17 Festive Vegan Mains to Make Your December Weekend Feel Special
Sometimes, it’s the simple act of sharing a festive meal that turns an ordinary December weekend into something you look forward to. All 17 vegan mains in this collection have a way of lifting up the season, whether for friends or quiet nights in. These dishes fit both lively get-togethers and peaceful weekend dinners. To me, there’s real comfort in holiday meals made with care and a little creativity.
Elegant Mushroom Wellington
Among festive meals, few things bring out that wow factor quite like this Elegant Mushroom Wellington. The experience of slicing through layers can make any December weekend dinner feel extra special. I notice people light up when they see it on the table, ready to share and enjoy together. For anyone searching for something cozy but still a bit fancy, this one always fits the bill beautifully.
Get the Recipe: Elegant Mushroom Wellington
Holiday Lentil Loaf
Every December deserves a main dish that feels both classic and new at the same time, and this Holiday Lentil Loaf manages to bring both. A slice of this at a weekend dinner feels like part of a real celebration. Friends often ask how it manages to taste so festive yet familiar. I find myself making extra, just to have leftovers that brighten up the next day.
Get the Recipe: Holiday Lentil Loaf
Savory Vegan Nut Roast
Special occasions need meals with that little something extra, and this Savory Vegan Nut Roast is a real showstopper. Bringing it out at a winter gathering always sparks a bit of anticipation. People lean in, eager for a hearty, wholesome bite that adds warmth to the evening. I reach for this whenever I want to bring a sense of tradition to the table without making anything feel too formal.
Get the Recipe: Savory Vegan Nut Roast
Savory Vegan Ham
December weekends call for meals that bring comfort and a sense of something special, which is where this Savory Vegan Ham really shines. Guests tend to linger, sharing stories over second helpings because it feels like a true holiday treat. I love how it brings folks together, making even ordinary nights feel a little more festive. The atmosphere changes, and suddenly dinner turns into an occasion worth remembering.
Get the Recipe: Savory Vegan Ham
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Watching the first bite of this Stuffed Acorn Squash get served out brings a quiet excitement to any winter gathering. There’s a bit of magic in the way an everyday meal suddenly feels festive, just by serving something unique. I rely on this dish when I want to bring smiles to the table without a lot of fuss. Each forkful is a nod to the cozy season, perfect for any December celebration.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash
Layered Vegan Lasagna
Busy weeks fade away when this Layered Vegan Lasagna fills the house with inviting smells. Comfort takes center stage as you pull each cozy, stacked layer onto your plate. Guests often ask what makes this version feel so perfect for a special dinner, even though it remains simple. I like how everyone relaxes when this main dish appears, ready to tuck into another bite.
Get the Recipe: Layered Vegan Lasagna
Layered Moussaka
A quiet weekend at home turns memorable when this Layered Moussaka is on the menu. The delicate balance of flavors and layers feels right at home during winter celebrations. I notice people always go back for another helping, drawn by how warm and inviting it is. If you want to surprise everyone with something just a little different, this dish brings the excitement.
Get the Recipe: Layered Moussaka
Creamy Vegan Alfredo Pasta
Comfort takes center stage when you serve this Creamy Vegan Alfredo Pasta at a festive gathering. Every forkful feels smooth and lush, making a regular evening feel like an event. Friends love the gentle richness that stands out among winter mains. I save this for nights when dinner should feel both familiar and like a small celebration all on its own.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Alfredo Pasta
Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Everyone lights up when this Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese arrives at the dinner table. That warm hug you crave during cold months finds its match with every spoonful. I’ve found that even gatherings where some folks are hesitant about plant-based mains end up with empty bowls. For anyone wanting to spark a bit of joy at their December meal, this classic twist always works.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta
Some dishes just make the whole room brighten up, and this Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta is proof. Its bold color and flavor spark smiles as soon as it hits the plate. I turn to this one for evenings when I want something simple but still special enough for a weekend dinner. The gentle richness makes it an easy choice whenever you want to create a festive mood.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta
Savory Baked Mushroom Rice
Lighting candles and setting the table feels more fun when this Savory Baked Mushroom Rice is the star of the meal. Guests always reach for second helpings, making each scoop a small part of a bigger celebration. I rely on it for a main that feels inviting and unique during winter weekends. This recipe brings both coziness and something a little out of the ordinary.
Get the Recipe: Savory Baked Mushroom Rice
Rich Lentil Bolognese
Everyone finds comfort in a bowl of this Rich Lentil Bolognese, especially during chilly December nights. There’s a heartwarming feeling that sweeps over the table with each savory bite. I notice people tend to relax and talk a while longer, happy to linger after the meal. Choose this when you want warmth and good company front and center.
Get the Recipe: Rich Lentil Bolognese
Rustic Vegan Ratatouille
Winter tables get brighter with this Rustic Vegan Ratatouille adding a splash of color. Alongside its lively look, it always brings a surprising depth that draws compliments. I find this dish encourages people to slow down and appreciate both flavor and good conversation. For weekend meals that feel special but never fussy, this is a standout.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Vegan Ratatouille
Creamy Vegan Tikka Masala
Bringing a little warmth to the evening, this Creamy Vegan Tikka Masala never fails to spark interest. The blend of comforting sauce and hearty bites means it disappears from plates in no time. I love watching everyone lean closer, sharing laughs while the warm spices keep the room cozy. If dinner feels routine, this recipe easily makes it unforgettable.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Tikka Masala
Hearty Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
December weekends invite dishes that give you a big, steady hug, like this Hearty Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew. Each bowl brings calm and comfort, especially as winter winds down the day. I lean on this recipe when looking to add a homey touch that lasts beyond just one meal. For anyone wanting pure coziness, it’s an absolute favorite.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegan Chickpea and Sweet Potato Stew
Hearty Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew
Cold weather begs for something dependable, so I reach for this Hearty Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew when I want to keep things simple and robust. The deep, earthy flavor fills the room and starts conversation before anyone even takes a bite. It becomes a quiet centerpiece, drawing everyone in for more. Anyone searching for a no-fuss, crowd-pleasing main finds comfort in this choice.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegan Mushroom Lentil Stew
Savory Mushroom Pie
Holiday tables always get a little more exciting when someone brings this Savory Mushroom Pie to the mix. The first slice signals something special, setting the scene for a cozy night in. I love how it brings out good moods and draws positive reactions, without ever feeling too heavy. For a December evening needing extra warmth, this is the one I count on.
Get the Recipe: Savory Mushroom Pie
