40 Easy Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes

Whether you're hosting a completely vegetarian Thanksgiving or simply adding a few meat-free dishes to your holiday table, these recipes will make everyone feel welcome. This collection includes cozy soup, fresh seasonal salads, hearty vegetarian mains, plenty of veggie sides, and even brunch ideas for the long weekend. Each recipe is packed with flavor and made to highlight fall's best produce, from sweet potatoes and squash to Brussels sprouts and apples.

Collage of vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes, including lentil loaf, stuffing, sweet potato casserole, and baked brie bites.

You'll find crowd-pleasing classics alongside creative twists that might just become new traditions. Many recipes are tested to be satisfying on their own, so you can mix and match for a full vegetarian spread, or pair them with your family's favorite turkey or roast. Either way, these dishes are sure to bring color, flavor, and abundance to your holiday table.

How to Use This Vegetarian Thanksgiving Guide

Think of this collection as a mix-and-match menu for your holiday table. Choose a cozy soup or salad to start, pick one or two main dishes, the fill in the rest with seasonal sides and starters. If you're hosting overnight guests, the brunch recipes make it easy to keep the celebrations going all weekend long.

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Tips for a Stress-Free Vegetarian Thanksgiving

A vegetarian holiday doesn't have to feel like something is missing, especially when the menu highlights rich flavors, hearty textures, and falls most colorful produce. To keep prep simple, many of these recipes can be made ahead or prepped the day before. If you're hosting both vegetarians and meat-eaters, consider one of two substantial mains (like a vegetable pot pie or veggie stew) alongside traditional sides everyone will enjoy.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Mains

Who says the turkey has to be the centerpiece? These vegetarian Thanksgiving main dishes are hearty, festive, and full of flavor. From rich, savory pies to seasonal stews, each recipe is designed to satisfy vegetarians and meat-eaters alike.

Savory Pies and Loaves

Hearty, comforting pies and loaves filled with vegetables, beans, or plant-based proteins for a satisfying experience.

Vegetarian lentil loaf cut into slices.

Easy Vegetarian Lentil Meatloaf

This hearty vegetarian lentil loaf makes a crowd-pleasing centerpiece for your holiday table. It's made with protein-packed lentils, sautéed veggies, and savory herbs, topped with a sweet and tangy maple-ketchup glaze. This plant-forward dish delivers all of the cozy and comforting flavors of classic meatloaf, with no meat required.

Vegetarian Pot Pie in a square baking dish with a portioned plate in the upper right corner.

Easy Vegetable Pot Pie with Chickpeas

A cozy classic made vegetarian, this pot pie features tender vegetables, hearty chickpeas, and a creamy sauce under a golden, flaky crust. A delicious holiday main that's both comforting and satisfying.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving main dish of shepherd's pie with beans, tempeh, and peas.

Vegetarian Shepherd's Pie with Beans and Tempeh

This plant-based twist on shepherd's pie layers savory tempeh and beans with a medley of vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It's hearty, wholesome, and ideal for feeding a Thanksgiving crowd.

High-Protein

Plant-based dishes packed with beans, tempeh, or tofu to keep everyone full and energized. (Find more high-protein vegetarian recipes here.)

Marinated oven baked tempeh served with rice and fresh herbs.

Baked Tempeh with Maple Herb Marinade

Tempeh takes on a festive flavor when marinated in maple syrup, fresh herbs, and tangy mustard, then baked until golden. Slice and serve as a protein-packed centerpiece or alongside your favorite holiday sides.

Thanksgiving tofu bowl with sweet potatoes, kale, and farro.

Fall Harvest Tofu Sweet Potato Bowl

Roasted sweet potatoes, baked tofu, kale, and pecans come together in this vibrant bowl. Drizzle with a simple apple cider vinaigrette for a fresh, hearty main that celebrates autumn's best produce.

A vegetarian Thanksgiving main dish with butter beans and kale.

