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The Ultimate Guide to an Unforgettable Vegan Thanksgiving Feast: 50+ Plant-Based Recipes from Breakfast to Dessert

The anticipation is over! The comprehensive collection you’ve been eagerly awaiting is finally here: over 50 delectable vegan and plant-based Thanksgiving recipes to make your holiday truly extraordinary. Get ready to celebrate a Thanksgiving Day filled with incredible flavors, comforting classics, and innovative dishes that will delight every guest at your table, whether they’re seasoned vegans or simply curious food lovers. From a festive morning breakfast to show-stopping main courses, an abundance of savory sides, vibrant salads, decadent desserts, and even celebratory drinks, we’ve curated everything you need for the perfect plant-based celebration.

Preparing a grand Thanksgiving meal can feel daunting, but many of these recipes are designed with convenience in mind. You can prepare a significant number of them a day or even two days in advance, drastically lightening your workload on the big day. Generally, most dishes can be prepped ahead of time, then simply finished with their respective toppings or baked when you’re ready to serve. Our goal is to make your Thanksgiving cooking experience as effortless and enjoyable as possible. So, dive in, explore these mouth-watering options, and get ready to eat up! Please note: while some titles may reference “vegan and vegetarian,” every single recipe in this updated collection has been specifically adapted and verified to be 100% vegan.

A montage of vegan thanksgiving recipes with text.

BREAKFAST

Start your Thanksgiving Day with a burst of flavor and comfort with these delightful vegan breakfast recipes. Whether you need a quick bite before the cooking frenzy begins or a more leisurely meal to enjoy with family, these dishes are packed with autumnal spices and wholesome ingredients to energize you for the festive day ahead.

Pumpkin Spice Granola

Infuse your kitchen with the cozy aroma of fall with this healthy pumpkin spice granola. Perfect for a light breakfast or a midday snack, this crunchy granola is loaded with seasonal flavors and is wonderfully versatile. Enjoy it with plant-based yogurt, fresh fruit, or simply by the handful. It’s an excellent make-ahead option to simplify your morning!

Pumpkin Waffles

Elevate your holiday breakfast with these fluffy and flavorful pumpkin waffles. Made without flour, these vegan waffles are a delicious and surprisingly light way to enjoy the festive spirit. Serve them warm with a drizzle of maple syrup, a sprinkle of cinnamon, and perhaps a dollop of coconut whipped cream for an indulgent start to Thanksgiving.

Overnight Baked French Toast Casserole

Simplify your Thanksgiving morning with this incredibly easy and delicious overnight baked French toast casserole. Prepare it the night before, let it soak up all the custardy goodness, and then simply bake it in the morning. This vegan version offers all the classic comfort and flavor of traditional French toast with minimal effort on the day of your celebration.

Pumpkin French Toast

Take your French toast game to the next level with this delightful pumpkin variation. Infused with pure pumpkin and warming spices, these vegan pumpkin French toast slices are soft, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. They’re a fantastic way to embrace autumn flavors and make any breakfast feel special, especially on Thanksgiving morning.

Pumpkin Pancakes

Fluffy, golden, and bursting with pumpkin flavor, these gluten-free pumpkin pancakes are a breakfast dream. Light and airy, they make for a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for fueling up before a busy day of holiday festivities. Drizzle generously with maple syrup and enjoy a stack of these seasonal delights.

Apple Pie Pancakes

Why wait for dessert when you can have apple pie for breakfast? These flourless apple pie pancakes capture all the warm, spiced flavors of a classic apple pie in a light and fluffy pancake form. They are a delightful twist on a breakfast staple, offering a taste of comforting autumn goodness with every bite.

MAINS

No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a spectacular main dish. These vegan entrees prove that plant-based options can be just as, if not more, satisfying and flavorful than traditional holiday centerpieces. From hearty roasts to comforting casseroles, these recipes are designed to impress and provide a truly memorable focal point for your celebration.

Vegan Meatloaf

This vegan meatloaf is a fantastic, comforting main course that will satisfy even the most traditional palates. Rich, savory, and perfectly textured, this gluten-free meatloaf is seasoned to perfection and holds its shape beautifully. It’s an excellent alternative to a holiday roast, offering a hearty and deeply satisfying centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table.

