30 Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes You Can’t Afford to Miss This Year

You know that moment when Thanksgiving sneaks up on you, and suddenly you’re trying to pull together a feast that feels warm, generous, and kind to everyone at the table—vegans, vegetarians, and the folks who usually expect turkey front and center? You’re not alone. Every year, you want dishes that feel nostalgic, comforting, and festive, but you also want options that fit a plant-powered lifestyle without losing the richness you associate with the holiday.

That’s why exploring vegan Thanksgiving recipes opens up a whole new world of flavors. You get to create plates that feel familiar yet fresh, cozy but lighter, and absolutely satisfying for every guest. This guide walks you through 30 unforgettable recipes—from appetizers to mains to desserts—so you can build a complete, crowd-pleasing Thanksgiving menu without stress.

Whether this is your first plant-based holiday or you’re simply upgrading your traditional spread, you’ll find recipes here that spark ideas, replace old favorites, and possibly become new traditions.

Ultimate Vegan Thanksgiving Menu Breakdown

What Makes a Great Vegan Thanksgiving Dish?

A standout Thanksgiving dish doesn’t need dairy, meat, or eggs to impress your guests. What it really needs is heart—flavor that hits that familiar comfort zone and textures that feel indulgent.

Great vegan Thanksgiving dishes rely on:

• Seasonal produce: squash, potatoes, cranberries, mushrooms
• Plant-heavy fats: olive oil, coconut milk, cashew cream
• Deep flavor: garlic, herbs, caramelized vegetables
• Balanced elements: sweet, savory, creamy, crunchy

When you choose your dishes with variety in mind, your menu feels rich and complete.

How to Structure a Full Vegan Thanksgiving Menu

When you plan a vegan Thanksgiving, your goal is to create a table that feels abundant, colorful, and comforting. Each dish should complement the others while offering variety in flavor, texture, and nutrition. Here’s a breakdown of how to organize your menu:

1. Appetizers

Start with light, flavorful dishes that stimulate the appetite without being too heavy. Good vegan options often combine vegetables, legumes, and herbs:

• Warm soups: Creamy butternut squash or roasted tomato soup
• Bite-sized treats: Stuffed mushrooms, crispy Brussels sprouts bites
• Dips & spreads: Pumpkin hummus with pita, roasted red pepper dip
• Platters: Vegan charcuterie boards with plant-based cheeses, nuts, and fruits

Tip: Appetizers set the tone for the meal and give guests something to nibble on while you finish prepping mains.

2. Main Courses

The centerpiece of the meal should be filling, hearty, and visually impressive. Vegan mains can mimic traditional holiday favorites or offer creative plant-based alternatives:

• Lentil or nut “meatloaf” for a rich, protein-packed dish
• Stuffed squash or sweet potatoes with grains, beans, and cranberries
• Jackfruit “turkey” roast or Mushroom Wellington for a dramatic showstopper
• Vegan pot pies or shepherd’s pies for comfort-food vibes

Tip: Choose at least one main dish that can serve as the focal point and pairs well with your sides.

3. Side Dishes

Sides round out the menu and provide variety in flavor, texture, and color:

• Starches: Mashed potatoes, sweet potato wedges, vegan mac and cheese
• Vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables, glazed carrots, balsamic Brussels sprouts
• Casseroles & stuffing: Vegan green bean casserole, herb stuffing, grain-based pilafs
• Fresh salads: Kale salad with apples, cranberries, and toasted nuts

Tip: Aim for a mix of warm and cold sides, soft and crunchy textures, and sweet and savory flavors.

4. Desserts

End the meal on a sweet note with indulgent but plant-based treats:

• Classic pies: Pumpkin pie, apple crisp, pecan pie
• Creamy desserts: Vegan cheesecakes or chocolate mousse
• Quick treats: No-bake peanut butter bars, mini tarts, fruit crumbles

Tip: Include at least one dessert that is familiar to traditional Thanksgiving menus and one that adds a creative twist.