One-Pot Butter Beans and Greens with Kale

A rustic, one-pot dish featuring tender butter beans simmered with hearty kale and a savory broth. Simple, nourishing, and satisfying enough to serve as a Thanksgiving main.

Vegetarian loaded sweet potatoes with yogurt and herb toppings.

Vegetarian Loaded Sweet Potatoes with BBQ Tempeh

A hearty and flavor-packed alternative to the usual sweet potato casserole. These BBQ tempeh-stuffed sweet potatoes work beautifully as a non-traditional dish, especially if you're feeding vegetarians or vegans. Bonus: they're easy to prep ahead of time.

Stews and Curries

Warm, saucy dishes that combine seasonal produce with legumes or spices for cozy, comforting meals.

Hands holding a wide bowl of vegetarian Irish stew with lentils and mushrooms.

Vegetarian Irish Stew with Lentils and Mushrooms

This cozy stew combines earthy mushrooms, hearty lentils, root vegetables, and herbs for deep, rich flavor. Serve with crusty bread for a warming holiday main.

Roasted Butternut Squash Coconut Curry served with rice.

Roasted Butternut Squash Curry with Lentils

For a twist on Thanksgiving flavors that still features autumn produce, this creamy curry pairs roasted butternut squash with protein-rich lentils in a fragrant coconut sauce. Warm spices add depth, making it a colorful and satisfying vegetarian centerpiece.

Seasonal Pasta Dishes

Pasta dishes are a welcome addition to the Thanksgiving spread, especially when they feature seasonal vegetables and creamy, comforting sauces.

Creamy vegetarian pasta with mushrooms, kale, and nuts.

Mushroom Kale Pasta with Creamy Almond Milk Sauce

This mushroom kale pasta is a comforting, creamy dish that makes a fantastic vegetarian (and vegan) Thanksgiving entree. The rich almond milk sauce feels decadent, while earthy mushrooms, hearty kale, and crunchy nuts bring seasonal flavor to the table. It's an elegant, plant-based pasta that pairs well with classic holiday sides like roasted vegetables and cranberry sauce.

Vegetarian orzo pasta salad with brussels sprouts

20-Minute Brussels Sprouts Orzo Pasta

For a quick, flavorful twist, tender Brussels sprouts are sautéed and tossed with orzo in a savory sauce. Ready in just 20 minutes, this versatile dish works beautifully as a warm and balanced vegetarian main dish.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Sides and Starters

Everyone knows the sides are where the magic happens at Thanksgiving. This collection brings together cozy casseroles, roasted vegetables, and festive small bites that complement any main course. Whether you're looking for a show-stopping starter of the ideal veggie side, these dishes will earn a permanent spot on your holiday menu.

Small Bites

Vegetarian appetizers that are easy to serve and crowd-pleasing.

Baked brie puff pastry bites with jam arranged on a serving dish.

Baked Brie Puff Pastry Bites with Jam

For an elegant appetizer that feels effortless, these golden puff pastry bites are filled with melty brie and a dollop of jam. They're warm, flaky, and just sweet enough to satisfy cravings before the main meal.

Holding a vegetarian-friendly charcuterie board.

Vegetarian-Friendly Charcuterie Board

Looking for a show-stopping flexitarian snack board for Thanksgiving? This charcuterie board mixes vegetarian-friendly bites, like tofu jerky and nut-based cheese spread, with fresh and dried fruits, pickled veggies, and more crunchy snacks. It's easy to assemble, colorful, and satisfying for both vegetarians and omnivores alike!

Traditional Sides

Classic holiday dishes with a vegetarian-friendly approach.

Vegetarian stuffing for Thanksgiving in a baking dish.

Vegetarian Herb Stuffing with Brown Butter and Walnuts

This Brown Butter Vegetarian Stuffing brings all the classic Thanksgiving flavor with no turkey required. Veggies and herbs are sautéed in brown butter to make every bite rich and cozy. It's easy to prep ahead, bakes up golden and crispy on the edges, and pairs beautifully with the rest of your vegetarian Thanksgiving spread.

Closeup of sweet potato casserole in a baking dish with serving spoon.

