38 Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes

Whether you're looking for a light side dish or a traditional comfort food casseroles, you're sure to find a vegetarian-friendly Thanksgiving recipe here.

Overhead view of bakig dishes and breaded tofu on a wooden table

"What can vegetarians eat at Thanksgiving?" I've been asked this question by friends and relatives several times over the years. Thankfully most traditional Thanksgiving recipes are vegetarian-friendly with a few simple swaps.

Casseroles are often made with chicken broth and gravies with beef broth. These can easily be swapped with vegetable broth. I'm also sharing a few vegan friendly recipes for those looking for dairy and egg free options.

What about the main dish?

Panko breaded tofu makes a great Thanksgiving main. You can also buy a Tofurkey roast if you're looking for a quick (but really delicious) main. Of course, a sides only Thanksgiving is always a great option.

Pink plate filled with tofu, mac and cheese, salad, stuffing and mashed potatoes

Downsizing Thanksgiving this year?

Thanksgiving may look at little different this year, but that doesn't mean that you have to miss out on a delicious meal. If you're planning to have a smaller gathering, consider cutting recipes in half. You can also freeze most leftovers for later.

I like to assemble a few sides together and freeze them in containers to have an easy freezer meal on hand when things get hectic in December.

I included a few less traditional recipes like pasta bakes and lentil casserole that are great options if you're planning on a smaller meal this year.

Whether you're just looking for a side to bring to a small gathering or you're planning the whole day, there's sure to be a recipe in this list to please everyone.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Recipes

I've rounded up 38 of the best vegetarian and vegan mains, sides, appetizers and desserts to make for Thanksgiving this year. Choose from a variety of light veggie-focused sides to more traditional comfort food recipes for a balanced spread.

Vegetarian Thanksgiving Mains

Tofurkey and lentil loafs are always a good choice, but I have you covered if you're looking for something a little different this year.

Panko Breaded Tofu Cutlets with Pepper Gravy

Breaded tofu cutlets are marinated, seasoned and coated in panko and lightly pan-fried until golden.

Mushroom and Lentil Casserole with Mashed Potatoes

This healthy casserole is filled with lentils and mushrooms cooked in a lightly umami red wine sauce and topped with comforting mashed potatoes.

Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash

This vegetarian stuffed acorn squash is filled with healthy fall ingredients like quinoa, sauteed leeks, sage, and toasted pumpkin seeds!

Tempeh and Vegetable Pasta Bake

This comforting vegetable pasta bake is made with Italian seasoned tempeh and is cheesy as can be.

Vegan Tofu Pot Pie

This savory vegan pot pie is easy to make and loaded with veggies and tofu.

Vegetarian Sides

Choose from light veggie-focused sides to comfort food classics like green bean casserole. Vegetarian and vegan recipes included.

Green Beans Almondine (Green Beans with Almonds)

Green Beans Almondine is a simple but flavorful side dish that comes together quickly in one pan.

Green Bean Casserole with Caramelized Onions

There’s nothing quite like homemade green bean casserole made completely from scratch! This recipe adds in caramelized onions for a decadent spin on this comfort food classic.

Vegan Squash Casserole

Vegan squash casserole is made with yellow squash, a creamy sauce and a classic buttery cracker topping!

Garlic and Cream Cheese Mashed Potatoes

These richly flavored garlic mashed potatoes are made extra creamy with cream cheese and Parmesan -- and they're ready in under 30 minutes!

Sweet Potato Casserole with Bourbon

Sweet Potato Casserole with Bourbon is a sweet and warming side dish complete with a pecan crumble on top.

Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes

Instant Pot Mashed Sweet Potatoes are a sweet alternative to standard mashed potatoes. They can be prepared in under 30 minutes using warming fall ingredients like cinnamon, nutmeg and brown sugar.

The Best Vegan Macaroni and Cheese

This vegan macaroni and cheese recipe is super smooth, creamy and made in under 30 minutes without nuts or food processor. You’ll love how easy it is to make this recipe!

Stovetop Gouda Mac and Cheese

Cheddar and gouda combine to make this ultra creamy and rich stovetop mac and cheese! Ready in under 30 minutes and perfect as a holiday side.

Garlic Roasted Broccoli with Honey Mustard Glaze

Oven-roasted garlic broccoli with a honey mustard glaze is a simple yet flavorful side dish.

Balsamic Roasted Root Vegetables

Earthy root vegetables are roasted until crispy, then tossed with diced apples and pecans for the perfect side dish.

Vegan Mushroom Gravy

This vegan mushroom gravy is a savory and flavorful addition to any meal! It’s easy to mix up in under 15 minutes and is perfect for the holidays.

Herbed Vegetarian Sourdough Stuffing

Take homemade stuffing to the next level with sourdough and fresh herbs! This recipe is the perfect vegetarian addition to your Thanksgiving table.

Marinated Collard Greens Salad

This bright and zesty Collard Greens Salad is marinated in a flavorful vinaigrette and tossed with citrus, almonds and a dash of Parmesan. Enjoy topped with chickpeas for a complete meal or serve as a side.

Savory Vegan Collard Greens (Instant Pot or Stove Top)

You can make this savory vegan collard greens recipe in half the time in your Instant Pot, or make these nutritious greens the traditional way on your stove top.

Bread & Rolls

Choose from yeast rolls, quick bread or cornbread to complete your Thanksgiving spread.

Vegan Cornbread Muffins

These vegan cornbread muffins are made extra sweet and flavorful with molasses and classic cornbread ingredients. Ready in under 30 minutes!

Vegan Jalapeño Pimento Cornbread

This cornbread is made extra delicious with the addition of pimentos. This easy dish makes the perfect sweet and spicy comfort food, and it’s on the table in just about 30 minutes.

Sweet Potato Dinner Rolls

Sweet potato rolls are made with classic dinner roll ingredients and sweet potato puree, giving a traditional recipe additional flavor and warmth!

Whole Wheat Garlic Knots

These garlic knots are made with yeast and loaded with roasted garlic and fresh parsley. They take just an hour and a half to make.

Garlic Cheddar Drop Biscuits

Garlic cheddar drop biscuits are made in one bowl in under 30 minutes! This easily customized recipe is great as a quick side and screams comfort food!

Vegetarian Appetizers

You can make one of these dips or finger foods a day in advance to put out while the Thanksgiving meal is cooking.

Kale Artichoke Dip

Kale Artichoke Dip is creamy, cheesy and sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Rosemary White Bean Dip

This rosemary and white bean dip takes just 5 minutes to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold!

Baked Vegetarian Chili Cheese Dip

Chili Cheese Dip is the ultimate easy party dip! It’s uses only 3 ingredients and can be baked in the oven or made in the microwave.

Goat Cheese and Mushroom Puff Pastry Appetizers

These party-approved puff pastry appetizers are filled with goat cheese, spinach and mushrooms. They are a great vegetarian option for entertaining and are beyond delicious!