37 Tasty Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes for Everyone in 2025

Thanksgiving used to be all about the turkey. But if you’re hosting Thanksgiving this year, you might want to be prepared — vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes are no longer just for the outliers. According to Campbell’s State of the Sides report, more than half of Americans say they’d rather fill their plates with side dishes than the bird itself.

That change says a lot about how we eat now. For many, the Thanksgiving side dishes are where the real flavor lives. Think creamy potatoes, roasted vegetables with crisp edges and casseroles that are the reason people actually show up. They’re colorful, creative and best of all, plant-forward. The table is changing because the people at it are, too. Between vegetarians, vegans and flexitarians, most hosts now have at least one guest who doesn’t eat meat and everyone else still wants the yummiest vegetarian food possible.

So instead of focusing on what’s missing, embrace what’s worth celebrating. These vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes bring the wow factor to the table, from show-stopping mains to the sides everyone’s secretly here for.

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• Easy Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes
• Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes for Main Dishes Worth the Spotlight
• Healthy & Hearty Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes for Sides
• Delicious Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes for Desserts

Easy Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes

If half the guests at Thanksgiving are secretly here for the sides, these easy vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes are your warm-up act. They’re quick and full of fall color. From crisp bites to creamy soups, they set the tone for a relaxed, modern feast. These vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes show that flavor doesn’t depend on meat — it depends on creativity.

1. Stuffed Mushrooms

Stuffed mushrooms are the little bites that always go first. Simply fill button mushrooms with cream cheese, garlic, Parmesan cheese, breadcrumbs and fresh parsley, then bake until golden. Each one delivers a pop of umami that even meat-eaters can’t resist.

2. Baked Brie with Jam

Nothing says celebration like warm, gooey brie wrapped in puff pastry. You’ll need a wheel of Brie cheese, your favorite jam (think raspberry or fig) and puff pastry. Wrap the Brie in the pastry, top with jam and bake at 400°F for 25 minutes or until golden. 

We recommend serving it with crackers or crusty bread. The gooey brie pairs beautifully with the sweet jam. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleasing appetizer.

3. Dumplings

These pan-seared veggie dumplings bring global flavor to the Thanksgiving table. You’ll need dumpling wrappers, mushrooms, cabbage, carrots, soy sauce and garlic. First, sauté the vegetables and then spoon them into the wrappers and fold.

Steam or pan-fry until crispy. Serve with a soy dipping sauce for a delicious combination of savory vegetables and chewy, crispy dumpling skins, perfect for starting your Thanksgiving meal.

4. Sweet Potato Croquettes

Think of these as the perfect handheld side. You’ll need mashed sweet potatoes, panko breadcrumbs, egg, garlic and paprika. Form the sweet potato mixture into balls, coat in breadcrumbs and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes or until crispy. The result is a savory croquette with a sweet, earthy inside and crunchy exterior, ideal as a side dish or appetizer.

5. Vegan Onion Dip

Forget the packet mix. This dairy-free version blends soaked cashews with caramelized onions, garlic powder and a splash of broth for creaminess. Serve chilled with chips or veggies — proof that plant-based can still mean rich and indulgent.

6. Butternut Squash Soup

Smooth, silky and slightly sweet, this soup brings warmth to the first course. Roast butternut squash, then blend it with sautéed onions, garlic, coconut milk and broth until velvety. The result is a silky, slightly sweet soup that’s perfect for starting your Thanksgiving meal. Garnish with toasted seeds or a drizzle of olive oil for a cozy touch.

7. Beet Salad

For refreshing vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes, try beet salad. Toss roasted beets with arugula, goat cheese and walnuts, then finish with balsamic glaze. The contrast of creamy, crunchy and sweet makes it a standout starter.

8. Air Fryer Potatoes

These crispy baby potatoes are the easiest side you’ll ever make. Toss them with olive oil, garlic powder and rosemary, then air fry at 400°F for 15-20 minutes until golden. They’re fluffy inside, crunchy outside and a delicious side dish for your Thanksgiving spread.

9. Deviled Eggs

A classic vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe, deviled eggs are creamy and tangy. Mix the yolks with mayo, mustard and a hint of vinegar, then spoon back into the whites and dust with paprika.

