Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipes

Thanksgiving is a time for gathering around the table, sharing stories, and indulging in comfort foods that warm the heart and soul. For those following a gluten-free lifestyle, the holiday meal can sometimes feel limiting or complicated—but it doesn’t have to be! With the right recipes, you can create a delicious, festive, and entirely gluten-free Thanksgiving spread that delights every guest.

This collection features some of the best gluten-free Thanksgiving recipes—from fluffy and savory stuffing to buttery, flaky gluten-free pie crusts, and a variety of hearty side dishes packed with seasonal flavors. Each recipe is crafted to bring warmth, comfort, and celebration to your holiday table without compromising taste or texture.

Get ready to enjoy a stress-free, gluten-free holiday meal that’s bursting with flavor and perfect for all your family and friends.

Why Choose Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipes?

Choosing gluten-free recipes is essential for individuals with celiac disease, gluten sensitivity, or those simply preferring to avoid gluten for wellness reasons. Gluten, a protein found in wheat, barley, and rye, can cause digestive discomfort or other health issues for many people.

Gluten-free Thanksgiving recipes ensure:

• Safe and inclusive dining for guests with dietary restrictions.

• Delicious alternatives to traditional wheat-based dishes.

• Creative use of naturally gluten-free ingredients like rice, potatoes, nuts, and gluten-free flours.

• Healthy and wholesome meals full of real food and fresh ingredients.

Essential Gluten-Free Ingredients for Holiday Cooking

When preparing a gluten-free Thanksgiving, stock up on these staples:

• Gluten-free bread or bread crumbs (for stuffing)

• Almond flour, rice flour, or gluten-free all-purpose flour blends

• Cornstarch or arrowroot powder (for thickening)

• Gluten-free oats (check labels)

• Fresh herbs and spices

• Natural thickeners like potato starch or tapioca

• Fresh vegetables, fruits, nuts, and seeds

Fluffy Gluten-Free Stuffing Recipe

No Thanksgiving is complete without stuffing, and this gluten-free version is just as satisfying as the traditional one.

Ingredients:

• 1 loaf gluten-free bread, cubed and dried (about 6 cups)

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter or olive oil

• 1 medium onion, finely chopped

• 3 celery stalks, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh sage, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped (or 1 tsp dried)

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried)

• 2 cups gluten-free vegetable or chicken broth

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: 1 cup chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) or dried cranberries for texture and flavor

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread gluten-free bread cubes on a baking sheet and toast for 10-15 minutes until dry and slightly golden.

2. In a large skillet, melt butter or heat olive oil over medium heat.

3. Add onion and celery; sauté until soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.

4. Stir in garlic and herbs; cook 1 minute more.

5. In a large mixing bowl, combine toasted bread cubes with sautéed vegetables.

6. Slowly add broth, stirring gently until bread is moist but not soggy.

7. Season with salt and pepper. Fold in nuts or cranberries if using.

8. Transfer stuffing to a greased baking dish and cover with foil.

9. Bake for 25 minutes, then remove foil and bake another 10 minutes until top is golden and slightly crispy.

Serving Suggestion: Serve alongside turkey or roasted vegetables for a hearty addition to your gluten-free Thanksgiving plate.

Gluten-Free Pie Crust for Pumpkin and Apple Pies

A flaky, buttery crust is key to any great pie—and this gluten-free pie crust delivers just that, perfect for your favorite pumpkin or apple pie recipes.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/4 cups gluten-free all-purpose flour blend

• 1/4 tsp xanthan gum (if your flour blend doesn’t contain it)

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/2 cup cold unsalted butter, cubed

• 1 large egg

• 2-4 tbsp ice-cold water

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together flour, xanthan gum (if needed), and salt.

2. Cut in cold butter using a pastry cutter or your fingers until mixture resembles coarse crumbs.

3. Beat the egg and add it to the mixture.

4. Add ice water 1 tablespoon at a time, mixing gently until the dough comes together but isn’t sticky.

5. Form dough into a disk, wrap in plastic wrap, and chill for at least 1 hour.

6. Roll out on a lightly floured surface (using gluten-free flour) to fit your pie dish.

7. Fill with your favorite gluten-free pie filling and bake according to pie recipe instructions.

Pro Tip: To prevent soggy crusts, pre-bake (blind bake) your crust for 10 minutes before adding filling.

Hearty Gluten-Free Mashed Potato Casserole

This creamy, cheesy mashed potato casserole is an irresistible side dish that’s naturally gluten-free and will please everyone at the table.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• 1 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt

• 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1/2 cup chopped green onions

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: gluten-free crispy fried onions for topping

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.

2. Drain and mash potatoes until smooth.

3. Stir in butter, sour cream, cheddar, Parmesan, and green onions.

4. Season with salt and pepper.

5. Transfer to a greased casserole dish.

6. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes until hot and bubbly.

7. Top with gluten-free crispy onions during the last 5 minutes for extra crunch.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Maple Glaze (Gluten-Free & Vegan)

A sweet and savory roasted side dish that pairs perfectly with any Thanksgiving entrée.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp pure maple syrup

• 1 tsp Dijon mustard

• 1/2 tsp garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.

3. Roast for 20-25 minutes until crisp on the outside and tender inside.

4. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder.

5. Drizzle maple glaze over roasted Brussels sprouts and toss gently.

6. Return to oven for 5 more minutes to caramelize glaze.

Creamy Gluten-Free Green Bean Casserole

A classic holiday side with a gluten-free twist—creamy, comforting, and full of flavor.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 small onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 8 oz mushrooms, sliced

• 1/4 cup gluten-free flour blend

• 1 1/2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (gluten-free)

• 1 cup half-and-half or milk

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Gluten-free crispy fried onions for topping

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

2. Blanch green beans in boiling salted water for 3-4 minutes, then drain.

3. In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter and sauté onion and garlic until translucent.

4. Add mushrooms and cook until softened.

5. Stir in gluten-free flour and cook 1-2 minutes.

6. Gradually whisk in broth and half-and-half; simmer until thickened.

7. Season with salt and pepper.

8. Combine sauce with green beans and transfer to a baking dish.

9. Top with crispy fried onions.

10. Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden on top.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipes

What gluten-free bread works best for stuffing?

Day-old gluten-free sandwich bread or baguette-style bread works best. Toast cubes to dry them out before using.

Can I substitute gluten-free flour in any recipe?

Yes, but be mindful of xanthan gum or other binders. Use a well-balanced gluten-free flour blend for best results.

How do I avoid soggy pie crusts when using gluten-free dough?

Blind bake your crust for 10 minutes before filling to prevent sogginess.

Are gluten-free crispy fried onions easy to find?

Many grocery stores carry gluten-free crispy onions, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour or breadcrumbs.

Can these recipes be made dairy-free?

Yes! Substitute dairy butter with plant-based alternatives and use coconut cream or almond milk instead of dairy products.

Final Thoughts: Enjoy a Safe and Delicious Gluten-Free Thanksgiving

Celebrating Thanksgiving gluten-free doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor or tradition. With these stuffing, pie crust, and side dish recipes, you can prepare a wholesome, festive meal that everyone will enjoy. From savory stuffing to flaky pie crusts and comforting casseroles, these recipes showcase the best of holiday cooking—without gluten and without compromise.

Make your holiday stress-free and delicious with these simple, adaptable, and crowd-pleasing gluten-free dishes.