle a rich filling, blending creamy cheese with fresh spinach for a satisfying bite.
The luscious sauce envelops the dish, adding an extra layer of indulgence while enhancing the overall experience.
Each serving presents an inviting appeal, perfect for cozy dinners or casual gatherings where comfort food reigns supreme.
With every forkful, this dish invites you to savor its warmth and richness in each moment shared around the table.
Vegetarian Lasagna
Vegetarian lasagna offers a twist on a classic dish, showcasing layers of fresh vegetables and rich flavors.
Spinach, zucchini, and mushrooms harmonize beautifully with creamy ricotta and tangy marinara sauce.
Each forkful delivers a satisfying combination of textures that can please even the most discerning palate.
This meal caters to both vegetarians and those looking to reduce meat consumption without sacrificing taste or heartiness.
Enjoying it with friends turns any gathering into an inviting feast filled with warmth and connection.
Butternut Squash Ravioli with Brown Butter Sauce and Pecans
Butternut squash ravioli has the nutty flavor of the filling paired beautifully with a brown butter sauce.
It adds depth and a hint of sweetness.
Toasted pecans introduce a crunch, enhancing the overall texture with each forkful.
Fresh herbs can elevate this dish further, providing aromatic notes that balance the savory elements perfectly.
This combination invites you to savor every moment while enjoying an elegant yet approachable meal that's sure to impress anyone who joins you at your dining table.
Hasselback Butternut Squash
Hasselback butternut squash presents a twist on traditional vegetable dishes.
Its beautifully sliced exterior allows for an even roast, enhancing the natural sweetness of the squash while creating a stunning visual appeal.
Each slice becomes infused with flavors from herbs, spices, or drizzles of olive oil that seep into every crevice.
The texture strikes a balance between tender and slightly crispy edges, offering an enjoyable contrast in each bite.
This dish not only elevates your dinner table but also invites curiosity and excitement around seasonal cooking.
Veggie-Loaded Vegetarian Stuffing
Veggie-loaded vegetarian stuffing bursts with flavor and nutrition, inviting everyone to savor its wholesome goodness.
Fresh vegetables mingle harmoniously with aromatic herbs, creating a rich tapestry of taste that elevates any meal.
A blend of textures adds an exciting crunch, ensuring each forkful is satisfying and hearty.
This dish serves as a wonderful centerpiece for gatherings or cozy family dinners, appealing to both vegetarians and meat lovers.
With its vibrant colors and enticing aroma wafting through the kitchen, it’s impossible not to feel drawn in by this comforting classic that warms the heart.
Vegetarian Shepherds Pie
Vegetarian shepherd's pie offers a hearty twist on a classic comfort dish.
Layers of rich, savory vegetables blend seamlessly with creamy mashed potatoes, creating a satisfying meal that warms the soul.
The use of lentils or chickpeas adds protein and texture, making every forkful both nutritious and filling.
Fresh herbs enhance the flavor profile, bringing brightness to each bite while colorful veggies add visual appeal to your plate.
Maple Roasted Carrots
Maple roasted carrots offer a balance of sweetness and earthiness that elevates any meal.
The natural sugars in the carrots caramelize beautifully, creating a glossy finish that tempts the taste buds.
A drizzle of pure maple syrup enhances their flavor while adding a touch of warmth to each bite.
This dish pairs wonderfully with savory proteins or can shine as an enticing side at gatherings.
You might find yourself savoring these vibrant vegetables long after dinner is over, as they bring comfort and satisfaction to your table.
Vegetable Casserole
A vegetable casserole is layers of fresh vegetables blend harmoniously with creamy sauces and a crispy topping, creating a satisfying dish that appeals to everyone.
This recipe allows for creativity; you can mix seasonal produce or add your favorite herbs for an extra kick.
The golden crust adds texture, while the tender veggies provide essential nutrients without sacrificing flavor.
Stuffed Butternut Squash
Stuffed butternut squash offers a warm embrace of flavors and textures that can elevate any meal.
The natural sweetness of the squash pairs beautifully with savory ingredients like quinoa, cranberries, and nuts.
Each serving provides a wholesome balance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking nutritious options without sacrificing taste.
Roasting brings out the rich caramelization in the squash while infusing your kitchen with inviting aromas that entice everyone nearby.