Pot Pies (Vegan)

Individually portioned and incredibly comforting, these vegan pot pies are a delightful main dish option. Filled with a creamy, savory vegetable medley and topped with a flaky, golden crust, they offer a personal touch to your holiday meal. These gluten-free pot pies are not only delicious but also wonderfully presented, making them perfect for guests.

Vegan pot pies in white ramekins on a sheet pan.

Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Prepare to be amazed by this hearty and incredibly flavorful vegan shepherd’s pie. It’s layered with a rich, savory plant-based filling and crowned with a fluffy, golden mashed potato topping. This dish has a proven track record of converting skeptics – my aunt was absolutely shocked there was no meat and immediately asked for seconds! This gluten-free version is a true crowd-pleaser and an ultimate comfort food for your holiday table.

Butternut Squash Casserole

This vibrant butternut squash pasta bake cleverly doubles as a comforting casserole, making it a fantastic and unique main dish for Thanksgiving. It’s loaded with beautifully roasted butternut squash, sweet tomatoes, earthy mushrooms, and tender onions, all roasted to perfection. The roasted butternut squash is then transformed into a silky puree, which is generously poured over pasta and combined with some vegan cheese. A healthy handful of kale rounds out this creamy, flavorful, and complete meal, offering a delightful alternative to traditional holiday mains.

Stuffed Bell Peppers

Bright, colorful, and incredibly satisfying, these easy quinoa stuffed bell peppers make a wonderful individual main course option. Filled with a flavorful, protein-packed Tex-Mex inspired quinoa mixture, they are both wholesome and delicious. These peppers are a lighter yet still incredibly fulfilling choice that adds a beautiful presentation to your Thanksgiving spread.

Four quinoa stuffed peppers in a white baking dish.

Coconut Chickpea Curry

You might not typically consider curry for Thanksgiving, but this creamy coconut chickpea curry has become a surprising holiday hit among readers! Many shared last year how much they loved it as their Thanksgiving main, and it makes perfect sense. Its rich, aromatic sauce is absolutely divine when served over fluffy mashed potatoes, making it a uniquely flavorful and incredibly comforting centerpiece. It offers a wonderful blend of spices and textures that stands out from more traditional holiday fare.

SALADS

Bring freshness and balance to your rich Thanksgiving spread with these vibrant vegan salads. Packed with crisp vegetables, wholesome grains, and tantalizing dressings, these recipes offer a refreshing counterpoint to the heavier dishes, ensuring your meal is well-rounded and bursting with diverse textures and flavors.

Cashew Thai Quinoa Salad with Peanut Ginger Sauce

This Cashew Thai Quinoa Salad is a symphony of flavors and textures, featuring crunchy cashews, vibrant vegetables, and wholesome quinoa, all brought together with an irresistible peanut ginger sauce. It’s a refreshing and exotic addition to your Thanksgiving table, offering a lighter yet incredibly satisfying option that bursts with an array of aromatic spices and a delightful tang.

Chickpea Panzanella Salad

Reinventing a classic, this chickpea panzanella salad is packed with juicy tomatoes, crisp cucumbers, tender chickpeas, and crusty bread pieces that soak up the delicious dressing. It’s a hearty yet fresh salad that offers a satisfying texture and a burst of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, making it a standout side dish or even a light main for your holiday gathering.

Roasted Beet Feta Salad with Honey Mustard Vinaigrette

Add a pop of color and earthy sweetness to your holiday menu with this roasted beet salad. Featuring tender, roasted beets, savory vegan feta, and a bright, tangy honey mustard vinaigrette, this salad is both visually stunning and incredibly delicious. It’s a sophisticated side that offers a lovely contrast to other rich Thanksgiving dishes.

Shaved Brussels Sprouts, Quinoa and Apple Salad with Sweet Orange Vinaigrette

This salad is a celebration of autumn’s finest ingredients. Thinly shaved Brussels sprouts, fluffy quinoa, and crisp apple pieces create a delightful blend of textures, all coated in a bright and sweet orange vinaigrette. It’s a surprisingly hearty yet refreshing salad that perfectly complements the rich flavors of a Thanksgiving meal, offering a vibrant and wholesome addition.

Pouring vinaigrette onto shaved brussels sprouts, quinoa and apple salad.

15-Minute Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

For a quick, easy, and incredibly flavorful addition to your Thanksgiving spread, look no further than this 15-minute Mediterranean chickpea salad. Packed with fresh vegetables, protein-rich chickpeas, and a zesty dressing, it’s a bright and refreshing dish that provides a healthy contrast. It’s also excellent for meal prep, making your holiday cooking even simpler.