These savory bites make delicious Thanksgiving appetizers or side dishes with their rich, creamy flavor.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes for Main Dishes Worth the Spotlight

With more people skipping the bird, these vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes prove the main course doesn’t have to revolve around meat. They’re hearty and built for sharing — the kind of dishes that earn their place at the center of the table. From flaky Wellingtons to creamy casseroles, these vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes will turn vegetables into your favorite Thanksgiving food ideas.

10. Vegetarian Mushroom Wellington

When it comes to show-stopping vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes, mushroom Wellington is hard to beat. You’ll need puff pastry, mushrooms, garlic, spinach and Dijon mustard. Sauté the mushrooms and garlic, then layer them with spinach on the puff pastry, adding a smear of Dijon. Wrap it all up and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes until golden. This elegant dish is hearty, flavorful and the perfect centerpiece that carves beautifully. 

11. Tofurky Roast

The original vegan turkey substitute still holds up. A Tofurky roast baked (at 350°F for about 1 hour, basting occasionally) with carrots, potatoes and vegetable broth develops a comforting, meaty flavor that satisfies everyone at the table. Serve it with your favorite gravy and roasted veggies for a complete plant-based main.

And in case you're wondering, Tofurky is a blend of wheat and tofu, so it’s a good option for vegetarians and vegans.

12. Vegetable Pot Pie

A classic vegetable pot pie makes a hearty vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe. You’ll need a pie crust, carrots, peas, potatoes and vegetable broth. Sauté the vegetables, then mix with broth and pour into a pie dish. Top with the crust and bake at 400°F for 30 minutes until golden.

Each bite is warm, flaky and packed with tender vegetables and a creamy filling, which makes it a warm and comforting side or main dish.

13. Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie

A plant-based spin on a cold-weather classic. You’ll need lentils, carrots, peas, mashed potatoes and vegetable broth. Sauté the vegetables and lentils, then layer them in a dish, topped with mashed potatoes. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes until golden. Once baked, the top crisps up while the inside stays hearty and rich. 

14. Squash Lasagna

Looking for comforting vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes? Well, squash lasagna is a creamy and savory choice. It’s like a Vegan Thanksgiving casserole. You’ll need lasagna noodles, butternut squash, ricotta, spinach and mozzarella. Roast the squash, then layer noodles with squash, ricotta and spinach, topping with mozzarella. 

Bake at 375°F for 40 minutes until bubbly (keep a close eye on it). The sweet squash pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese, creating a rich and satisfying dish perfect for a holiday meal.

15. Vegan Mac & Cheese

No dairy, no problem. Cashews and nutritional yeast create a silky “cheese” sauce that coats every noodle in nutty, savory flavor. Bake at 350°F for 15 minutes until bubbly, and you’ve got a vegan main (or side) that feels indulgent but completely plant-based.

16. Lentil Loaf

This loaf is the vegetarian answer to meatloaf — hearty, protein-packed and full of flavor. You’ll need cooked lentils, oats, carrots, onions, garlic, tomato paste and seasonings. Mix the lentils with the other ingredients, then press into a loaf pan. Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until firm.

This savory loaf is rich in protein and fiber, making it a satisfying main course with earthy, spiced flavors, perfect for your fully plant-based vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes.

17. Spicy Roasted Mushrooms with Polenta

A hearty vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe that leans into big flavor without feeling heavy. Roast mushrooms with garlic and chili flakes until they get crispy edges and deep umami, then spoon them over soft, creamy polenta simmered in vegetable broth.

It’s cozy, a little spicy and full of rich, earthy flavor. It works as a standout side or a main dish for anyone skipping the turkey.

18. Squash Tarts

Mini tarts layered with roasted butternut squash, goat cheese and thyme make a perfect small-plate main or elegant side. Simply layer goat cheese and roasted squash on the pastry, then sprinkle with thyme. Bake at 400°F for 20 minutes until golden.

The buttery pastry and caramelized flavors add just the right mix of sweet and savory to any Thanksgiving spread.