Cauliflower Steak with Walnut-Kale Pesto
Cauliflower steak brings a hearty, satisfying twist to plant-based meals.
Thick slices of cauliflower are grilled or roasted until they develop a rich, caramelized flavor that elevates any dining experience.
Paired with walnut-kale pesto, this dish introduces an earthy depth and nutty richness that complements the cauliflower beautifully.
The vibrant green sauce not only enhances the visual appeal but also packs in nutrients like vitamins A and C from kale along with healthy fats from walnuts.
Sweet Potato Kale Galette
Sweet potato kale galette offers a combination of flavors and textures that makes it a standout dish.
The earthy sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes pairs beautifully with the robust, slightly bitter notes of sautéed kale.
A flaky, golden crust envelops this savory filling, providing a satisfying crunch in every bite.
Fresh herbs and spices elevate the taste profile, adding depth without overwhelming the palate.
This versatile dish can serve as an impressive centerpiece for gatherings or as a comforting weeknight meal that warms your heart and home.
Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Stuffed portobello mushrooms present a great culinary experience, where earthy flavors meet savory fillings.
These hearty caps serve as an excellent canvas for various ingredients, allowing creativity to shine through in the kitchen.
Filled with creamy cheeses, fresh herbs, or grains like quinoa and rice, each combination brings a new taste sensation to the table.
With their rich texture and robust flavor profile, stuffed portobello mushrooms will not disappoint you.
Roasted Pumpkin Soup
Roasted pumpkin soup offers a warm embrace on chilly days.
The rich, creamy texture blends beautifully with the natural sweetness of roasted pumpkin, creating a comforting dish that feels like home.
A hint of nutmeg and cinnamon adds depth, elevating each spoonful to new heights.
Fresh herbs can brighten the flavors while crunchy toppings provide an enjoyable contrast in texture.
This soup invites you to savor every moment as it warms both body and soul during those cozy evenings at home.
4 Cheese Roasted Garlic Alfredo Stuffed Spaghetti
Indulging in a dish like 4 cheese roasted garlic alfredo stuffed spaghetti brings comfort to the table.
This culinary creation features a creamy blend of cheeses that melt seamlessly, enhancing every forkful with rich flavor.
Roasted garlic adds depth, infusing the pasta with an aromatic essence that tantalizes the senses.
Each strand is generously filled, ensuring a surprise awaits at every turn.
Pumpkin Pie
Pumpkin pie captures the essence of autumn with its rich, spiced filling nestled in a flaky crust.
The combination of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves creates a warm aroma that instantly evokes memories of family gatherings and festive celebrations.
Each slice offers a smooth texture that balances sweetness with just the right amount of spice.
Topped with whipped cream or served alongside vanilla ice cream, this dessert elevates any meal into something special.
Truc Tran (Kris)
Expertise
Home Cooking, Meal Planning, Recipe Development, Baking and Pastry, Food Editor, Cooking-video Maker, Asian Food Content Creator, Vietnamese Food Evaluation Expert
Education
Program: Diploma of Hospitality (Commercial Cookery)
Focus: The culinary program included a Certificate III in Commercial Cookery, a Certificate IV in Kitchen Management, and a Diploma of Hospitality Management. This education provided a comprehensive blend of theoretical and practical training in finance, sustainability, diversity, and human resources management.
Program: Culinary Arts at Kendall College (Australia Branch in Sydney)
Focus: Explored global cuisines, and developed entrepreneurial abilities to manage a successful food business, along with acquiring essential language, math, computer, and communication skills for success.
Program: Certificate of Vietnamese Cuisine Head Chef
Focus: Master traditional and modern Vietnamese cooking techniques.
Truc Tran, or Kris, is an accomplished food editor with extensive training in hospitality and culinary arts, including a deep focus on Vietnamese cuisine from various prestigious institutions. She possesses over nine years of experience, developing her expertise in global cuisines and blending traditional Vietnamese cooking with contemporary trends to create engaging and educational content.
She also has a rich educational background, including a Diploma of Hospitality from TasTAFE and a Bachelor of Arts in Culinary Arts from Kendall College’s Sydney branch. It enables her to offer unique insights into meal planning, recipe development, and food culture, making her articles and cooking videos both informative and appealing.