34 Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes
Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate abundance, gratitude, and togetherness — and what better way to honor those values than with a table filled with delicious, vibrant plant-based dishes? Embracing a vegan Thanksgiving isn’t about giving anything up; it’s about discovering new ways to nourish ourselves, our loved ones, and the planet. Each dish tells a story of mindful choices and flavorful creativity, proving that comfort food can be both compassionate and deeply satisfying.
A plant-based diet is one of the most powerful ways we can make a positive impact on the environment. By focusing on vegetables, legumes, grains, fruits, and nuts, we reduce our carbon footprint, conserve water, and support sustainable agriculture — all while celebrating nature’s incredible bounty. It’s a way of eating that aligns with the spirit of Thanksgiving: gratitude for the earth’s harvest and respect for the life it sustains.
Equally important, vegan meals can be wonderfully nourishing for the body. They’re naturally rich in antioxidants, fiber, and essential nutrients that support heart health, digestion, and overall well-being. From creamy vegan whipped potatoes made with oat milk and olive oil, to herb-scented sage gravy, to indulgent desserts like Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake, every recipe brings warmth, depth, and comfort without relying on dairy or animal products.
This collection of Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes brings together everything you need for a wholesome, abundant feast — dishes that are as satisfying as they are sustainable. Whether you’re a long-time vegan or simply incorporating more plant-based meals into your holiday menu, these recipes offer the perfect balance of tradition and innovation. Gather around, share generously, and celebrate the beauty of a Thanksgiving that’s kind to both body and planet — one that nourishes every guest and honors the season’s true spirit of gratitude.
1.
Kale Harvest Salad
Tossed in a creamy tahini dressing, this kale harvest salad is the perfect start to your vegan Thanksgiving meal. It's loaded with wholesome ingredients like crispy kale, crunchy pumpkin seeds, sweet dried cranberries, and fresh apple matchsticks, all tossed in a zesty, homemade tahini dressing.
2.
Arugula + Squash Salad with Maple Dijon Recipe
Roasted delicata squash brings a nice texture and warm, rich flavor to this elegant salad. A healthy and hearty salad recipe accented with the flavors of fall with a drizzle of zippy maple Dijon vinaigrette to set your vegan Thanksgiving meal on the perfect note.
3.
Vegan Cornbread
At your vegan Thanksgiving table, this moist cornbread loaf will bring a golden touch of comfort and warmth. Its tender crumb, naturally sweetened with maple syrup, perfectly complements savory holiday dishes like lentil loaf, roasted vegetables, or mushroom gravy. The aroma alone feels nostalgic — reminiscent of family gatherings, yet refreshed with mindful, plant-based ingredients. Each slice embodies the essence of gratitude: nourishing, wholesome, and made with care for both body and planet. Whether enjoyed warm with vegan butter or simply as it is, this cornbread adds a cozy, heartfelt element to your compassionate holiday feast.
4.
Fall Lentil Salad
A hearty start for your vegan Thanksgiving menu, this salad is packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and seasonal flavor—toasted warmth and crunch of hazelnuts complimented by the earthy brightness of the celeriac. It’s a healthy, satisfying plant-based dish perfect for your vegan Thanksgiving meal.
5.
Butternut Squash Soup
This golden, velvety soup—infused with fresh ginger, cardamom, and a hint of nutmeg—captures the essence of autumn in every spoonful. The roasted butternut squash creates a naturally creamy base, balanced by a splash of lemon juice for brightness. Topped with pumpkin seed oil, roasted seeds, or a dollop of cranberry sauce, it’s both beautiful and deeply flavorful. Served as a starter or alongside your main course, this comforting soup sets a cozy, inviting tone for your plant-based Thanksgiving feast. Including Butternut Squash Soup in your vegan Thanksgiving dinner adds a touch of elegance and warmth to the celebration.
6.
Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms with Cashew Cheese and Herbs
These Vegan Stuffed Mushrooms with Cashew Cheese and Herbs are a perfect appetizer for Vegan Thanksgiving. Filled with sautéed mushroom stems, shallots, garlic, and creamy vegan goat-style cheese, they’re elegant, savory, and easy to make. A delicious plant-based bite that everyone will love this holiday season.