Kale Apple and Chickpea Salad with Vegan Feta

This vibrant kale, apple, and chickpea salad with vegan feta is an absolute flavor powerhouse! It’s brimming with amazing textures, from the crisp apples to the hearty chickpeas and tender kale. Dressed in a light vinaigrette, this salad is loaded with protein, offers a delightful balance of sweet and crunchy elements, and makes for a fantastic meal prep option or a refreshing side dish for your Thanksgiving feast.

Overhead shot of chickpea salad on a long blue plate.

SIDES

The heart of any Thanksgiving meal lies in its glorious spread of side dishes. These vegan sides are crafted to deliver maximum flavor, comfort, and festive cheer, proving that traditional favorites can be perfectly plant-based. From creamy casseroles to fluffy breads and savory roasted vegetables, these recipes will ensure your holiday table is abundant and utterly delicious.

Easy Stovetop Candied Pecans

These easy stovetop candied pecans are a delightful addition to any Thanksgiving table. Sweet, crunchy, and incredibly addictive, they make a fantastic garnish for salads, a topping for desserts, or simply a delicious snack for guests to nibble on. Plus, they come together quickly on the stovetop, saving you oven space!

Green Bean Casserole

What’s Thanksgiving without green bean casserole? This beloved classic is reimagined as a completely vegan dish, made 100% from scratch. You’ll adore how incredibly creamy the sauce is, enveloping tender green beans, and the star of the show – crispy, oven-fried onions on top! It’s pure comfort and a must-have for your holiday spread, guaranteed to evoke nostalgic feelings without any dairy or cream.

Sweet Potato Casserole with Maple Pecan Topping

This sweet potato casserole has consistently been a top favorite among readers for Thanksgiving side dishes, and for good reason! It allows you to savor all the rich, comforting flavors of sweet potato casserole but without the guilt of extra calories. The creamy sweet potato base is phenomenal, but the true game-changer is the maple pecan topping – it’s utterly out of this world, adding a crunchy, sweet dimension that’s simply irresistible.

Best Garlic Mashed Potatoes with Caramelised Onions

I cannot express enough how much I adore these mashed potatoes! They are incredibly creamy, smooth, and, as we all know, mashed potatoes are the quintessential side that pairs perfectly with virtually every component of a Thanksgiving meal. But here’s the secret: you absolutely *must* make them with the caramelized onions. That addition transforms them into something truly golden and unforgettable – a sweet, savory complement to the garlicky richness.

Fluffy Biscuits

These biscuits are unbelievably fluffy, tender, and, yes, they’re also gluten-free! In fact, most of the recipes in this guide offer gluten-free adaptations or are naturally so. While you can certainly make them with regular flour, the true magic lies in the very idea of warm, freshly baked biscuits for your holiday meal! They are so good and surprisingly easy to whip up. Don’t be shy with the vegan butter!

Cornbread Stuffing

When I first made this cornbread stuffing, it brought so much joy, literally making my whole week! It’s crafted with homemade cornbread (though you can use store-bought for convenience) and packed with an incredible array of amazing, savory flavors. This stuffing truly captures the essence of traditional cornbread stuffing, offering a comforting and flavorful side that feels deeply nostalgic and utterly satisfying for your holiday feast.

Loaded Sweet Potato Skins

If you’re a regular here, you already know my absolute love for these loaded sweet potato skins! For newcomers, let me tell you, you NEED to make these! The sweet potato skins are generously refilled with a creamy sweet potato filling, complemented by a zesty Tex-Mex inspired blend, and then gloriously topped with savory coconut bacon. They are so incredibly good, offering a burst of flavors and textures that will be an instant favorite among your guests.

Easy Cheesy Cornbread Skillet

Oh, YUM is right! This cheesy cornbread skillet is everything you adore about classic cornbread, but with an unbeatable crust that takes it to another level. The combination of melted vegan butter, a hot cast iron skillet, and the rich cornbread batter creates a crust that is extra crispy and wonderfully buttery. We’ve also loaded this cornbread with vegan cheese, sweet corn, and a hint of jalapeños for an extra amazing flavor profile. Prepare to truly wow your guests with this delightful, savory side!

