Pull off a crowd-pleasing meatless Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is evolving. As veganism and vegetarianism continue to grow, more families embrace plant-based menus that reflect both modern values and timeless traditions.

According to the Good Food Institute, U.S. retail sales of plant-based foods more than doubled from $3.9 billion in 2017 to $8.1 billion in 2024. This surge reflects a larger shift in how people eat and think about food. Health, animal welfare and sustainability are driving more Americans to choose alternatives to meat and dairy.

Science backs up the benefits of this change. A Stanford study found that a vegan diet significantly improves cardiovascular health, while a 2018 study published in Science concluded reducing animal products is the most effective way for individuals to lower their carbon footprint. Going meatless this Thanksgiving means celebrating in a way that nourishes both people and the planet.

Infusion of global flavors

Straying from traditional dishes may sound scary, but bold global flavors can bring new life to the table and offer guests a fresh experience. Start with Indian-spiced lentil patties. This hearty, plant-based option is layered with aromatic spices. In Indian cooking, seasoning is an art form: spices are added at different stages to build rich, complex depth. Serve these patties as a flavorful alternative to burgers, or top them with a cooling yogurt-cardamom sauce for balance.

For a bright, crowd-pleasing side, try Mexican street corn salad, or esquites. This vibrant salad features grilled corn tossed with chili powder, mayonnaise, cotija cheese and a squeeze of fresh lime. The result is a smoky, tangy and creamy combination that's ready in just 15 minutes. It's guaranteed to disappear as fast as it was made.

Out with the turkey, in with the stew

Who says the Thanksgiving centerpiece has to be a turkey? A rich, slow-simmered vegetarian stew can shine just as brightly. The stew provides just as much warmth and flavor without the hours of preparation and roasting.

Filled with seasonal vegetables, aromatic herbs and savory broth, this dish is both comforting and refined. To add some flair, consider a French-style stew with red wine and sautéed mushrooms, or, for a more intense flavor, opt for a Moroccan version that includes chickpeas, apricots and warm spices. Serve it straight from a rustic Dutch oven for a beautiful, no-fuss presentation that invites everyone to dig in.

Renditions of the classics

Going meatless doesn't mean you have to give up classic holiday dishes. You can still serve gravy by swapping meat drippings for a rich, mushroom-based alternative. With its velvety texture and deep umami flavor, mushroom gravy is satisfying enough to please even meat lovers.

Prepare cheesy mashed potatoes to pair with the gravy for the ultimate comfort food. Creamy Yukon Gold potatoes mixed with cream cheese and sharp cheddar create a savory side dish that is sure to be a crowd-pleaser at any gathering.

Stuffing is still an option, even without turkey. A vegan version made with crusty bread, mushrooms, celery, onions and plenty of fresh herbs offers all the flavor and satisfaction of the traditional dish. Bake it to golden perfection, and you won't miss the bird one bit.

A sweet finish

Dessert is the grand finale of any Thanksgiving meal. A thoughtfully chosen spread brings the celebration to a satisfying close, and with a few simple swaps, classic treats can easily be made vegan.

Timeless favorites like pumpkin pie, apple crumble and sugar cookies can still shine with a plant-based twist. For pumpkin pie, use full-fat coconut milk instead of dairy for a rich, creamy filling. In apple crumble, substitute dairy-free butter or a neutral oil to get that crisp, golden topping. For sugar cookies, substitute dairy-free butter and aquafaba for eggs. The result will be a dessert table that's inclusive and just as indulgent as the original.

Going meatless beyond Thanksgiving

Preparing a meatless Thanksgiving feast often reveals something unexpected: a plant-based lifestyle is far more accessible and delicious than it might seem. With today's wide range of creative recipes and alternatives, traditional dishes can be reimagined without sacrificing taste.

Choosing to go meatless in the long term can benefit your wallet. Switching to a vegan diet could save you more than $650 a year on groceries. In times of rising living costs, replacing meat and dairy with fruits, vegetables, grains and legumes offers both economic and health advantages.

Beyond lowering food expenses, a plant-based diet may help prevent or manage conditions such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes and heart disease. The lessons and savings from a meatless Thanksgiving can easily extend into everyday life.

Reimagine Thanksgiving

This year, gather with loved ones around a feast that feels both familiar and refreshingly new. Trade the turkey for a hearty vegetarian stew, pair it with cozy sides like cheesy mashed potatoes and experiment with bold global flavors that bring new life to the table. A vegan dinner can significantly reduce the holiday's carbon footprint. Reimagining Thanksgiving as a more inclusive and sustainable celebration is a powerful way to honor its true spirit.