7.
Savory Onion Herb Focaccia
Savory Onion Herb Focaccia is the perfect addition to a vegan Thanksgiving table—comforting, aromatic, and beautifully seasonal. The blend of caramelized onions, fresh herbs, and a golden, olive-oil–rich crust brings a cozy, rustic warmth that complements all the traditional holiday dishes. It’s a crowd-pleaser for vegans and non-vegans alike, offering a flavorful alternative to classic breads without feeling like a “substitute.” The focaccia’s tender, airy crumb pairs effortlessly with soups, roasted vegetables, plant-based gravies, and hearty mains, making it a versatile staple for your holiday spread. Plus, it’s simple to prep ahead, so you can enjoy a relaxed, stress-free Thanksgiving filled with incredible homemade flavor.
8.
Carrot Ginger Miso Soup
Carrot Ginger Miso Soup is a soothing, vibrant addition to any vegan Thanksgiving menu. Sweet carrots simmer with fresh ginger for warmth, depth, and a gentle, invigorating kick. A spoonful of white miso adds savory complexity and a silky richness that elevates this simple soup into something truly special. Blended until perfectly smooth, it’s nourishing, aromatic, and naturally creamy without any dairy. A drizzle of coconut milk or a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds makes a beautiful finishing touch. Light yet satisfying, this soup is the ideal starter—warming, bright, and full of balanced, autumnal flavor.
9.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts
These Roasted Brussels Sprouts at your vegan Thanksgiving dinner bring a savory, smoky, and slightly sweet touch to the holiday table. These caramelized sprouts—tossed in olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and a hint of maple syrup—offer incredible depth of flavor. The addition of chopped nuts adds crunch, while dried cherries or cranberries introduce a festive pop of sweetness. This dish perfectly complements heartier mains like vegan lentil loaf or mashed sweet potatoes, offering balance and brightness. Roasted Brussels Sprouts are a simple yet elegant side that celebrates the beauty of seasonal vegetables in their most delicious form.
10.
Vegan Mushroom Soup
This vegan mushroom soup is a beautiful addition to any Vegan Thanksgiving menu, offering comfort, depth, and wholesome nourishment in every spoonful. The sautéed mushrooms bring rich umami, while fresh herbs and creamy plant-based ingredients create a luxurious texture without any dairy. Topped with vibrant kale chiffonade, it adds color and a nutrient boost to your holiday table. Serve it as a warm, inviting starter that pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables, hearty plant-based mains, and seasonal sides. It’s an elegant, cozy dish that celebrates the abundance of fall and aligns beautifully with a plant-forward Thanksgiving feast.
Vegan Whipped Potatoes are a classic favorite at any Thanksgiving dinner and bring creamy, comforting nostalgia to the table—without any dairy. Made with fluffy potatoes whipped to perfection using plant-based milk and vegan butter, they’re light yet indulgent. A touch of garlic or olive oil adds depth, while sea salt enhances their natural richness. These potatoes serve as the perfect canvas for your favorite vegan gravy or roasted vegetables, tying together the meal with warmth and heartiness. Silky, satisfying, and deeply comforting, vegan whipped potatoes are a must-have for a Thanksgiving feast that’s both compassionate and delicious.
12.
Roasted Maple Dijon Rosemary Delicata Squash Rings
Roasted Maple Dijon Rosemary Delicata Squash Rings bring a beautiful balance of sweet, savory, and herbal notes to your vegan Thanksgiving table. The natural creaminess of delicata squash pairs perfectly with the tang of Dijon mustard, the sweetness of maple syrup, and the earthy aroma of fresh rosemary. Roasting caramelizes the edges, creating tender rings with a lightly crisp exterior that feel festive and elegant. These golden rounds make a stunning side dish or garnish for your main course, adding warmth, texture, and seasonal flair. It’s a simple yet refined recipe that embodies the cozy essence of fall gatherings.
13.