5. Beverages (Optional but Recommended)

Complement your menu with festive drinks:

• Warm drinks: Mulled apple cider, spiced hot chocolate
• Cold beverages: Sparkling water with cranberries and herbs, homemade lemonade

Key Planning Tips

• Balance flavors: Sweet, savory, acidic, and umami
• Balance textures: Creamy, crunchy, tender, and crispy
• Prep ahead: Many soups, sides, and desserts can be made in advance
• Portion wisely: Ensure there’s enough variety and quantity to satisfy all guests

Appetizers to Start Your Celebration

Creamy Vegan Butternut Squash Soup

Warm, velvety, and perfectly spiced, this vegan butternut squash soup is a fantastic starter for your Thanksgiving feast. It’s comforting, easy to make, and will impress everyone at the table—vegans and non-vegans alike.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Roast the squash: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed squash with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast for 25–30 minutes until tender and lightly caramelized.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Combine & simmer: Add the roasted squash and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10–15 minutes.
4. Blend the soup: Using an immersion blender or countertop blender, puree the mixture until smooth. Return to the pot.
5. Add coconut milk & seasoning: Stir in coconut milk, nutmeg, and adjust salt and pepper to taste. Heat gently until warmed through.
6. Serve & garnish: Ladle into bowls and top with fresh sage leaves, a drizzle of coconut milk, or a sprinkle of nutmeg.

Tips for the Perfect Soup

• For a creamier texture, add a handful of roasted cashews when blending.
• Adjust the spice level by adding a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.
• Make ahead: The soup can be prepared a day in advance; just reheat gently before serving.

This soup works beautifully as the first course of your vegan Thanksgiving menu, pairing well with crusty bread, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. It’s seasonal, elegant, and sets the stage for the rest of your plant-based feast.

Crispy Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms

These vegan stuffed mushrooms are savory, satisfying, and bursting with flavor. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they combine tender mushroom caps with a crispy, herb-filled stuffing that everyone will love.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Prepare mushrooms: Remove stems from mushroom caps and finely chop them. Set the caps aside.
3. Cook filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until fragrant and translucent. Add the chopped mushroom stems, walnuts, and bread crumbs. Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly golden.
4. Season & finish filling: Stir in nutritional yeast, parsley, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
5. Stuff mushrooms: Spoon the mixture into each mushroom cap, pressing lightly to secure the filling.
6. Bake: Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15–20 minutes, or until tops are crispy and golden.
7. Serve: Garnish with additional parsley or a light drizzle of olive oil. Serve warm.

Tips for Perfect Crispy Stuffed Mushrooms

• Extra crispiness: Sprinkle a few more bread crumbs on top before baking.
• Add depth of flavor: Include a pinch of smoked paprika or fresh thyme in the filling.
• Make ahead: Prepare the filling a day before and assemble just before baking.

These stuffed mushrooms are ideal as a vegan Thanksgiving appetizer—they’re flavorful, elegant, and sure to disappear quickly from your table.

Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bites

These Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts Bites are sweet, smoky, and perfectly caramelized—a delightful addition to your vegan Thanksgiving menu. They’re crisp on the outside, tender on the inside, and easy to prepare for a crowd.

Ingredients

Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Brussels sprouts: Trim off the ends and remove any yellow or damaged leaves. Slice each sprout in half lengthwise.
3. Season and coat: In a large bowl, toss the Brussels sprouts with olive oil, maple syrup, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper until evenly coated.
4. Arrange on baking sheet: Spread the sprouts cut-side down on a lined baking sheet to ensure even roasting.
5. Roast: Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the edges are crispy and caramelized, stirring halfway through.
6. Optional toppings: Sprinkle crushed pecans and fresh thyme over the roasted sprouts before serving for extra flavor and texture.
7. Serve: Transfer to a serving platter and enjoy warm.

Tips for Perfect Maple-Roasted Brussels Sprouts

• Crispier results: Don’t overcrowd the pan; give each sprout space to roast.
• Enhanced sweetness: Add an extra drizzle of maple syrup during the last 5 minutes of roasting.
• Make ahead: Roast them a few hours in advance and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5–7 minutes before serving.

These bites are a flavor-packed, crowd-pleasing side that pairs beautifully with mains like vegan “meatloaf,” stuffed squash, or jackfruit roast. Their caramelized sweetness balances savory dishes and adds a festive touch to your Thanksgiving table.

Vegan Charcuterie Board

You can build a beautiful board using:

• Plant-based cheeses
• Roasted nuts
• Marinated vegetables
• Whole-grain crackers
• Herby dips

Pumpkin Hummus with Herb Pita Chips

This Pumpkin Hummus with Herb Pita Chips is a festive, creamy, and savory appetizer perfect for your vegan Thanksgiving spread. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables or crispy pita chips.

Ingredients

For the Pumpkin Hummus:

For the Herb Pita Chips:

Instructions

Prepare the Pumpkin Hummus:

1. In a food processor, combine pumpkin puree, chickpeas, tahini, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Blend until smooth, adding water gradually to reach your desired consistency.
3. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
4. Transfer to a serving bowl and drizzle lightly with olive oil. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or fresh parsley if desired.

