Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes (plant-based feast)

Celebrate a Compassionate and Delicious Vegan Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to gather with loved ones and share a meal that expresses gratitude and warmth. If you’re embracing a plant-based lifestyle or simply want to try a cruelty-free holiday feast, these vegan Thanksgiving recipes will inspire your menu with bold flavors, comforting textures, and beautiful presentations.

This collection offers a complete vegan Thanksgiving spread—from hearty main dishes like stuffed squash and savory lentil loaves to vibrant sides and decadent plant-based pies. Each recipe is thoughtfully crafted to showcase seasonal produce and wholesome ingredients that will delight vegans and non-vegans alike.

Celebrate a nourishing, festive holiday that’s kind to animals, gentle on the planet, and bursting with flavor.

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Why Choose Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes?

Opting for a vegan Thanksgiving meal is a powerful choice to:

• Reduce environmental impact by focusing on plant-based foods.

• Offer inclusive options for guests with dietary restrictions.

• Experience the creativity and versatility of plant-based cooking.

• Enjoy nutrient-rich foods full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.

These recipes demonstrate that a vegan feast can be as festive, satisfying, and comforting as traditional holiday fare.

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Stuffed Acorn Squash with Quinoa and Cranberries

This colorful stuffed squash dish makes a stunning centerpiece, full of textures and flavors that celebrate fall.

Ingredients:

• 2 acorn squashes, halved and seeded

• 1 cup quinoa, rinsed

• 2 cups vegetable broth

• 1/2 cup dried cranberries

• 1/2 cup chopped pecans or walnuts

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tsp ground cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Place acorn squash halves cut-side down on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.

3. Roast for 30-40 minutes until tender.

4. Meanwhile, cook quinoa in vegetable broth according to package instructions; fluff with a fork.

5. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until translucent.

6. Stir in cranberries, nuts, cinnamon, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.

7. Combine quinoa with sautéed mixture.

8. Remove squash from oven and carefully turn cut-side up.

9. Fill each half with quinoa mixture and return to oven for 10 minutes to warm through.

10. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

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Hearty Lentil Loaf with Mushroom Gravy

A savory and protein-packed centerpiece perfect for a vegan holiday meal.

Ingredients for Lentil Loaf:

• 1 1/2 cups cooked green or brown lentils

• 1 cup cooked quinoa or brown rice

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms

• 1 cup grated carrot

• 1/2 cup rolled oats (certified gluten-free if needed)

• 1/4 cup ground flaxseed mixed with 3/4 cup water (flax egg)

• 3 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients for Mushroom Gravy:

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup sliced mushrooms

• 2 tbsp gluten-free all-purpose flour

• 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth

• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Lentil Loaf:

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions, garlic, and mushrooms until soft.

3. In a large bowl, mash lentils lightly with a fork.

4. Add cooked quinoa/rice, sautéed veggies, carrot, oats, flax egg, tomato paste, soy sauce, and spices.

5. Mix thoroughly until combined.

6. Press mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan.

7. Bake for 45-50 minutes until firm and golden on top.

Mushroom Gravy:

1. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.

2. Sauté mushrooms until browned.

3. Stir in flour and cook for 2 minutes.

4. Gradually whisk in vegetable broth and soy sauce.

5. Simmer until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Serve warm gravy over lentil loaf slices.

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Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Smooth, fluffy, and rich without any dairy—this recipe uses plant-based milk and olive oil to create perfect mashed potatoes.

Ingredients:

• 3 lbs Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and cubed

• 1/2 cup unsweetened almond milk or oat milk, warmed

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Fresh chives or parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

2. Drain and return to pot.

3. Mash potatoes with a potato masher.

4. Stir in warmed plant-based milk, olive oil, and garlic.

5. Season with salt and pepper.

6. Garnish with fresh herbs before serving.

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Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze

A simple, flavorful side bursting with caramelized goodness.

Ingredients:

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

• 3 tbsp olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Toss Brussels sprouts with olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Spread on a baking sheet in a single layer.

4. Roast for 20-25 minutes, stirring halfway, until crispy and caramelized.

5. In a small saucepan, heat balsamic vinegar and maple syrup until slightly thickened.

6. Drizzle glaze over roasted Brussels sprouts and toss gently.

7. Serve warm.

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Vegan Pumpkin Pie with Coconut Whipped Topping

A holiday classic made vegan and creamy with coconut milk and warming spices.

Ingredients for Crust:

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

• 1/4 tsp salt

• 1/4 cup coconut oil, solid

• 3-4 tbsp ice water

Ingredients for Filling:

• 1 can (15 oz) pumpkin puree

• 1 cup full-fat coconut milk

• 3/4 cup brown sugar or coconut sugar

• 2 tbsp cornstarch

• 1 tsp cinnamon

• 1/2 tsp nutmeg

• 1/2 tsp ginger

• 1/4 tsp cloves

• 1/2 tsp salt

Ingredients for Coconut Whipped Topping:

• 1 can full-fat coconut milk, refrigerated overnight

• 2 tbsp maple syrup

• 1/2 tsp vanilla extract

Instructions:

Crust:

1. Mix flour and salt.

2. Cut in solid coconut oil until crumbly.

3. Add ice water gradually to form dough.

4. Chill for 30 minutes.

5. Roll out and fit into a pie dish.

6. Blind bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.

Filling:

1. Whisk pumpkin, coconut milk, sugar, cornstarch, and spices.

2. Pour into crust and bake 45-50 minutes until set.

3. Cool before topping.

Whipped Topping:

1. Scoop solid coconut cream from chilled can.

2. Whip with maple syrup and vanilla until fluffy.

3. Serve dolloped over pie slices.

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Tips for a Successful Vegan Thanksgiving Feast

• Prep ahead: Many dishes like lentil loaf and pies can be made a day or two in advance.

• Use fresh, seasonal produce: Squash, root vegetables, and greens shine in fall recipes.

• Enhance umami: Mushrooms, soy sauce, miso, and nutritional yeast add depth to vegan dishes.

• Play with textures: Combine creamy, crunchy, and roasted elements for a balanced plate.

• Communicate with guests: Label vegan dishes clearly for easy identification.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes

Can I make traditional Thanksgiving recipes vegan?

Yes! Many recipes can be veganized by substituting dairy with plant-based alternatives and using flax eggs or applesauce instead of eggs.

What’s the best plant-based protein for the main dish?

Lentils, chickpeas, tofu, tempeh, and seitan are great options depending on your preferences.

Are vegan Thanksgiving recipes filling and satisfying?

Absolutely! With hearty grains, legumes, and veggies, these recipes provide plenty of energy and satisfaction.

How can I add richness without dairy or eggs?

Use coconut milk, cashew cream, nuts, and nutritional yeast for creamy, rich flavors.

Can I make these dishes gluten-free as well?

Yes! Just choose gluten-free flours and ingredients where indicated.

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Final Thoughts: Enjoy a Flavorful, Compassionate Vegan Thanksgiving

A vegan Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude, compassion, and incredible flavors. These plant-based recipes show that you don’t need animal products to create a festive and satisfying holiday meal. From the centerpiece stuffed squash and lentil loaf to the cozy sides and luscious pumpkin pie, your vegan feast will impress and nourish all your guests.

Embrace this opportunity to explore new flavors, honor seasonal ingredients, and share a memorable holiday meal with kindness at its heart.