Savory Sage Vegan Gravy
Made with caramelized onions, fresh sage, and a luscious plant-based base, this gravy brings depth and umami to everything it touches—from vegan whipped potatoes to lentil loaf or roasted vegetables. The aromatic sage evokes classic holiday nostalgia, while the smooth, velvety texture adds indulgence without any dairy. Drizzling this golden gravy over your favorite dishes elevates them with warmth and balance. It’s the finishing touch that turns your vegan Thanksgiving feast into a truly satisfying, flavor-filled celebration. Including Savory Sage Vegan Gravy in your Thanksgiving spread ties the entire meal together with rich, comforting flavor.
14.
Harvest Herb Vegan Stuffing
Harvest Herb Vegan Stuffing is the heart of a cozy Thanksgiving feast, filling the table with nostalgic aroma and rustic charm. Made with cubes of crusty bread tossed in olive oil, sautéed onions, celery, garlic, and a medley of fresh herbs like sage, thyme, and rosemary, it captures the essence of the season. A splash of vegetable broth keeps it moist, while a golden bake gives it that perfect crisp top. This savory, herb-forward dish pairs beautifully with vegan gravy, lentil loaf, or roasted vegetables, offering both texture and depth. Harvest Herb Vegan Stuffing brings warmth, tradition, and plant-based comfort to your Thanksgiving celebration.
15.
Ginger and Orange Zest Cranberry Sauce
Ginger and Orange Zest Cranberry Sauce brings brightness, warmth, and a touch of sophistication to your holiday table. Fresh cranberries simmer gently with fragrant orange zest, freshly squeezed citrus juice, and a hint of spicy ginger, creating a sauce that’s both zippy and comforting. The ginger adds a subtle heat that balances the tart berries, while the orange lends natural sweetness and depth. This modern, elevated twist on the classic pairs beautifully with all your favorite vegan Thanksgiving dishes. Easy to make ahead and irresistibly aromatic, it’s the kind of condiment that instantly makes the entire meal feel festive.
16.
Savory Herbed Whipped Sweet Potatoes
Savory Herbed Whipped Sweet Potatoes are a standout addition to any vegan Thanksgiving table. Instead of leaning sweet, this version celebrates the naturally rich flavor of sweet potatoes with rosemary, thyme, and a hint of garlic for depth. Whipped until velvety and smooth with a splash of coconut milk or olive oil, they bring warmth, comfort, and balance to a holiday menu filled with hearty classics. Elegant enough for a centerpiece side yet effortless to prepare, these whipped sweet potatoes offer a fresh, flavorful twist your guests will remember.
17.
Charred Green Beans with Miso-Almond Butter and Crispy Shallots
Charred Green Beans with Miso-Almond Butter and Crispy Shallots bring bold, savory flavor to your vegan Thanksgiving spread. Blistered green beans offer smoky depth, while the miso-almond butter adds a creamy, umami-rich coating that feels both comforting and elevated. A touch of garlic and lemon brightens the dish, creating perfect balance without overpowering the natural sweetness of the beans. Finished with golden, crispy shallots for crunch and aromatic richness, this side feels festive, fresh, and unexpected. It’s an easy, elegant way to introduce new flavors while keeping your holiday table vibrant, seasonal, and entirely plant-based.
18.
Perfect Roasted Carrots
Add these Perfect Roasted Carrots to your vegan Thanksgiving menu for a side dish that’s both simple and beautifully elevated. The oblique-cut carrots are blanched for ideal tenderness, then roasted until caramelized and finished with bright, tangy sherry vinegar. They bring a vibrant pop of color and a naturally sweet, savory balance that complements hearty plant-based mains. With minimal ingredients and big flavor, this dish adds elegance without extra effort—making it an easy, crowd-pleasing vegetable side for a festive and fully vegan holiday table.
19.
