As a vegetarian host who’s tired of serving the same old sides, I stumbled upon a goldmine of vegetarian Thanksgiving mains that would make any carnivore’s mouth water.
Trust me, we’re not talking about sad tofu loaves here!
The Mushroom Wellington’s flaky crust and savory filling would make Gordon Ramsay do a double-take.
And the Persian-inspired Tahdig? Let’s just say its saffron-infused rice and crispy golden crust will leave you speechless.
Each recipe in this collection transforms humble ingredients into sophisticated centerpieces that demand attention.
No more settling for sides or explaining why you skipped the turkey.
These dishes aren’t just alternatives – they’re showstoppers in their own right.
Affiliate Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you decide to make a purchase through them – at no additional cost to you. Your support helps keep our content flowing and the site thriving.
Mushroom Wellington with Rosemary and Pecans By Feasting At Home
Credit: feastingathome.com
This Mushroom Wellington with rosemary and pecans is a holiday-ready vegan main dish that brings elegance to any table!
Featuring a savory mushroom filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry, it’s designed to be made ahead, making it a perfect low-stress choice for Thanksgiving.
Key tips for working with puff pastry include allowing it to thaw just right – overnight in the fridge, then resting briefly on the counter – to ensure it rolls smoothly without tearing.
After assembling, a quick egg (or eggless) wash creates that golden, irresistible crust.
Serve this hearty wellington with vibrant sides like roasted root vegetables or a pear and fig salad for a complete feast.
With its beautiful presentation and deeply satisfying flavor, even meat lovers will find it hard to resist.
To make this holiday favorite or explore puff pastry tips, check out the full recipe at Feasting at Home.
Tahdig With Cranberries and Herbs By Bon appetit
Credit: bonappetit.com
Elevate Your Thanksgiving Feast with Saffron-Infused Cranberry Rice Tahdig
This show-stopping Persian-inspired rice dish transforms the humble side into a stunning centerpiece that will have even traditionalists asking for seconds.
Imagine a golden, crispy rice crust (tahdig) adorned with fragrant herbs and plump cranberries – a vegetarian main that’s as visually impressive as it is delicious.
Perfect for those seeking a sophisticated alternative to standard holiday fare, this recipe marries the delicate flavor of saffron with the richness of ghee and the tartness of dried cranberries.
The technique requires patience but promises a culinary masterpiece that will impress your most discerning guests.
Craving the full recipe? Check out the complete step-by-step guide and professional tips at bonappetit.com
Pro Tip: Invest in high-quality saffron and basmati rice for the most authentic flavor experience.
Recommended Kitchen Tools:
Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto By Cookie And Kate
Credit: cookieandkate.com
Indulge in this delectable Roasted Butternut Squash Risotto, a delightful twist on a classic that even the most dedicated meat lovers will adore.
Featuring roasted butternut squash and crispy fried sage, this dish is a comforting and nutritious option for Thanksgiving.
Made with brown arborio rice, it offers a healthier alternative while requiring minimal hands-on effort – simply bake it in the oven.
The creamy texture is achieved without constant stirring, making it perfect for busy holiday kitchens.
Pair this risotto with a simple green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
To enhance the flavors, consider adding a splash of white wine or extra cheese for richness.
Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just looking for a cozy dinner, this recipe is sure to impress.
For the full roasted butternut squash risotto recipe and tips, visit Cookie and Kate’s site!
Deep Dish Quiche By 101 Cook Books
Credit: 101cookbooks.com
Forget bland vegetarian mains – this sophisticated quiche is a flavor-packed showstopper that’ll have carnivores coming back for seconds.
Featuring a perfectly flaky crust, vibrant kale, and a hint of heat from serrano chiles, this dish transforms traditional holiday fare into a culinary adventure.
The secret? A luxurious custard base made with sour cream and whole milk, elevated by Dijon mustard and crushed red pepper flakes.
A Quick Tip: Opt for high-quality ingredients like Mccormick organic pepper flakes to take your quiche from good to extraordinary. It’s perfect for those seeking a make-ahead holiday option that impresses with minimal last-minute prep.