Prepare the Herb Pita Chips:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut each pita round into triangles.
3. Toss pita triangles with olive oil, oregano, garlic powder, and salt until evenly coated.
4. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 8–10 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Serve:
Place the hummus in the center of a platter and arrange the herb pita chips around it. Add fresh vegetables like carrot sticks, cucumber slices, or bell pepper strips for extra color and crunch.

Tips for the Best Pumpkin Hummus

• Extra creaminess: Peel the skins off chickpeas before blending for a smoother texture.
• Flavor twist: Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne for a subtle kick.
• Make ahead: The hummus can be made a day in advance; store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

This Pumpkin Hummus with Herb Pita Chips is perfect as a starter for your vegan Thanksgiving, offering seasonal flavors and a light, crowd-pleasing snack that pairs wonderfully with your appetizers and mains.

Show-Stopping Vegan Thanksgiving Mains

Lentil and Walnut Vegan “Meatloaf”

Hearty, earthy, and great as a centerpiece.

Ingredients Table

Why This Works

• High protein
• Dense, satisfying texture

Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries

A vibrant dish bursting with sweet and savory notes.

Whole Roasted Cauliflower with Garlic Herb Butter

This centerpiece looks dramatic on your table and smells incredible.

Vegan Pot Pie with Flaky Herb Crust

Creamy inside, golden on top—pure comfort.

Mushroom Wellington

Deep, savory flavors wrapped in flaky pastry. This one always surprises non-vegans.

Creamy Pumpkin Alfredo Pasta

A cozy, creamy pasta with seasonal flair.

Stuffed Sweet Potatoes with Chickpeas & Spinach

A nutritious but filling option with minimal prep.

Jackfruit Vegan “Turkey” Roast

Jackfruit creates a tender, shreddable texture that mimics pulled turkey.

Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Whipped potatoes meet a savory lentil-vegetable filling for a hearty main.

Classic Vegan Thanksgiving Side Dishes

No vegan Thanksgiving would be complete without a variety of classic side dishes. They bring color, flavor, and texture to the table, perfectly complementing your mains. These plant-based sides are comforting, festive, and satisfying, ensuring every guest—vegan or not—feels the warmth of the holiday feast.

Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are the ultimate comfort food, and making them vegan doesn’t mean sacrificing creaminess or flavor. Start by boiling peeled and chopped potatoes along with several cloves of garlic until both are tender. Drain well and mash them using a potato masher or ricer for the fluffiest texture.

Next, fold in unsweetened plant milk, such as coconut or oat milk, and a couple of tablespoons of vegan butter. Season generously with salt and black pepper. For extra flair, sprinkle freshly chopped chives or parsley on top before serving.

Pro tip: Use a potato ricer or food mill to achieve an exceptionally smooth and light texture, and avoid over-mixing, which can make potatoes gummy. These mashed potatoes are the perfect base for vegan gravy or a hearty lentil loaf.

Vegan Green Bean Casserole

Green bean casserole is a holiday staple, and the vegan version is just as comforting and flavorful. Start by trimming fresh green beans and lightly steaming or blanching them until tender-crisp. Meanwhile, sauté sliced mushrooms and minced garlic in a touch of olive oil until aromatic and slightly golden.

Combine the green beans with a vegan cream sauce or a cashew-based cream to add richness. Season with salt and pepper, then top with crispy fried onions for a crunchy, flavorful finish. Bake the casserole at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes until bubbling and golden.

Serving tip: This dish works wonderfully as a make-ahead option; you can prepare it a day before and bake just before serving, saving you time on the big day.

Maple-Glazed Carrots

Maple-glazed carrots add a beautiful pop of color and a naturally sweet flavor to your vegan Thanksgiving table. Peel and slice fresh carrots into uniform pieces to ensure even roasting. Toss them with a bit of olive oil, maple syrup, and a pinch of salt.

Spread the carrots on a baking sheet and roast in the oven until tender and caramelized, turning halfway through for even cooking. Optionally, finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or rosemary for a fragrant touch.

Pro tip: For a glaze with extra depth, add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of smoked paprika before roasting. These carrots pair beautifully with creamy mashed potatoes and vegan mains like stuffed squash or lentil loaf.

Savory Vegan Stuffing

Stuffing is a cornerstone of Thanksgiving, and the vegan version is just as comforting as the traditional recipe. Begin by sautéing diced onions, celery, and carrots in olive oil until softened and fragrant. Add your choice of herbs—sage, rosemary, thyme—and let them bloom in the pan.