Easy Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecans

For a dairy-free twist on the holiday classic, this creamy sweet potato casserole is topped with a crisp, toasty pecan layer. It's naturally sweet and earthy, and just as delicious as the original.

Thick and creamy vegan mushroom gravy in a skillet.

Creamy Vegan Mushroom Gravy with Rosemary and Thyme

For a plant-based gravy that still delivers rich, savory flavor, this velvety sauce blends sautéed mushrooms with fresh rosemary and thyme. Great for drizzling over mashed potatoes, stuffing, or roasted vegetables.

Roasted Vegetables

Simple, caramelized vegetables (and fruits!) that highlight autumnal flavors and comforting sweetness.

Honey-roasted carrots and parsnips for Thanksgiving.

Easy Honey Roasted Carrots and Parsnips

For a simple side that lets autumn vegetables shine, tender carrots and parsnips are roasted with a light honey glaze until caramelized and golden. A sprinkle of fresh herbs and crunchy nuts finish the dish beautifully.

Maple-roasted rainbow carrots served for Thanksgiving.

Easy Roasted Rainbow Carrots with Maple Glaze

For a colorful twist on roasted carrots, this version uses a maple glaze to highlight their natural sweetness. The vibrant hues look stunning on any holiday table.

Roasted Brussels sprouts with goat cheese and walnuts for Thanksgiving.

Crispy Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Toasted Walnuts and Goat Cheese

For a savory side with a little crunch and creaminess, these roasted Brussels sprouts are paired with toasted walnuts and tangy goat cheese. A drizzle of balsamic ties everything together.

Oven roasted pie pumpkin slices on a green plate with tahini sauce and garnishes.

Easy Oven-Roasted Pumpkin with Tahini Sauce

For a non-traditional side that still feels seasonal, wedges of roasted pumpkin are drizzled with a creamy, lemony tahini sauce. It's an earthy, flavorful addition to the holiday spread.

Baked apples and pears with thyme and cinnamon for Thanksgiving.

Baked Apples and Pears with Maple and Thyme

For a sweet-savory side that doubles as a fruit-based dessert, tender baked apples and pears are infused with maple syrup and thyme. Try topping with a scoop of vanilla ice cream for dessert.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Soups and Salads

A fresh first course can set the tone for the whole meal. These soups and salads highlight autumn produce in the best ways. (Think squash, apples, pears, Brussels sprouts, and sweet corn.) They're beautiful on the table and balance out the richness of the rest of the feast.

Soups

Warm, comforting bowls that feature seasonal produce and flavorful broths.

Vegetarian mushroom French onion soup for Thanksgiving.

Vegetarian French Onion Soup with Mushrooms

For a savory twist on a classic, earthy mushrooms stand in for traditional beef, simmered with caramelized onions and topped with melty cheese. It's rich, flavorful, and ideal for a starter that feels worthy of the occasion.

Vegan minestrone stew with cubed butternut squash.

Vegetarian Butternut Squash Minestrone Soup

For a hearty soup that highlights seasonal produce, tender butternut squash joins beans, pasta, and herbs in a comforting, tomato-based broth. A simple, cozy option for warming up before the main meal.

Eating a bowl of Tuscan White Bean Soup with kale, garnished with parmesan cheese and crushed red pepper.

Tuscan White Bean Soup with Kale

For a rustic, nourishing twist, creamy white beans and hearty kale are simmered with garlic, onions, and herbs. This soup is packed with flavor and ideal for a satisfying first course.

Vegan Corn Chowder Soup topped with avocado, cilantro, and lime.

Creamy Vegan Corn Chowder with Oat Milk

For a comforting twist that still celebrates fall flavors, this creamy corn chowder uses oat milk to create a rich, velvety base. Sweet corn, tender potatoes, and warming spices make it a cozy starter for any Thanksgiving table.

Salads

Fresh, hearty or grain-based salads that balance richness and texture on the holiday table. You can also find more inspiration in my festive fall salads roundup.