Want to give this mouth watering thanksgiving day recipe a try? Check out the full recipe and step-by-step instructions at Original Recipe Source i.e. 101cookbooks.com
Key Information To Keep In Mind: Serves 8 | Prep Time: 1 hour | Cook Time: 1.5 hours
Vegan Stuffing Thanksgiving Recipe By Love And Lemons
Credit: loveandlemons.com
This delightful Vegan Stuffing dish beautifully combines savory flavors and wholesome ingredients.
Made with day-old ciabatta and nine-grain bread, this stuffing absorbs the rich essence of onions, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs like sage and rosemary.
The addition of balsamic vinegar and dried cranberries introduces a touch of sweetness, making it a perfect balance for any holiday table.
This recipe is an excellent choice for accommodating various dietary preferences while ensuring that everyone enjoys a hearty side dish.
It’s easy to prepare and can be made ahead of time, allowing you to focus on the main event.
Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or a refreshing salad to create a well-rounded meal.
For the complete recipe and step by step instructions to make this Vegan stuffing visit Love and Lemons.
Jiffy Corn Casserole By AllRecipes
Credit: allrecipes.com
This Jiffy Corn Casserole is a warm, nostalgic favorite that combines corn’s natural sweetness with a creamy, cheesy twist.
Originally shared by Janice Anderson, this recipe became a hit after winning an award in the Arizona Republic.
It’s unique among corn casseroles because it includes green chiles and pimentos, adding a gentle kick that balances perfectly with the creamy base.
This dish is a superb recipe for Thanksgiving, blending comfort with just enough spice to intrigue guests.
It’s also straightforward to prepare and ideal for feeding a crowd, thanks to its one-pan, oven-baked simplicity.
Layered with sour cream and cheddar cheese, each spoonful is decadently satisfying.
For the full recipe, check out Allrecipes, and make sure to pick up high-quality ingredients like Jiffy corn mix and fresh cheese for the best results.
Mushroom and Sweet Potato Galette with Herbed Ricotta and Pecan Crust
Forget everything you thought about vegetarian Thanksgiving mains being underwhelming!
This stunning Mushroom and Sweet Potato Galette with Herbed Ricotta and Pecan Crust is a game-changer that’ll have even the most devoted turkey enthusiasts reaching for seconds.
Instructions To Make This Mushroom And Sweet Potato Galette
Step 1: Pecan Crust Preparation
Pulse pecans in your food processor until finely ground followed by whisking ground pecans with flour and salt in a large bowl.
Using a pastry cutter, cut in cold butter until the mixture looks like coarse crumbs.
Add ice water one tablespoon at a time, mixing until dough forms and then shape into a disk and wrap in plastic wrap.
Refrigerate for a minimum 30 minutes (can be done up to 2 days ahead).
Step 2: Filling Preparation
Start by Preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C), this is very important.
Then, heat olive oil preferably in a large cast-iron skillet.
Saute onions until translucent (5-7 minutes) followed by adding garlic and mushrooms, cooking until mushrooms brown.
Next up, add sweet potatoes and thyme and season with salt and pepper.
Cook until sweet potatoes are tender (set aside to cool slightly)
Step 3: Herbed Ricotta
- Mix ricotta, lemon juice, and chopped parsley in a bowl
- Season with salt and pepper to taste
- Keep refrigerated until you’re ready to start using it.
Step 4: Assembly
- Roll chilled dough on a floured surface into a 12-inch circle
- Transfer to a parchment-lined baking sheet
- Spread herbed ricotta in the center, leaving a 2-inch border
- Top with mushroom-sweet potato mixture
- Fold edges over filling, creating pleats as you go
- Brush crust with egg wash or milk for shine
Step 5: Baking
This is where the preheated oven comes alive, you need to place the preparation in the preheated oven.
You’ll need to bake until the crust is golden brown (Let cool for 10 minutes before serving).
Pro Tips:
- For extra flakiness, chill the assembled galette for 15 minutes before baking
- If possible, use a pizza stone for a crispier bottom crust
- For even browning, turn the baking sheet halfway through.
