9 Hearty Vegan Comfort Dishes Ideal for December Cooking

Cold weather usually reminds people how helpful 9 solid ideas can be when December cooking ramps up and Christmas planning starts piling on. Some meals work well on slower evenings, while others step in when plans fall apart. A mix like this keeps things flexible without making everything feel repetitive. Anyone juggling holiday details may appreciate options that make mealtime feel less chaotic.

A casserole dish brimming with golden-brown bread crumbs, tender rice, and vibrant broccoli florets, this vegan cheesy broccoli and rice casserole is a delightful blend of flavors. — Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

A baked casserole dish filled with creamy macaroni and cheese, topped with browned breadcrumbs and chopped parsley, with a serving spoon inside. — Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Each time I serve this Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole, it gets a lot of happy reactions. The cheesy flavor mixed with crispy potatoes is the kind of comfort people look for in winter. Folks tend to ask for seconds, so making extra is always a good idea. It’s one of those dishes that just fits with colder days.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Hashbrown Casserole

Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Close-up of a creamy dish with a spoon, likely consisting of mashed potatoes or a similar textured food. The mixture appears smooth and slightly chunky. — Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Whenever this Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese comes out, smiles tend to follow. There’s just something inviting about a familiar dish that’s made extra creamy. I serve it often, and there’s rarely any left by the time dinner is done. It brings old-school comfort that you never outgrow.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Mac and Cheese

Fluffy Vegan Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with chopped chives and black pepper. — Fluffy Vegan Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Few things are as comforting as this Fluffy Vegan Mashed Potatoes on a cold December night. The smooth texture brings a sense of warmth that’s hard to beat. I always notice how quickly it disappears when served with dinner. When people want a classic side with big comfort vibes, these mashed potatoes are the answer.
Get the Recipe: Fluffy Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Mushroom Gravy

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with mushroom and onion gravy, garnished with rosemary. — Mushroom Gravy. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Serving this Mushroom Gravy makes any dish feel richer and more comforting during December. Its deep flavor works like a cozy blanket, bringing extra joy to the meal. I use it for everything from mashed potatoes to roasted veggies, and it always gets compliments. For chilly nights, nothing works quite like gravy.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Gravy

Stuffed Acorn Squash

A roasted acorn squash half filled with a stuffing of couscous, apples, nuts, raisins, and fresh herbs sits on a plate. — Stuffed Acorn Squash. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

These Stuffed Acorn Squash always seem to grab attention at the dinner table. Their warm, hearty flavor matches the festive mood of December meals. I make these when I need something filling and special without much fuss. Serving squash like this makes the meal feel just a little more cheerful and cozy.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Granola with nuts and oats is drizzled with honey, creating a symphony of flavors reminiscent of a vegan sweet potato casserole. — Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bringing out this Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole is an easy way to brighten up a winter dinner. The sweet, smooth flavor always draws a crowd. I love how even those who aren’t sure about sweet potatoes end up wanting a second helping. When things get cold, this casserole makes dinnertime feel special.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Creamy Vegan Rice Pudding

Having this Creamy Vegan Rice Pudding as a treat after dinner just feels right. The creamy, familiar feeling makes it perfect for slowing down and relaxing. I find that even those who don’t usually pick dessert are curious to try a spoonful. It’s a simple way to bring a touch of sweetness to chilly evenings.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Rice Pudding

Rich Vegan Pecan Pie

Slice of pecan pie topped with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on a white plate, accompanied by two spoons. — Rich Vegan Pecan Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Nothing wraps up a December gathering better than this Rich Vegan Pecan Pie. The sweet, nutty taste always gets people talking. I’ve noticed it’s usually the first dessert to be finished at holiday get-togethers. This pie just feels right for cold nights when everyone wants something extra comforting.
Get the Recipe: Rich Vegan Pecan Pie

Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole

If you’re after a warm meal that doesn’t take much effort, these Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole are a sure bet. The creamy combo of rice and broccoli is something people always come back for. I like how simple ingredients make such a filling dish, especially in December. Everyone appreciates food that feels homemade.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole