17 Vegan Thanksgiving Main Ideas Even the Turkey Might Be Jealous Of

ByMandy Applegate

Every Thanksgiving table deserves a spotlight beyond the usual. Any of these 17 vegan main ideas might even make turkey step aside. Hosting a holiday meal or just gathering with friends, these dishes bring warmth and welcome to any crowd. Find out which plant-based mains add extra excitement to a season packed with comfort.

A glazed meatloaf with a crosshatch pattern sits on a white platter, garnished with parsley. Two slices are cut from one end.
Savory Vegan Ham. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.
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Rich Pumpkin Risotto

A close-up of vegan pumpkin risotto, topped with roasted pumpkin slices, sage leaves, and chopped nuts.
Rich Pumpkin Risotto. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bringing this Rich Pumpkin Risotto to the table feels like a cozy celebration. There’s something memorable about the creamy texture and gentle autumn flavor. As soon as you serve it, people lean in, wondering how it gets so warm and comforting. The mellow pumpkin makes every bite worth lingering over.
Get the Recipe: Rich Pumpkin Risotto

Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy pasta garnished with herbs, with a slice of bread on the side; a skillet and a small bowl of roasted vegetables are in the background.
Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Whenever I lay out this Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese, folks can’t help but ask for seconds. It’s familiar without being predictable, with that creamy sauce adding a special twist. You’ll notice smiles as people taste the rich pumpkin that’s both festive and inviting. It’s the kind of dish you remember.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Hearty Veg Winter Stew

A bowl of lentil stew with potatoes and carrots, garnished with sliced green onions and parsley, accompanied by slices of crusty bread.
Hearty Veg Winter Stew. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

This Hearty Veg Winter Stew fits perfectly for Thanksgiving, especially when the weather turns crisp. Each ladleful feels like pure comfort with its deep, robust flavors. As you settle in with a bowl, the warmth has a way of bringing everyone together. Even meat-eaters seem tempted by how cozy it feels.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Veg Winter Stew

Creamy Broccoli Casserole

A casserole dish filled with baked broccoli and mushrooms topped with crispy fried onions, with a serving spoon lifting out a portion.
Creamy Broccoli Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

I always reserve this Creamy Broccoli Casserole for holiday gatherings, since it never fails to bring nostalgic smiles. Creamy and vibrant, it gets people talking about how good veggies can taste. You’ll catch guests reaching for seconds because the texture hits all the right notes. It’s a major crowd-pleaser.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Broccoli Casserole

Flaky Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

Close-up of a vegan pot pie with a flaky crust, featuring visible corn, peas, carrots, and a creamy filling. A sprig of fresh herb and a sprinkle of black pepper garnish the pie.
Flaky Homemade Vegan Pot Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

There’s something classic about serving this Flaky Homemade Vegan Pot Pie for Thanksgiving. Layers of tender vegetables peek out beneath a golden crust, drawing curiosity and delight. You can practically see the anticipation as people dig in. This is one main that starts conversations and ends with empty plates.
Get the Recipe: Flaky Homemade Vegan Pot Pie

Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

A plate of roasted cauliflower steaks garnished with chopped pistachios, pomegranate seeds, and fresh parsley.
Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Watching the reactions when I serve this Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks is always rewarding. The crisp edges and tender center make it stand out from anything ordinary. Non-vegans usually want to know how it gets such a bold color and satisfying bite. It turns dinner into a special occasion.
Get the Recipe: Golden Roasted Vegan Cauliflower Steaks

Creamy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

A baked casserole with Brussels sprouts and a crispy, golden-brown topping, garnished with chopped parsley.
Creamy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Trying this Creamy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole is a pleasant surprise for anyone who thinks they dislike sprouts. It brings creamy comfort and a subtle seasonal sweetness, changing minds in just one bite. People always ask if there’s more after tasting that rich sauce. You’ll be glad you put this one front and center.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Brussels Sprout Casserole

Layered Vegan Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of vegetable lasagna showing layers of pasta, assorted vegetables, ricotta cheese, and tomato sauce with a breadcrumb topping.
Layered Vegan Lasagna. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