- Check the bottom of the crust at 25 minutes to prevent over-browning
Storage Instructions:
- Keep leftovers for up to three days in an airtight container
- Reheat at 350°F for 10-15 minutes until warmed through
Serving Suggestions:
- Garnish with fresh thyme sprigs and toasted pecans
- Serve with a drizzle of aged balsamic reduction
- Pair with a crisp white wine
- Complement with roasted seasonal vegetables
The secret to this galette’s wow factor lies in its innovative pecan crust.
Using a high-quality food processor ensures your pecans are ground to the perfect consistency, creating a nutty, tender crust that’s leagues above traditional pastry.
Pro tip: Toast the pecans before grinding to enhance their flavor profile.
For the mushrooms, I highly recommend using a mix of varieties.
While basic cremini mushrooms work well, adding some shiitake or oyster mushrooms elevates the umami factor significantly.
A cast-iron skillet is perfect for achieving that golden-brown caramelization that brings out the mushrooms’ rich flavors.
Make-Ahead Magic:
- Prepare the dough up to 2 days ahead and store in the refrigerator
- Pre-cook the filling mixture a day before
- Assemble and bake just before serving for that fresh-from-the-oven appeal
Kitchen Success Tips:
- Keep your butter extra cold, I recommend using a premium European-style butter for the flakiest crust
- Don’t skip the 30-minute chill time for the dough
- A pizza stone in the oven helps achieve a perfectly crispy bottom crust
Serving Suggestions: Pair this galette with a crisp white wine, such as a Chardonnay or Viognier.
For a complete feast, serve alongside roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with aged balsamic vinegar and a winter citrus salad.
Green Bean and Artichoke Casserole By Martha Stewart
Credit: marthastewart.com
Martha Stewart’s Green Bean and Artichoke Casserole is a modern twist on the classic, combining tender green beans and artichoke hearts in a creamy, garlic-infused sauce topped with buttery breadcrumbs.
This 40-minute dish is perfect for cozy winter nights or holiday gatherings.
Cayenne pepper adds a gentle kick, while the breadcrumb topping creates a satisfying crunch.
It’s a straightforward yet elegant side that brings unique flavor and texture to the table.
Try pairing it with other hearty main dishes for a memorable meal. For the full recipe, head over to Martha Stewart’s website.
Curried Vegetable Lattice Pot Pie: A Thanksgiving Fusion Masterpiece By The Pioneer Woman
Credit: thepioneerwoman.com
Transport your vacation table to new heights with this beautiful fusion of conventional comfort food and fragrant Indian curry.
This vegetarian pot pie reimagines the traditional favorite with a gorgeous lattice top that almost guarantees both visual drama and scrumptious pride.
Featuring gentle butternut squash, meaty cremini mushrooms, and nutrient-rich kale in a expensive coconut milk sauce, this dish promises the hearty satisfaction meat-fanatics crave.
Get the complete recipe from The Pioneer Woman here.
Pro Tips:
- Use pre-cut butternut squash to save prep time
- Choose full-fat coconut milk for maximum creaminess
- Make ahead and reheat before serving
Essential Tools:
Perfect for: Make-ahead meals, impressing guests, introducing global flavors to traditional celebrations.
Time: 1 hour | Serves: 6-8
Vegan Thanksgiving Wraps By Minimalist Bake
Credit: minimalistbaker.com
These Vegan Thanksgiving Wraps are the ultimate 30-minute festive delight! With hearty roasted sweet potatoes, seasoned chickpeas, and a creamy garlic-dill sauce, they bring seasonal flavor and warmth to every bite.
Wrapped in soft garlic herb flatbreads, this handheld feast is perfect for those looking for a wholesome, plant-based meal that’s both convenient and packed with flavor.
Add in extras like pumpkin seeds, dried cranberries, or fresh arugula for an added twist.
Not only are these wraps deliciously satisfying, but they’re also adaptable for gluten-free needs.
Try pairing them with a cozy soup or roasted veggies for a complete holiday meal! Find the full recipe and instructions on the original source at minimalistbaker.com.