Closeup of Warm Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad with kale and pomegranate.

Warm Quinoa Salad with Roasted Vegetables

For a wholesome side or starter, roasted seasonal vegetables are tossed with nutty quinoa and a delicious honey-thyme vinaigrette. Served warm, it's hearty, colorful, and full of autumnal flavor.

Festive holiday kale salad with cranberries and almonds.

Make-Ahead Kale Salad with Cranberries

For a bright, festive option, kale is massaged with a tangy dressing and studded with dried cranberries and nuts. You can make it ahead to let the flavors meld-and minimize holiday stress.

Vegetarian spelt berry grain salad with apples and kale.

Spelt Berry Salad with Apples and Balsamic Vinaigrette

For a fiber-rich twist that still feels festive, nutty spelt berries combine with crisp apples and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette. Sweet, tart, and hearty, it's a salad that doubles as a crowd-pleaser.

Shaved Brussels sprouts salad with roasted chickpeas and lemon tahini dressing.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad with Chickpeas

For a crunchy, protein-packed option, thinly shaved Brussels sprouts are paired with chickpeas and a zesty dressing. It's a vibrant, flavorful salad that balances out heavier mains beautifully.

Vegan apple coleslaw with chickpeas and lemon tahini dressing

Lemon Tahini Apple Slaw

For a tangy, seasonal side, crisp apples and shredded vegetables are tossed in creamy tahini dressing. It's refreshing, slightly sweet, and a refreshing contrast to typical rich holiday flavors.

Brussels sprouts meal prep salad.

Meal Prep Salad with Kale, Chickpeas, and Tahini Dressing

For a make-ahead twist, this hearty salad layers kale, protein-rich chickpeas, and a creamy tahini dressing. It's versatile enough to serve as a starter or refreshing holiday lunch.

Vegetarian Breakfast & Brunch Ideas for Thanksgiving

Whether you're hosting a leisurely holiday breakfast, fueling for a long day of cooking, or planning a Thanksgiving weekend get-together, these vegetarian brunch recipes bring a seasonal flair to the morning. Warm spices, savory egg bakes, and cozy flavors make each dish ideal for sharing with family and friends.

Drinks

Seasonal, nourishing beverages for a leisurely fall morning or holiday brunch.

Oat milk latte with cinnamon and winter spices.

Easy Spiced Oat Milk Latte

For a cozy, festive twist, warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom elevate creamy oat milk into a latte that feels luxurious yet approachable. Ideal for a Thanksgiving morning pick-me-up.

Pumpkin lassi spiced yogurt drink garnished with a cinnamon stick.

Pumpkin Lassi Yogurt Drink

For a seasonal twist, creamy yogurt meets pumpkin and warm spices in this refreshing, slightly tangy drink. Serve chilled with optional alcohol for a holiday-worthy brunch cocktail.

Green apple lentil smoothie in a glass and garnished with apple slices.

High-Protein Green Apple Lentil Smoothie

For a nutrient-packed twist, sweet green apple pairs with protein-rich lentils in a creamy smoothie. It's a vibrant, energizing drink that works for pre-brunch fuel or a nourishing start to the day.

Oats

Warm or overnight oat recipes that feature cozy flavors and seasonal fruits.

Festive oatmeal bowl with cinnamon-spiced apples, pomegranate, and tahini.

Cinnamon Apple Tahini Oatmeal Bowl

For a creamy, cozy twist that highlights fall flavors, oats are topped with tender apples, a swirl of tahini, and warming cinnamon. This hearty bowl makes a satisfying start to any autumn morning, Thanksgiving included.

Creamy lemon flavored oatmeal with pecans and maple syrup.

Vegan Lemon Oatmeal

For a bright, seasonal twist, this zesty oatmeal combines lemon with toasted nuts and a hint of sweetness from maple syrup. It's tangy, comforting, and a cheerful way to kick off a fall morning.

Pumpkin overnight oats in a jar.

