There's a quote I love:

“ I can’t understand why people are frightened of new ideas. I’m frightened of the old ones.”

— John Cage

This sentiment perfectly sums up the idea of a plant-based Thanksgiving dinner. Just because Thanksgiving dinner has typically been centered around a turkey doesn’t mean it always has to be.

Even if you’re not an animal activist type, cooking a plant-based or entirely vegan Thanksgiving has perks beyond being meatless; including an amazing variety of healthy ingredients and dishes, you can create. If you’ve never done it before- you’ll be pleasantly surprised and your guests will be too.

What To Serve For Thanksgiving Besides Turkey

Here are 9 mouthwatering plant-based, vegan recipes for main dishes that will outshine traditional turkey options.

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

I can’t imagine someone eyeing this on the table and not loading it onto their plate. Described as by far the best Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole ever, this recipe from Nora Cooks is one people will never guess is vegan. Made with a crunchy butter pecan topping and a combination of sweet potatoes, coconut milk, brown sugar, vanilla, salt, cinnamon, and nutmeg this dish will impress!

Vegan Mushroom Wellington

Love portabella mushrooms or have guests that are coming who do? Here’s a perfect main course! The Vegan Mushroom Wellington recipe from Delicious Everyday features large, juicy mushrooms wrapped in a flaky puff pastry – a fun spin on the classic beef wellington.

Vegan Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups

Ultra-rich and creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Lasagna Roll-Ups from Veggies Don’t Bite is bound to knock someone’s socks off. Made with vegan ricotta and filled with protein, grains, and veggies this dish provides a unique and flavorful plant-based version of lasagna.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower

Not on the cauliflower bandwagon yet? This Whole Roasted Cauliflower recipe from Karissa’s Vegan Kitchen could be all the convincing you need. It tastes similar to a traditional pot roast but is entirely vegan and oil-free.

The Ultimate Vegan Thanksgiving Loaf With Cranberry Glaze

No one will even miss a turkey if this Ultimate Vegan Thanksgiving Loaf With Cranberry Glaze recipe by I Love Vegan is included in the spread. It has a savory-sweet contrast of the tart-but-sweet cranberry glaze over a hearty loaf that is packed with flavor and nutrient-rich ingredients including brown rice, green lentils, kale, mushrooms, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic. It fulfills every requirement of a holiday dinner main dish and pairs well with gravy and cranberry sauce.

Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash

For those who want to give off a plant-based Martha Stewart vibe, this Vegan Stuffed Acorn Squash recipe from Foolproof Living is a must! This eye-catching, vegan, stuffed acorn squash recipe is made by stuffing roasted acorn squash with a quinoa filling flavored with cranberries, and pecans.

Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Just 9 ingredients and about 1 hour from start to finish is all it takes to make this Vegan Shepherd’s Pie recipe from The Minimalist. This satisfying Shepherd’s pie is filled with hearty vegetables in a savory sauce, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and baked to bubbly perfection. Both satisfying and veggie-loaded, this is a cozy, veganized version of a traditional winter favorite that won’t disappoint.

Vegan Eggplant Bolognese and Baked Coconut Polenta

For a warm, hearty Italian-inspired main course consider this recipe for Vegan Eggplant Bolognese and Baked Coconut Polenta. Eggplant is the star of this dish, but there is a strong ensemble of other veggies like tomatoes, zucchini, and carrots, with room for any of your favorites. Also, the creamy polenta pasta-substitute makes for a healthy and comforting meal.

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese is a thing! A thing that many people at the table will likely devour. This recipe from Vegan Richa is made with creamy pumpkin sauce combined with pasta, topped with crisp sage and breadcrumbs. This recipe takes just 15 mins to put together, it’s easy to make and is flexible to your personal flavor and texture preferences. There are also options to make it gluten-free, soy-free, and oil-free.

Get Creative With Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes!

You can take the leap, and go turkey-free this Thanksgiving with any of these main course options. But even if you can’t get rid of the traditional holiday bird, you can introduce any of these dishes as an alternative choice for your health-conscious or meatless guests, or even a side dish for everyone to enjoy.

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