Healthy & Hearty Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes for Sides

Sides are where the real creativity happens. Roasted, crisped or baked until bubbling, they’re the vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes everyone circles back to for seconds. Brussels sprouts pick up smoky edges, potatoes turn golden, and even simple carrots or squash feel special with a little maple or spice. They bring balance, color and comfort to every plate. It's proof that the best part of Thanksgiving might not be the main at all.

19. Cranberry Sauce

Homemade cranberry sauce is a bright, tangy addition to any vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe spread. You’ll need fresh cranberries, sugar, orange juice and cinnamon. Simmer the cranberries with sugar, orange juice and cinnamon until they burst and the sauce thickens. You can serve it chilled or warm. The result is tart, sweet and just the right kind of festive.

20. Figs Stuffed with Goat Cheese

Fresh figs filled with creamy goat cheese and drizzled with honey bring a sweet-salty bite to your vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes. You’ll need fresh figs, goat cheese, honey and walnuts. Slice the figs open and stuff with goat cheese, drizzle with honey and top with chopped walnuts. A sprinkle of toasted walnuts adds crunch and warmth, making this one feel simple but special.

21. Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes are effortlessly smooth, fluffy and always welcome. Boil potatoes until tender, mash with butter, cream and roasted garlic, and season generously. Add a handful of chives or herbs for something fresh without changing what everyone loves about the classic.

22. Brussels Sprout Sliders

For a creative vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe, try Brussels sprout sliders. You’ll need roasted Brussels sprouts, avocado, tomatoes and small slider buns. Roast the sprouts, then layer them with avocado and tomato slices on the buns. Add a touch of mustard or aioli for extra flavor.

These bite-sized sliders are flavorful and packed with nutrients, making them a fun and healthy option for your Thanksgiving table.

23. Ombré Gratin

Ombré gratin is a visually stunning vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe. You’ll want to snap a pic for social media before you dig in. You’ll need sweet potatoes, russet potatoes, cream, garlic and Parmesan cheese for this recipe.

Slice the potatoes thinly, layering them in alternating colors in a baking dish. Pour cream and garlic over the top, then sprinkle with the Parmesan. Bake at 375°F for 45 minutes until golden. The alternating layers of color and creamy sauce make this dish both beautiful and delicious.

24. Crispy Smashed Sweet Potatoes

Crispy smashed sweet potatoes are a fun twist on this classic vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe. You’ll need small sweet potatoes, olive oil, garlic and rosemary. Boil the potatoes until tender, then smash them flat. 

Drizzle with oil and sprinkle with garlic and rosemary, then bake at 400°F until crispy. The potatoes will be crispy on the outside, tender on the inside and packed with flavor.

25. Sweet Potato Casserole

A holiday favorite that walks the line between side and Thanksgiving dessert. You’ll need sweet potatoes, butter, brown sugar, cinnamon and marshmallows. Mash the cooked sweet potatoes with butter and sugar, spread in a dish and top with marshmallows. 

Bake the casserole at 350°F for 25 minutes until the marshmallows are golden. The sweet, fluffy potatoes and toasted marshmallow topping make this a festive, crowd-pleasing side dish.

26. Vegan Twice-Baked Potatoes

All the creaminess of the classic without the dairy. Scoop out baked potatoes, mix the insides with vegan butter, almond milk and nutritional yeast, then bake again until golden and crisp on top. creamy, cozy and completely plant-based.

27. Mushroom Piccata

Lemon, capers and mushrooms might sound simple, but they create serious depth of flavor. You’ll need mushrooms, lemon, capers, garlic and vegetable broth. Sauté the mushrooms with garlic, then add lemon juice, capers and broth to create a zesty sauce. Simmer until the sauce reduces. The mushrooms soak up the tangy, lemony flavors of the sauce, making this dish a bright and flavorful addition to your holiday spread.

28. Roasted Acorn Squash

Roasting acorn squash brings out its natural sweetness. Toss slices with olive oil, maple syrup and cinnamon, then bake at 400°F for 30 minutes until tender and caramelized. It adds a soft, glowing color and a hit of autumn warmth to the table.

Delicious Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes for Desserts

Dessert is where the whole day slows down. Pies cool on the counter, chocolate sets in the fridge and the smell of spice lingers in the kitchen. From classic pumpkin to fragrant chai cake, these vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes close the meal on a note that feels generous and homemade.