Maple Roasted Brussels Sprouts, Onions & Apples

This recipe is an oldie but a true goldie, and a surefire way to win over even the pickiest eaters when it comes to Brussels sprouts! If you already love them, you’ll absolutely adore this dish. For those who claim not to, prepare for a change of heart! The sweet, caramelized roasted apples and onions perfectly complement the slightly bitter Brussels sprouts, creating a harmonious and incredibly delicious side dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving.

Cranberry Orange Sauce

Okay, so while not technically a side *dish* in itself, this cranberry orange sauce is an absolutely ESSENTIAL component that complements almost every single thing on your Thanksgiving plate. The addition of fresh orange juice elevates the classic cranberry flavor, adding a bright, zesty dimension that makes it truly exceptional. This homemade sauce is infinitely better than canned and is crucial for a complete holiday experience.

Jalapeño Cornbread Muffins

Imagine all the comfort and flavor of cornbread, but in perfectly portioned, individual muffins! These jalapeño cornbread muffins are an ideal way to share this delicious side with your guests, making it easy for everyone to grab more than one. The subtle kick from the jalapeños adds an exciting twist to the classic, making them even more irresistible.

Stuffed Mushrooms with Coconut Bacon

I truly LOVE this recipe for stuffed mushrooms! They are loaded with all the rich, savory flavors you’d expect from traditional stuffed mushrooms, making them perfect as a side dish or even as an elegant appetizer for your Thanksgiving gathering. And by the way, that crispy, smoky coconut bacon on top is absolutely essential – it adds an incredible layer of texture and taste. You’ll probably want to put it on everything once you try it!

Garlic Butter Roasted Potatoes

Butter, garlic, and potatoes – could there be a more perfect combination? These garlic butter roasted potatoes are a resounding YES! There’s not much more to say for this dish other than they are wonderfully crispy on the outside, soft and buttery on the inside, and they come together so incredibly quickly. They are a universal crowd-pleaser and a staple side for any holiday meal.

Maple Garlic Roasted Carrots

Oh, I absolutely need to make these maple garlic roasted carrots again this Thanksgiving! These carrots are beautifully glazed with maple syrup and infused with garlic, giving them a wonderfully sweet, subtly caramel-y flavor and a tender, soft texture. What truly elevates them is the fresh carrot greens chimichurri topping – it’s truly out of this world, adding a burst of herbaceous freshness. If you can find multi-colored carrots, they’ll make this dish even more visually stunning on your holiday table.

Vegan Mushroom Gravy

While not a standalone side dish, this vegan mushroom gravy is an indispensable component of any Thanksgiving feast – it’s absolutely necessary! This gravy is incredibly creamy, rich, and boasts an explosion of umami flavor that will amaze you. It’s, of course, perfect draped over mashed potatoes, but it also elevates everything from biscuits to stuffing. Plus, you can easily make it ahead of time, freeing up your last-minute cooking schedule.

Baked Mac and Cheese

Finally, you absolutely need a baked mac and cheese at your Thanksgiving dinner – it’s a non-negotiable comfort food! This particular recipe is SO good (how many times have I exclaimed that already?). I adore the depth of flavor the creamy vegan sauce provides, and the crispy, golden topping works so incredibly well, adding an extra layer of deliciousness. This gluten-free version ensures everyone can enjoy a generous helping of this beloved classic.

DESSERTS

End your Thanksgiving feast on a high note with these absolutely irresistible vegan desserts. From classic pies to innovative sweet treats, these recipes capture the comforting essence of holiday indulgence without any dairy or eggs. Get ready for a parade of pumpkin, apple, and chocolate creations that will satisfy every sweet tooth and leave your guests wanting more.

Pumpkin Pie

No Thanksgiving is truly complete without a classic pumpkin pie, and this vegan, gluten-free version delivers all the creamy, spiced goodness you crave. With its rich, smooth pumpkin filling nestled in a flaky crust, it’s the quintessential holiday dessert that will bring a smile to everyone’s face. Serve it with a dollop of vegan whipped cream for pure bliss.

Cranberry Apple Crisp

This cranberry apple crisp is a celebration of seasonal fruits, combining tart cranberries with sweet apples under a delightful, crunchy oat topping. This vegan and gluten-free dessert offers a warm, comforting, and slightly tangy finish to your holiday meal. It’s particularly wonderful served warm with a scoop of dairy-free vanilla ice cream.