Savory Vegan Lentil Loaf with Maple-Balsamic Glaze
Celebrate Thanksgiving with this Savory Vegan Lentil Loaf with Maple-Balsamic Glaze — a hearty, plant-based main dish that’s full of flavor and perfect for the holiday table. Made with lentils, vegetables, herbs, and a tangy-sweet glaze, this vegan loaf is wholesome, satisfying, and easy to make. Ideal for a vegan Thanksgiving dinner, it’s a beautiful centerpiece that pairs perfectly with classic sides like mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.
20.
Miso Mushrooms & Mashed Potatoes
At your vegan Thanksgiving table, Miso Mushrooms & Mashed Potatoes make a stunning, flavor-packed centerpiece. Creamy, velvety potatoes create the perfect base for deeply caramelized mushrooms glazed in a sweet-savory miso sauce that’s rich with umami depth. A sprinkle of fresh greens on top adds a bright, earthy contrast that balances the dish beautifully. It’s a comforting yet elegant recipe that feels indulgent while staying fully plant-based — the kind of dish that satisfies both vegans and non-vegans alike. Perfect for sharing, it brings warmth, sophistication, and harmony to your holiday table in every delicious bite.
21.
Harissa-Seared Cauliflower Steaks
This vibrant cauliflower steak dish makes a stunning addition to any vegan Thanksgiving menu. With its smoky mild harissa, tender roasted cauliflower, crisp kale, and pops of pomegranate, it brings bold flavor and beautiful color to the holiday table. This recipe offers a lighter, nutrient-rich alternative to traditional mains while still feeling festive and satisfying. It’s the perfect plant-based centerpiece or side for guests who appreciate creative, vegetable-forward cooking. Nourishing, elegant, and deeply flavorful, it complements all your Thanksgiving classics while adding a modern, wellness-focused touch to your celebration.
22.
Spinach & Pomegranate Quinoa Salad
This vibrant Quinoa Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes, Spinach, and Pomegranate is a nourishing vegan recipe featuring a tangy maple-balsamic dressing—perfect for a healthy, colorful plant-based Thanksgiving meal. Dressed with a balsamic, garlic, ginger dressing, this is a bright and zesty dish for your vegan Thanksgiving table.
23.
Quinoa & Mushroom Stuffed Peppers with Creamy Jalapeño-Yogurt
Quinoa & Mushroom Stuffed Peppers with Creamy Jalapeño-Yogurt make a vibrant, satisfying vegan Thanksgiving main or side. Tender roasted peppers are filled with a hearty mixture of quinoa, caramelized mushrooms, garlic, herbs, and warm spices for a comforting, earthy bite. The filling is protein-packed and full of texture, creating a beautiful contrast to the soft sweetness of the peppers. Topped with a cool, zesty jalapeño-yogurt drizzle—made with your favorite plant-based yogurt—each bite feels balanced, bright, and deeply flavorful. This colorful dish brings freshness, nourishment, and a touch of heat to your holiday table.
24.
Ribollita Soup
Including Ribollita Soup in your vegan Thanksgiving menu brings warmth and comfort to the table. This hearty Tuscan stew—made with seasonal vegetables, beans, kale, and day-old bread—embodies the spirit of gratitude and resourcefulness that defines the holiday. Its rich, savory depth and nourishing ingredients make it a satisfying starter or main for plant-based guests. Ribollita celebrates abundance without excess, using humble ingredients to create something deeply flavorful and soul-satisfying. Served with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs, it’s a cozy, elegant addition to your vegan Thanksgiving feast.
25.
Creamy Vegan Mushroom & Spinach Polenta
This Creamy Vegan Mushroom & Spinach Polenta is the perfect vegan Thanksgiving dish serving up comfort, nourishment, and packed with umami. Featuring a rich and creamy polenta base made with vegetable broth, almond milk, and a deeply savory blend of red miso and tahini, the result is a silky, flavorful canvas that’s perfect for a plant-based Thanksgiving.
26.
Vegan Creamy Mac and Cheese Casserole
We firmly believe that a mac and cheese casserole is part of the traditional Thanksgiving feast and you can indulge in this creamy, dairy-free Vegan Mac and Cheese Casserole for the perfect vegan Thanksgiving. Made with a rich cashew–sweet potato sauce and a golden panko topping. A wholesome, comforting dish perfect for vegan Thanksgiving or weeknight dinners—pure plant-based goodness with a boost of natural protein and flavor.