If you’re looking for something hearty that feeds a crowd, this Layered Vegan Lasagna really delivers. You’ll hear people reminiscing about past holidays as they dig into familiar layers. Each slice reveals plenty of flavor and that timeless comfort. It feels festive the moment you start plating it up.
Get the Recipe: Layered Vegan Lasagna

Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower head cut in half, garnished with chopped parsley, on a white plate.
Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Centering this Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower on the Thanksgiving table draws gasps and applause. The dramatic presentation makes it feel almost regal, while the caramelized aroma fills the room. Everyone wants a slice as soon as they see how tender it looks. It always feels like the star in a sea of sides.
Get the Recipe: Perfectly Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole

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.

Every time I make this Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole, it disappears quickly—no leftovers guaranteed. Creamy, golden, and hearty, it has a comforting quality guests talk about afterward. There’s something about bubbling cheese that draws a crowd. Somehow its familiar flavors never get old at Thanksgiving.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Vegan Broccoli and Rice Casserole

Creamy Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

A bowl of asparagus and white bean risotto.
Creamy Asparagus and White Bean Risotto. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Serving this Creamy Asparagus and White Bean Risotto can change the whole vibe of your holiday meal. Elegant and soothing, the flavors fill the room with gentle spring-like notes, even in November. I’ve noticed it does well with both kids and adults. It’s a main that ends up being just as memorable as pumpkin pie.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Loaded Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Close-up of a dish with crispy tater tots, green bell peppers, and a creamy sauce, topped with fried onions.
Loaded Vegan Tater Tot Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

The moment people spot this Loaded Vegan Tater Tot Casserole, their excitement is contagious. Crunchy on top and comforting underneath, it feels right at home among traditional Thanksgiving dishes. I notice plates piling high with seconds. This recipe makes gatherings feel extra joyful—and everyone asks how you made it.
Get the Recipe: Loaded Vegan Tater Tot Casserole

Savory Mushroom Pie

Four individual pot pies with flaky crusts on a round tray, one open to reveal a mushroom filling.
Savory Mushroom Pie. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Holiday meals take on a rustic, homey feel when you bring out this Savory Mushroom Pie. Deep earthy flavors and a flaky crust make every slice a treat. You’ll watch folks try a bite and immediately go for more. It’s perfect for feeding a hungry group who want something with real depth.
Get the Recipe: Savory Mushroom Pie

Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Sweet corn risotto in a skillet on a wooden cutting board.
Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Guests are intrigued by this Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto because it stands apart from the usual Thanksgiving mains. The blend of sweet and creamy textures creates gentle comfort without being too heavy. I serve extra every year as people always ask if there’s more. Its flavor lingers long in everyone’s memory.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Hearty Vegetable Casserole

A baked casserole with a golden breadcrumb topping, garnished with fresh herbs.
Hearty Vegetable Casserole. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

For a dish that wins over both vegans and non-vegans, this Hearty Vegetable Casserole is a safe bet. Packed with color and warmth, it has an irresistible appeal. Friends tend to talk about how they didn’t miss the turkey at all. One serving is never enough; you’ll see folks reach for just a little more.
Get the Recipe: Hearty Vegetable Casserole

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.

Placing this Stuffed Acorn Squash on the table feels instantly festive, thanks to its autumn colors and textures. The presentation alone draws “oohs” from around the room. People seem curious about what’s packed inside, making every portion a little event. It truly celebrates the season in every bite.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Acorn Squash

Savory Vegan Ham

A glazed meatloaf with a crosshatch pattern sits on a white platter, garnished with parsley. Two slices are cut from one end.
Savory Vegan Ham. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Few things spark more conversation than this Savory Vegan Ham at Thanksgiving. Its rich flavor and hearty texture win over skeptics, especially once slices start disappearing. You can count on friends asking if you’ll share the recipe later. It gives the holiday table something unique and memorable, year after year.
Get the Recipe: Savory Vegan Ham

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