Vegetarian Tofu Chili By Spruce Eats
Credit: thespruceeats.com & Image credit: katerinabelaya / Getty Images
For a cozy, plant-powered meal, try this vegetarian tofu chili! This hearty dish combines crumbled tofu, two kinds of beans, and a flavorful mix of spices – like chili powder, cayenne, and cumin.
Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, and onions for layers of taste.
A hint of sugar and optional liquid smoke elevate the flavor even more.
Simply sauté the tofu and veggies, add seasonings and sauces, then let it all simmer to deepen the flavors.
Great for potlucks or as a make-ahead meal. For the complete recipe, visit The Spruce Eats.
Quick and Easy Vegetable Potpie By Taste Of Home
Credit: tasteofhome.com
Craving comfort food this Thanksgiving? This Quick Vegetarian Pot Pie transforms humble lentils and mixed vegetables into a showstopping main that’ll have everyone at the table asking for seconds.
The flaky, Parmesan-crusted top gives way to a rich, hearty filling seasoned with French quatre epices and Dijon mustard for an elegant twist on the classic.
Ready in under an hour, this protein-packed dish (10g per serving) is perfect for busy hosts.
Here’s a secret: Using pre-made pie crust and canned lentils saves precious holiday prep time without sacrificing flavor.
Pro tip: Upgrade your pie with this pie dish for perfect crusts every time. For the quatre epices, I love Spice House’s authentic blend – it’s a game-changer for French-inspired dishes.
Get the full recipe at Taste of Home and make this your new go-to vegetarian Thanksgiving holiday main!
Jambalaya Stuffed Peppers Casserole
Credit: wimpyvegetarian.com
Transform your Thanksgiving spread with these show-stopping Jambalaya Stuffed Red Peppers – a New Orleans-inspired vegetarian masterpiece that combines comfort food with elegant presentation.
Imagine tender red peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture of rice, beans, and vegetables, all crowned with golden cornbread and melted cheddar cheese.
The genius of this recipe lies in its smart shortcuts i.e. using Zatarain’s Jambalaya Mix as the base saves time without compromising on authentic Creole flavors.
Each pepper becomes an individual serving vessel, making it perfect for both family dinners and holiday entertaining.
Time-Saving Tips For This Jambalaya Stuffed Pepper Recipe:
- Use store-bought cornbread from your local bakery
- Prep filling up to 2 days ahead
- Our recommended Dutch oven ensures perfect heat distribution for the filling
What sets this dish apart is its unique cornbread crown – circular disks of cornbread topped with melted cheddar create an Instagram-worthy presentation that’ll have everyone reaching for their phones before their forks.
For the complete recipe and step-by-step photos, visit The Wimpy Vegetarian.
Stuffed Butternut Squash By The Plant Based School
Credit: theplantbasedschool.com
Looking for a show stopping vegetarian centerpiece this Thanksgiving? This Stuffed Butternut Squash transforms humble ingredients into an elegant main that’ll have everyone at the table swooning.
What makes this dish special is its make-ahead friendly nature – perfect for busy holiday hosts.
The squash can be roasted and the filling prepared up to three days in advance, then assembled and baked just before serving.
The optional roasted potatoes and grapes add a sophisticated touch that elevates this from simple main to holiday masterpiece.
Packed with 21g of protein per serving and loaded with vitamins A and C, this dish proves holiday mains can be both nutritious and indulgent.
Get the full recipe at The Plant Based School and make this your new holiday tradition.
Final Thoughts
From the elegant Mushroom Wellington to the vibrant Jambalaya Stuffed Peppers, these recipes prove that vegetarian mains can steal the spotlight at any Thanksgiving feast.
The key to success? Make-ahead preparation is your secret weapon – most of these dishes can be partially or fully prepared days in advance.
I would say don’t be afraid to mix cuisines, the Persian Tahdig and Curried Pot Pie show how global flavors can breathe new life into holiday traditions.
For hosting success, I’d recommend choosing one showstopper main and complementing it with two simpler dishes from this collection.
Remember, presentation matters – invest in proper serving dishes and garnishes to elevate these plant-based masterpieces.