Tear or cube your favorite vegan bread, then combine it with the sautéed vegetables, and moisten with vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper, and bake in the oven until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

Serving tip: For a richer flavor, fold in roasted nuts like walnuts or pecans, or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness. This stuffing pairs beautifully with all your mains, from a hearty lentil loaf to a roasted mushroom Wellington.

Roasted Garlic Sweet Potato Wedges

Sweet potato wedges are both visually striking and satisfyingly sweet. Slice sweet potatoes into thick wedges and toss them with olive oil, minced garlic, salt, pepper, and a pinch of smoked paprika or cinnamon for warmth.

Roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) until tender on the inside and slightly caramelized on the outside. For added crunch, sprinkle with toasted pumpkin seeds before serving.

Pro tip: Sweet potatoes can be roasted a day in advance and quickly reheated in the oven. They complement creamy mashed potatoes, maple-glazed carrots, and almost any vegan main dish on the table.

Vegan Mac and Cheese

No holiday table is complete without a creamy, cheesy dish—and vegan mac and cheese delivers just that. Cook your favorite pasta until al dente. Meanwhile, prepare a rich, creamy sauce using blended cashews, nutritional yeast, garlic, lemon juice, and plant milk. Season with smoked paprika, mustard, or a pinch of cayenne for extra depth.

Combine the cooked pasta with the sauce and bake briefly for a bubbly, golden top, or serve stovetop for a creamier, softer version.

Serving tip: This dish is perfect for both kids and adults. Add roasted vegetables like broccoli or cauliflower for extra nutrition and texture.

Balsamic Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted vegetables adds both color and flavor to your vegan Thanksgiving spread. Choose a mix of carrots, parsnips, beets, bell peppers, and Brussels sprouts. Toss with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, pepper, and fresh or dried herbs.

Roast until vegetables are tender, caramelized, and slightly charred on the edges. These vegetables can be served warm or at room temperature and provide a light, fresh balance to heavier mains.

Pro tip: For extra presentation appeal, sprinkle with toasted nuts or seeds and a drizzle of extra balsamic glaze before serving.

Vegan Cornbread

Cornbread brings a comforting, slightly sweet note to the table. Use a combination of cornmeal, flour, plant-based milk, and a touch of maple syrup or agave. Mix in a bit of baking powder to achieve a light, fluffy texture. Bake until golden brown on top.

Serving tip: Serve warm with vegan butter or alongside soups, stews, and casseroles. Cornbread pairs especially well with vegan “meatloaf” or roasted vegetable dishes.

Holiday Kale Salad

A fresh, crisp salad balances the richness of the rest of the meal. Combine chopped kale with thinly sliced apples, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, and a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard.

Massage the kale lightly with the dressing to soften the leaves and enhance flavor. Serve immediately or let it sit for 10–15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro tip: For extra holiday flair, add pomegranate seeds, roasted pumpkin seeds, or a sprinkle of vegan feta.

These classic vegan side dishes provide variety, flavor, and festive appeal, ensuring your Thanksgiving table is as vibrant as it is satisfying. They’re also flexible—you can prep most ahead of time, letting you focus on the mains and desserts while still impressing your guests.

Vegan Thanksgiving Desserts for a Sweet Finish

Desserts are the grand finale of any Thanksgiving feast, and a vegan dessert table doesn’t have to be an afterthought. In fact, plant-based sweets are growing in popularity—according to a 2024 survey, 43% of Americans are actively trying to incorporate more plant-based meals, and desserts are no exception. Offering indulgent, cruelty-free treats ensures everyone at your table feels included and satisfied. Here’s how you can craft a show-stopping vegan dessert menu that’s both delicious and impressive.

Classic Vegan Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie remains the most iconic Thanksgiving dessert, with over 80% of households serving it each year. The vegan version is just as satisfying but healthier, with coconut milk providing creamy richness without saturated fat from dairy, and maple syrup or coconut sugar offering a natural sweetener alternative.

To make it: mix canned pumpkin puree with coconut milk, a blend of cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger, and cloves, and lightly sweeten to taste. Pour into a vegan pie crust and bake until the filling is just set. Cooling for at least an hour allows it to firm up perfectly.

Why it works: Pumpkin is high in vitamin A and antioxidants, giving this dessert a nutritional boost alongside indulgent flavors. Top with coconut whipped cream for a classic presentation.

Vegan Apple Crisp

Apple crisp is beloved for its warm, comforting flavors and crunchy topping. In fact, apple-based desserts account for 25% of holiday dessert consumption in the U.S., making it a must-have on your table.