Pumpkin Overnight Oats with Coconut Milk

For a make-ahead, festive twist, creamy coconut milk and pumpkin puree mingle with arming spices overnight. Ready to enjoy in the morning, these oats are ideal for a cozy, hands-off Thanksgiving breakfast.

Roasted apple and pear overnight oats with pecans in a glass jar.

Roasted Apple and Pear Overnight Oats

Tender roasted apples and pears are combined with oats and warming spices overnight. Ready to enjoy in the morning, this make-ahead fall breakfast is lightly sweet, comforting, and great for celebrating fall flavors without any fuss.

Egg Dishes

Savory baked egg-based dishes for feeding a vegetarian-friendly crowd on Thanksgiving morning.

Vegetarian frittata in a white cast iron skillet.

Vegetarian Frittata with Mushrooms and Goat Cheese

For a savory twist that still celebrates autumn produce, earthy mushrooms and creamy goat cheese come together in a fluffy baked frittata. This brunch-worthy centerpiece satisfies vegetarians and omnivores alike.

Holiday breakfast casserole with eggs, spinach, and sun-dried tomato.

Sun-Dried Tomato Basil Strata Breakfast Casserole

For a layered, flavorful twist, this strata combines bread, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, and eggs. Baked until golden, it's an easy make-ahead dish that wows a holiday brunch crowd.

Sandwiches

Flavorful vegetarian sandwiches that are easy to assemble for brunch guests.

Cranberry chickpea salad sandwich.

Cranberry Walnut Chickpea Salad Sandwiches

Mashed chickpeas combine with dried cranberries, walnuts, and a touch of spice. Serve on your favorite bread or in lettuce wraps for a hearty vegetarian brunch option.

Veggie hummus sandwich with roasted sweet potato open-faced on a plate.

Veggie Hummus Sandwich with Sweet Potato

For a colorful twist, roasted sweet potato and creamy hummus are layered with fresh vegetables. This versatile sandwich works for brunch or a pre-feast lunch.

Sweets

Nourishing sweet bites that complement a festive brunch spread.

Sweet Potato Energy Bars stacked on a white marble counter.

Vegan Sweet Potato Energy Bars

Sweet potatoes are blended with nuts and warming spices into portable bars that work great for brunch, snacking, or holiday road trips.

Stack of no-bake sesame date bars with chickpea flour.

Easy No-Bake Sesame Date Bars with Chickpea Flour

Dates and sesame combine with protein-rich chickpea flour into chewy, no-bake bars. They're quick to make and a cozy, autumnal addition to your brunch spread.

FAQ

What is a vegetarian substitute for turkey on Thanksgiving?

A whole roasted turkey is traditional, but vegetarians have plenty of flavorful options for Thanksgiving. For a centerpiece, try a vegetable pot pie, stuffed winter squash, root vegetable stew, or mushroom Wellington. These hearty mains pair beautifully with classic sides and still feel special for the holiday table.

What is a good vegetarian dish for Thanksgiving?

It depends on your menu and traditions! For mains, stuffed squash or savory pies work well. For sides, vegetarian-friendly stuffing, mashed potatoes with mushroom gravy, and roasted vegetables are always crowd-pleasers. You can also lean on seasonal salads and cozy soups for balance and variety.

How do vegetarians celebrate Thanksgiving?

Just like anyone else! Gathering with loved ones, expressing gratitude, and enjoying a delicious meal. A vegetarian Thanksgiving swaps out the turkey for plant-based mains and sides but still features plenty of holiday flavors and traditions. Many families enjoy reimagining classic dishes without animal products or incorporating new recipes into the holiday spread.

Final Words

A vegetarian Thanksgiving can be every bit as festive, flavorful, and satisfying as a traditional one. Thanks to the creativity that plant-based cooking inspires, you might even find you like this version more! With mains, sides, soups, salads, and brunch ideas, you can build a complete holiday menu that celebrates the season's bounty and brings everyone together at the table.

Looking for more plant-forward recipe inspiration? Get my free list of 100+ Nourishing Meal and Snack Ideas.

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