29. Pumpkin Pie

Turkey may take the spotlight (for now anyway), but pumpkin pie is what everyone’s really waiting for. It’s the classic that anchors every table — smooth, spiced and baked in a buttery crust that just tastes like Thanksgiving.

Whisk together pumpkin puree, eggs, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg and cream, then pour into your crust and bake at 350°F until just set. It's simple, rich and unmistakably festive.

30. Chocolate Hazelnut Tart

Dark chocolate and toasted hazelnuts make an effortlessly elegant ending. You’ll need a tart crust, dark chocolate, hazelnuts, heavy cream and vanilla. Melt the chocolate with cream and vanilla, then pour it into the baked crust and top with toasted hazelnuts. Chill until set.

The smooth, silky chocolate pairs beautifully with the crunchy hazelnuts, making this tart an elegant ending to any Thanksgiving meal.

31. Pumpkin Tiramisu

A fall twist on the Italian classic. You’ll need ladyfingers, pumpkin puree, mascarpone, sugar, espresso and cinnamon. Soak the ladyfingers in espresso, then layer them with a pumpkin-mascarpone mixture, and dust with cinnamon. Chill for a few hours to allow the flavors to develop. 

The creamy, spiced pumpkin filling and coffee-soaked ladyfingers create a unique, indulgent dessert for your holiday table.

32. Cheesecake

Cheesecake is a rich and creamy vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe that’s sure to please. You’ll need cream cheese, sugar, eggs, vanilla and a graham cracker crust. Beat the cream cheese with sugar, then add eggs and vanilla. Pour the mixture into the crust and bake at 325°F for about 60 minutes. Top with cranberry sauce or salted caramel for a festive touch.

33. Apple Pie

Apple pie never really leaves the table — it just reminds everyone why they love Thanksgiving in the first place. Slice fresh apples, toss them with cinnamon and sugar, then bake them in a buttery crust until golden and bubbling.

Serve it warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream and let the smell alone do half the work.

34. Banana Bread

Banana bread is a warm and comforting vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe that never gets old. You’ll need ripe bananas, flour, sugar, eggs, butter and baking soda. Mash the bananas and mix with the other ingredients, then bake at 350°F for about 60 minutes.

The result is a moist, flavorful bread with a hint of sweetness, making it an ideal holiday treat. Serve it as a dessert or even as a quick breakfast option during the busy holiday season.

35. Oat Milk Chocolate Pudding

This scrumptious pudding is a creamy, dairy-free vegetarian Thanksgiving recipe. You’ll need oat milk, cocoa powder, cornstarch, sugar and vanilla. Whisk together the oat milk, cocoa and sugar, then simmer until thickened, adding cornstarch to achieve the desired consistency. Chill the pudding and top with whipped coconut cream.

36. Chai Cake

All the cozy flavors of fall in one slice. Brewed chai, cardamom, ginger and cinnamon turn a simple batter into something that smells like the season itself.

Bake until golden, then finish with a dusting of powdered sugar or a light glaze. It’s soft, spiced and just the right mix of simple and special.

37. Spiced Pears

Pears simmered in red wine with cloves and honey until tender and glossy. Serve warm in their syrup or chilled with a scoop of nondairy ice cream. The sweet, spiced pears make a lovely dessert or side dish, with their natural sweetness enhanced by the warm, holiday-inspired spices.

Thanksgiving is changing, and that’s a good thing. The table feels a little brighter, the flavors a little bolder and everyone has something they can truly enjoy. From creative mains to colorful sides and desserts that taste like fall, these vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes prove the holiday spirit isn’t tied to the turkey. It’s about sharing food that feels generous, thoughtful and made with care.

Each dish adds its own flavor to a festive, plant-based celebration. Pair them with a few Thanksgiving cocktails or a fresh Thanksgiving salad for balance. If you’re feeling pressed for time, try simple veggie tray ideas or even a few non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes for something unexpected.

So fill your table with dishes that tell your story, pour another glass, and enjoy the kind of feast that leaves everyone full and happy.

For even more fun Thanksgiving ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!