Apple Pie Bars

For a delightful, handheld twist on a classic, these vegan apple pie bars are absolutely perfect. They feature a buttery, tender crust, a luscious spiced apple filling, and a sweet streusel topping, all in a convenient bar form. Easy to serve and even easier to eat, they capture all the cozy flavors of apple pie without the need for forks and plates.

Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake Swirl Brownies

Indulge in the best of both worlds with these decadent vegan pumpkin cheesecake swirl brownies. Fudgy chocolate brownies are beautifully swirled with a creamy, spiced pumpkin cheesecake batter, creating a dessert that is rich, comforting, and visually stunning. This fusion dessert is an absolute showstopper and a perfect autumnal treat for your Thanksgiving celebration.

Overhead view of pumpkin cheesecake swirl brownies.

Vegan Chocolate Chip Pumpkin Bread

Moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful, this vegan chocolate chip pumpkin bread is a delightful blend of comforting pumpkin spice and sweet chocolate chips. It’s perfect for a Thanksgiving dessert, a festive breakfast, or even a cozy afternoon treat. Easy to make and universally loved, it’s a wonderfully aromatic addition to your holiday baking repertoire.

Baked Apples Stuffed with Oat Crisp

These elegant baked apples stuffed with oat crisp offer a comforting and wholesome dessert option. Tender, sweet apples are cored and filled with a delicious, spiced cinnamon oat crisp, then baked until soft and bubbling. They’re naturally beautiful, incredibly flavorful, and make a fantastic individual dessert, especially when served warm with a scoop of vegan ice cream.

3-Ingredient Vegan Caramel Sauce

This incredible 3-ingredient vegan caramel sauce is an absolute game-changer for your holiday desserts. Rich, smooth, and perfectly sweet, it’s surprisingly easy to make and tastes just like traditional caramel. Drizzle it over apple pie, baked apples, ice cream, or even your morning pancakes for an extra touch of indulgence. It’s a versatile staple you’ll want to have on hand!

Gluten Free Pie Crust

Every fantastic pie starts with an equally fantastic crust, and this gluten-free vegan pie crust is truly exceptional. Flaky, tender, and easy to work with, it provides the perfect base for all your favorite Thanksgiving pies, from pumpkin to apple. Don’t let dietary restrictions stop you from enjoying a homemade pie – this recipe ensures a delicious result every time.

Cinnamon Baked Pears

For a lighter yet equally comforting dessert, these cinnamon baked pears are simply divine. Soft, sweet pears are gently baked with warming cinnamon until tender and fragrant. They offer a naturally sweet and elegant finish to your Thanksgiving meal, and are wonderful on their own or served with a drizzle of vegan caramel sauce or a scoop of plant-based ice cream.

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins

Please note: The image provided here is for “Vegan Chocolate Chip Cookies.” While these muffins are delicious, you can find the correct recipe for Vegan Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Muffins at the link. These muffins combine the classic flavors of pumpkin spice with delightful bursts of chocolate chips, creating a moist, tender, and utterly irresistible treat. Perfect for breakfast, dessert, or a snack, they’re a cozy autumnal staple.

Pumpkin Sugar Cookies

Soft, chewy, and spiced with warm pumpkin flavors, these vegan and gluten-free pumpkin sugar cookies are a festive delight. They’re perfect for decorating with holiday-themed icing or simply enjoying plain with a cup of coffee or tea. These adorable cookies make a wonderful addition to any dessert platter and are sure to be a hit with guests of all ages.

Drinks

Complete your festive Thanksgiving experience with these delicious and warming vegan drink recipes. Whether you’re looking for a sophisticated alcoholic option or a comforting non-alcoholic beverage, these drinks are perfect for setting a celebratory mood and complementing the rich flavors of your holiday meal.

Red Wine Apple Cider Fall Sangria

This red wine apple cider fall sangria is the ultimate festive drink for your Thanksgiving gathering. Infused with seasonal fruits, warm spices, and the delightful blend of red wine and apple cider, it’s a sophisticated yet incredibly easy-to-make beverage. It’s perfect for sharing, adding a touch of elegance and warmth to your holiday celebration.

Warm Spiced Apple Cider

Nothing says cozy fall like a mug of warm spiced apple cider. This comforting non-alcoholic beverage is infused with aromatic spices, creating a fragrant and delicious drink that’s perfect for guests of all ages. It’s an inviting way to welcome everyone to your home and adds a lovely, warming touch to your Thanksgiving festivities.