25 Vegan Thanksgiving Sides That Steal the Spotlight
Every Thanksgiving spread needs dependable favorites, and having one of these 25 vegan sides that always draws attention. These dishes mix color, texture, and flavor in ways that make the table feel full of life. From warm casseroles to crisp salads, each one earns a spot beside the main course. You’ll find everything from timeless staples to new traditions tucked among these plates.
Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Nothing wins over skeptics faster than Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze. Their crisp edges and tangy glaze turn a humble vegetable into the surprise star of the table. I’ve served these at gatherings where people who swore they didn’t like sprouts ended up asking for seconds. They pair beautifully with any main course and bring a bright balance to rich, comforting plates.
Get the Recipe: Caramelized Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole
A crowd instantly gravitates toward Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole the moment it appears on the table. It’s cozy and nostalgic without feeling heavy, and everyone seems to have a story that involves a similar dish. I always make sure to prepare enough because it disappears fast. The golden top and creamy inside make it one of those dependable sides that never disappoint.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole
Rich Pumpkin Risotto
Few things feel more fitting for a cool autumn meal than Rich Pumpkin Risotto. Its texture feels luxurious while still being completely plant-based, and it adds a seasonal warmth to the table. Guests always comment on how comforting it tastes without being too filling. I love serving it as a bridge between lighter salads and heartier casseroles.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pumpkin Risotto
Crispy Vegan Breakfast Potatoes
There’s something about Crispy Vegan Breakfast Potatoes that turns even the simplest dinner into something memorable. The golden edges bring crunch that balances softer dishes perfectly. I find that people return to the pan for seconds without hesitation. They might not sound fancy, but they always get noticed.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Vegan Breakfast Potatoes
Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese
One serving of Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese and everyone forgets it’s dairy-free. The smooth texture and gentle flavor comfort without being overly rich, and it always vanishes fast. I’ve learned to keep an extra pan ready because someone always comes back for more. It’s the ultimate side that bridges traditional comfort and modern flavor.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese
Loaded Vegan Tater Tot Casserole
I bring Loaded Vegan Tater Tot Casserole when I need a guaranteed win at the table. It’s hearty, nostalgic, and instantly recognizable. The golden top gets everyone’s attention before they even grab a plate. I love how it feels indulgent while still staying completely plant-based, earning a spot in both family dinners and big celebrations.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Vegan Tater Tot Casserole
Fresh Harvest Salad
The vibrant mix in Fresh Harvest Salad brings a refreshing pause amid heavier dishes. I like adding it to big spreads so there’s something crisp and colorful to balance all the comfort food. It’s the kind of bowl everyone reaches for between bites of casseroles and potatoes. Each forkful reminds me how freshness always belongs at the Thanksgiving table.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Harvest Salad
Creamy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole
Creamy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole proves that Brussels sprouts were meant for more than roasting. Its silky texture and cozy flavor transform a divisive veggie into a crowd-pleaser. Whenever I serve it, guests always ask for the recipe afterward. It’s one of those dishes that quietly changes minds and becomes a regular request each holiday.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole
Fluffy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
Comfort starts the moment Fluffy Vegan Mashed Potatoes hit the table. I’ve made these countless times, and they always remind me why classics endure. They’re simple, rich in texture, and fit perfectly beside any main course. Even people who skip other sides never pass these up, which tells me everything I need to know.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Vegan Mashed Potatoes
Fresh Quinoa Salad
Colorful and crisp, Fresh Quinoa Salad balances out the rich casseroles surrounding it. The light texture helps every plate feel more interesting. I bring this whenever I want a side that feels modern without being complicated. It’s refreshing enough to reset the appetite between bites of heavier dishes.