27.
Middle Eastern Spiced Carrot Salad
Including a Middle Eastern Spiced Carrot Salad in your vegan Thanksgiving dinner adds vibrant color, texture, and global flair to the table. The earthy sweetness of roasted carrots pairs beautifully with warm spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon, while fresh herbs, citrus, and a drizzle of tahini or olive oil create balance and brightness. It’s a refreshing complement to hearty dishes like lentil loaf or vegan stuffing, bringing contrast and harmony to your plate. This salad celebrates abundance, warmth, and gratitude—perfectly aligning with the spirit of Thanksgiving while honoring plant-based, globally inspired cuisine.
28.
Vegan Apple Tart
A Vegan Apple Tart makes a stunning finale to your Thanksgiving feast, celebrating the beauty of simplicity and seasonal fruit. Thinly sliced apples are layered over a flaky, plant-based pastry crust and brushed with a touch of maple syrup for natural sweetness. Warm cinnamon and a hint of lemon bring balance and brightness, while the golden edges crisp beautifully in the oven. Served with vegan vanilla ice cream or coconut whipped cream, this tart is elegant yet comforting. It’s a dessert that feels indulgent but remains light, perfectly capturing the spirit of gratitude and autumn abundance.
29.
Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake
A Vegan Pumpkin Cheesecake is the ultimate showstopper for your Thanksgiving dessert table—creamy, spiced, and beautifully seasonal. Made with a luscious cashew or dairy-free cream base, this cheesecake captures the cozy flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla blended with silky pumpkin purée. The buttery vegan graham or oat crust adds the perfect crunch beneath the smooth filling. Chilled to perfection and topped with coconut whipped cream or candied pecans, it’s both indulgent and wholesome. Each bite offers warmth and comfort, proving that a plant-based dessert can be every bit as rich and satisfying as the classic holiday favorite.
30.
Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake
Vegan Apple Crumble Cheesecake is the ultimate plant-based holiday dessert—creamy, cozy, and beautifully spiced. A velvety dairy-free cheesecake layer sits atop a crisp graham or oat crust, offering the perfect balance of richness and lightness. On top, warmly spiced apples melt into a golden, buttery crumble for irresistible texture and flavor. Cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla bring classic fall comfort, while the baked crumble adds a crunchy contrast to the smooth cheesecake. Each slice feels indulgent yet wholesome, making it a festive showstopper for vegan Thanksgiving gatherings or any autumn celebration.
31.
Creamy Pumpkin Mousse
Creamy Pumpkin Mousse is a light, elegant vegan dessert that captures all the cozy flavors of fall. Silky smooth and softly spiced, this mousse blends pumpkin purée with warm cinnamon, vanilla, and a touch of maple for natural sweetness. Folded with whipped coconut cream, it becomes airy, luscious, and perfectly balanced—rich without feeling heavy. Served chilled, it’s a refreshing contrast to the heartier dishes on a Thanksgiving table. Top with crushed ginger snaps, toasted pecans, or a dollop of extra coconut cream for texture and flair. Simple to prepare yet beautifully impressive, it’s an irresistible finish to any vegan feast.
32.
Vegan Carrot Cake with Coconut Cream Frosting
Conclude your vegan Thanksgiving feast on a sweet and wholesome note with this Vegan Carrot Cake with Coconut Cream Frosting. Moist, spiced layers of grated carrot, warm cinnamon, and nutmeg come together with crushed pineapple and chopped walnuts for a beautiful texture and flavor. The coconut cream frosting adds a luscious, dairy-free richness that perfectly complements the earthy sweetness of the cake. This dessert feels both nostalgic and fresh—an elevated take on a classic that everyone at the table will love. It’s indulgent yet light, a perfect finale to a compassionate and delicious Thanksgiving celebration.
33.