Slice tart apples and toss with cinnamon, a touch of maple syrup, and lemon juice. Cover with a topping of oats, flour, coconut oil, and chopped nuts. Bake until the apples are tender and the topping is golden and crisp.

Why it works: Apples are rich in fiber and antioxidants, while the oats and nuts add healthy fats and protein. Serve warm with plant-based ice cream or coconut cream for a luxurious finishing touch.

Pro tip: Add dried cranberries or pomegranate seeds to boost color, texture, and natural sweetness—perfect for Instagram-worthy presentation.

Chocolate Avocado Mousse

Chocolate desserts dominate holiday tables, and this vegan chocolate mousse delivers rich flavor with fewer calories and more nutrients than traditional recipes. Avocado creates a creamy base while adding heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, and cocoa powder brings antioxidants to the mix.

Blend ripe avocados with cocoa powder, maple syrup, and a splash of vanilla extract until silky smooth. Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Fun fact: Studies show that dark chocolate consumption is linked to improved mood and cognitive function, making this mousse both indulgent and feel-good.

Mini Pecan Pie Tarts

Pecan pies are a holiday favorite, but the mini vegan version makes them easier to portion and serve. Using a mixture of maple syrup, coconut oil, and chopped pecans in a mini crust, these tarts deliver the familiar gooey sweetness without dairy or eggs.

Why it works: Pecans provide healthy fats, protein, and fiber, and using mini tarts encourages portion control—helpful for guests who want a taste without overindulging.

Vegan Berry-Swirl Cheesecake

This cheesecake swaps dairy for cashew or tofu-based filling, giving it a creamy texture and high protein content. Swirl in berry puree for a vibrant, antioxidant-rich topping.

Stats & appeal: Berries are packed with vitamin C and polyphenols, which support immune health—perfect for the colder months. This dessert is visually striking, making it ideal for impressing guests and boosting engagement if shared on social media.

No-Bake Peanut Butter Bars

For a quick and indulgent treat, these no-bake peanut butter bars combine oats, peanut butter, maple syrup, and dark chocolate. They are ready in under 20 minutes and provide a protein-rich snack for energy-hungry guests after a heavy meal.

Pro tip: Portion into small squares for easy serving and to prevent overindulgence. Peanut butter is a crowd-pleaser, and this dessert satisfies sweet cravings with minimal prep.

Tips to Make Your Vegan Desserts Shine

• Balance flavors: Pair sweet with a hint of salt or citrus to elevate richness.
• Layer textures: Combine creamy, crunchy, and chewy elements for a more exciting experience.
• Prep ahead: Most vegan desserts store well in the fridge or freezer, freeing you to focus on mains and sides.
• Highlight nutrition subtly: Mentioning antioxidants, fiber, or healthy fats can make desserts feel both indulgent and smart for health-conscious guests.

By including these desserts, your vegan Thanksgiving menu becomes not only flavorful but also visually appealing, nutritious, and inclusive. These sweets aren’t just a finale—they’re a highlight of the celebration, leaving your guests impressed and satisfied.

Tips to Make Your Vegan Thanksgiving Stress-Free

If you want your day to run smoothly, keep these strategies in mind:

• Prep ahead: cut vegetables, bake desserts
• Batch cook: casseroles and stuffings
• Use warmers: slow cookers and warming trays
• Mix classics & new dishes: familiarity wins

Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes

What are the easiest vegan Thanksgiving recipes to start with?

Simple sides like mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, and cranberry sauce are perfect beginners.

Will non-vegans enjoy vegan Thanksgiving food?

Absolutely—rich flavors and hearty textures appeal to everyone.

How do you replace dairy in traditional dishes?

You can use coconut milk, vegan butter, oat cream, or cashew-based blends.

How do you make vegan Thanksgiving mains filling?

Use hearty ingredients like mushrooms, beans, lentils, and nuts.

Can you prep vegan Thanksgiving dishes ahead?

Yes. Soups, desserts, casseroles, and sauces all store well.

Conclusion

When you build your Thanksgiving table with these vegan Thanksgiving recipes, you create more than just a meal. You craft an experience filled with warmth, flavor, and inclusivity. You give yourself the freedom to explore new traditions while honoring the familiar comfort everyone expects from the holiday.

If you’re ready to bring this menu to life, start with one or two dishes, build your confidence, and expand your selection next year. Your table will quickly become the place people can’t wait to gather around.

Ready to elevate your Thanksgiving? Try a recipe from this list and start your new plant-powered holiday tradition today.