Get the Recipe: Fresh Quinoa Salad
Creamy Vegan Green Bean Casserole
When Creamy Vegan Green Bean Casserole makes an appearance, it signals that dinner is about to get serious. People expect it and are quick to notice if it’s missing. The familiar flavor feels both nostalgic and new, especially in its vegan form. I’ve yet to meet anyone who doesn’t take seconds once it’s served warm.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Green Bean Casserole
Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup
On cooler days, I reach for Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup as the warm-up act for any meal. It’s comforting without being too filling, and the aroma always draws people into the kitchen. Everyone appreciates how it fits anywhere in the lineup, from appetizer to main course. It’s one of those recipes that makes conversation slow because everyone’s too busy enjoying it.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegan Lentil Soup
Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Serving Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad feels like offering sunshine in bowl form. It’s colorful, filling, and has that mix of textures that keeps every bite interesting. Guests always talk about how cheerful it looks on the table. I love how it bridges the line between a warm side and a hearty salad.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Sweet Potato and Chickpea Salad
Hearty Vegetable Casserole
When I’m short on time but want something that feels thoughtful, Hearty Vegetable Casserole is my go-to. It comes out of the oven bubbling and ready to share. Everyone appreciates that it brings comfort without being too heavy. It’s dependable, flavorful, and earns compliments from even the most traditional guests.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Casserole
Golden Roasted Potatoes
A plate of Golden Roasted Potatoes needs no introduction. Their crisp edges and soft centers make them disappear fast at any gathering. I’ve learned to roast extra trays because someone always sneaks a few before dinner starts. They’re simple yet essential, grounding all the other sides with familiar warmth.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Potatoes
Charred Grilled Zucchini
When I serve Charred Grilled Zucchini, people always comment on how smoky and fresh it tastes. It’s light but still feels special enough for the main table. I enjoy how it balances the richness of other sides and adds variety without extra fuss. It’s proof that even the simplest vegetables can make a strong impression.
Get the Recipe: Charred Grilled Zucchini
Golden Baked Sweet Potato Wedges
Plates empty fast whenever Golden Baked Sweet Potato Wedges show up. They strike that perfect balance between crisp and tender, and everyone grabs a few before sitting down. I make them often because they work for any size gathering. Their vibrant color alone makes them feel festive without any extra effort.
Get the Recipe: Golden Baked Sweet Potato Wedges
Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Few dishes create instant nostalgia like Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole. It’s comforting, hearty, and always a favorite with guests of all ages. I’ve noticed it’s usually the first pan to clear, no matter how many sides are on the table. There’s something timeless about the way it ties every meal together.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole
Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
My kitchen smells amazing whenever Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables are in the oven. The natural sweetness of the veggies develops beautifully, turning them into something everyone loves. I bring this to gatherings when I want color and simplicity in one dish. It’s an effortless way to make any spread look and feel abundant.
Get the Recipe: Golden Sheet Pan Roasted Root Vegetables
Mushroom Gravy
A table without Mushroom Gravy feels incomplete once you’ve tried it. It ties all the sides together with deep, earthy flavor. I pour it over everything from potatoes to casseroles and never regret it. Somehow it manages to make every dish taste more intentional.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy
Hearty Red Lentil Soup
Whenever I need a cozy first course, Hearty Red Lentil Soup delivers without fail. It’s comforting enough for chilly days yet light enough not to overshadow the main event. I like serving it in small bowls so people can enjoy it while chatting. It’s the kind of simple warmth that feels essential during Thanksgiving gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Red Lentil Soup
Sweet Vegan Corn Casserole
Every table benefits from Sweet Vegan Corn Casserole, especially when you want something nostalgic and comforting. Its texture walks the line between creamy and soft, pleasing everyone. I’ve seen guests scoop generous servings before trying anything else. It’s one of those quiet favorites that feels like tradition from the first bite.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Vegan Corn Casserole
Tender Sautéed Kale
When heavier sides start to pile up, Tender Sautéed Kale brings much-needed balance. It’s light yet still feels festive enough for Thanksgiving. I like how it adds a pop of color and freshness to the table. Even those who claim they don’t eat greens usually take some once they see how inviting it looks.
Get the Recipe: Tender Sautéed Kale
Rustic Homemade Ratatouille
The mix of textures and colors in Rustic Homemade Ratatouille always draws attention. It’s beautiful, hearty, and comforting all at once. I serve it when I want something that looks impressive but remains simple to share. It adds a rustic charm to the table that feels perfectly at home during the holidays.
Get the Recipe: Rustic Homemade Ratatouille
Perfect Baked Potato
A classic like Perfect Baked Potato deserves its place at both the start and end of the list. Its simplicity hides just how comforting it really is. The soft interior pairs with everything else on the plate without competing. When the meal winds down, this is always what people remember first.
Get the Recipe: Perfect Baked Potato