Apple Bourbon Spritz
Impress your Thanksgiving guests with a signature cocktail! This Apple Bourbon Spritz is the ultimate Thanksgiving cocktail to toast your celebrations. This elegant cocktail combines the crisp flavors of apple cider with the warmth of bourbon, creating a perfectly balanced cocktail that feels both sophisticated and comforting. A splash of champagne or sparkling wine adds a festive touch.
34.
Apple Cider Champagne Cocktail
Raise a glass to gratitude with this Apple Cider Champagne Cocktail — the perfect toast to your vegan Thanksgiving celebration. Effervescent and elegant, it blends the sweetness of apple cider with the crisp sparkle of champagne for a drink that feels both festive and refreshing. A dash of cinnamon or a thin apple slice adds a seasonal touch, capturing the cozy spirit of fall in every sip. Light, golden, and effortlessly celebratory, it’s the ideal way to welcome guests, share a toast, and mark a holiday rooted in togetherness, mindfulness, and the simple joy of gathering around good food.
Celebrate the holidays with these Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes — a wholesome, plant-based feast that’s good for your health and the planet. From rich and savory vegan sage gravy to creamy whipped potatoes and indulgent vegan pumpkin cheesecake, this collection has everything you need for a compassionate and delicious Thanksgiving. Each recipe is dairy-free, egg-free, and full of seasonal flavor, proving that vegan cooking can be just as comforting and satisfying as the classics. Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to add more plant-based dishes to their holiday menu. Enjoy a sustainable, heart-healthy Thanksgiving that celebrates gratitude, abundance, and mindful eating.
A vegan Thanksgiving is more than a meal—it’s a conscious celebration that honors the interconnectedness of life and the values of compassion, sustainability, and gratitude. At its heart, it’s about reimagining one of the most tradition-bound holidays in a way that aligns with both our ethics and the planet’s needs. Choosing a cruelty-free vegan Thanksgiving table reflects an understanding that abundance doesn’t have to come at the expense of another living being or the environment. Instead, it invites us to gather around foods that are vibrant, nourishing, and deeply respectful of the earth’s resources.
The beauty of a vegan Thanksgiving lies in its harmony with nature. Every plant-based dish tells a story of coexistence—of how we can live well without taking more than we need. By forgoing meat and dairy, we significantly reduce our ecological footprint. The production of animal products is one of the leading causes of deforestation, water pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions. In contrast, plant-based ingredients require fewer resources to produce and replenish the soil rather than deplete it. A vegan holiday feast celebrates this cycle of renewal: roasted seasonal vegetables, lentil loaves rich with herbs, golden potatoes whipped with olive oil, and desserts crafted from fruits, nuts, and grains—all representing the abundance of the harvest season in its purest form.
Sustainability is not only about what we eat but also how we source and prepare it. Supporting local farms, choosing organic produce, and minimizing food waste are simple yet powerful acts of gratitude toward the planet. A vegan Thanksgiving encourages creativity in the kitchen and mindfulness in every step of the process. It transforms cooking into a ritual of care—washing earthy root vegetables, seasoning thoughtfully, and savoring every aroma. It’s an invitation to slow down, to remember where our food comes from, and to acknowledge the hands and ecosystems that made it possible.
Equally important, a cruelty-free vegan Thanksgiving embodies empathy and inclusivity. It allows everyone—regardless of dietary preference or background—to come together around a table that nourishes both body and spirit. In choosing compassion, we extend gratitude beyond our immediate circle to all living beings. This shift redefines tradition not as something static, but as something evolving—a reflection of our growing awareness and shared responsibility for the world we inhabit.
At its core, Thanksgiving is about giving thanks, and there’s no deeper expression of gratitude than honoring life in all its forms. A vegan feast celebrates this principle beautifully. It’s a meal that reminds us we can find joy and indulgence in dishes made from plants, that flavor and festivity need not rely on suffering, and that mindful choices create ripples of positive change.
As the candles glow and plates fill with color, a vegan Thanksgiving becomes a symbol of harmony—between humans and the earth, between tradition and progress, and between nourishment and compassion. It’s a reminder that gratitude extends beyond words or rituals; it lives in how we care for our planet, our communities, and every creature that shares it with us.
