From creamy mashed potatoes and rich gravy to mac and cheese, stuffing, and green bean casserole, I’ve got 20 delicious vegan Thanksgiving sides for you! Whether you’re hosting a fully vegan meal or just want a few plant-based side dishes, these recipes are sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
There’s a reason a lot of people prefer the sides to the mains on Thanksgiving. Not only can you load your plate with a variety of scrumptious flavors, but they’re also where all those warm, hearty, and deliciously nostalgic tastes shine (hello, mushroom gravy)! From perfectly spiced roasted veggies to sweet potato casserole, creamed corn, and cranberry sauce, side dishes truly steal the show. It's no wonder that, for me, they’re the best part of the Thanksgiving meal.
I know holiday cooking can feel overwhelming, but don’t worry—it doesn’t have to be a stressful marathon in the kitchen. Let’s keep things easy and enjoyable, so you can spend more time with your loved ones and less time sweating over the stove.
Tips for a Stress-Free Holiday Prep:
- Make Ahead: All of these side dishes can be prepped ahead of time and simply warmed when you're ready to serve. Take advantage of this by prepping things in advance, allowing you to spend more time enjoying your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.
- Freezer-Friendly: Some of these Thanksgiving sides freeze beautifully! (Check the recipe notes to see which ones, or drop a comment if you're unsure.) Make them up to a week in advance and stash them in the freezer. Then, just let them thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the big day.
- Oil-Free Options: Looking to skip the oil? I include oil-free options in nearly all of my side dish recipes, so be sure to check the recipe notes for my recommended swaps.
- Keep It Warm Without Overcooking: If you have dishes that need to stay warm before serving, set your oven to the lowest setting or use a warming drawer if you have one. A splash of veggie broth can help keep things moist and prevent them from drying out as they wait to hit the table.
With these simple tips, your Thanksgiving feast will be a breeze, leaving you free to focus on the fun, the laughter, and (of course) the delicious food. Happy feasting!
- Easy Vegan Stove Top Stuffing: "If I could give this a hundred stars, I would! This is my all-time favorite stuffing/dressing recipe (it even knocked my childhood favorite off the top when I discoved it - my family's traditional, mom-created one)." -Mary
- Vegan Garlic Mashed Potatoes: "I made these last Xmas (for a crowd of non-vegans) and it was a huge hit! Will make again this year! You rock, Sam!" -Erik
- Easy Vegan Mushroom Gravy: "I've tried various gravy recipes over the years for Thanksgiving and this is my favorite! It was soooo good and went perfect with everything!" -Sasha
- Easy Vegan Cranberry Sauce: "I just made this cranberry sauce and am blown away by how fresh and tasty it is. And it came together in just a handful of minutes. Thank you." -Merry
- 5-Minute Vegan Creamed Corn: "I think scrumptious is the best word to describe this." -Hilde
- Garlic Sautéed Green Beans: "Great quick meal or side dish. Melts in mouth and taste buds perk up." -Burt
- Cheesy Vegan Scalloped Potatoes: "This has become a must-have item for every autumnal/wintry family get-together. I think I might get kicked out if I don’t bring this dish." -Anonymous
- The Best Roasted Vegetables: "Excellent! Just the right balance sweet/savory. Definitely on Thanksgiving menu!" -Christiane
- Vegan Cornbread Dressing: "This is incredibly delicious and was even more popular than the main course last Thanksgiving!!" -Anonymous
- The Easiest Vegan Cornbread: "This is my all time favorite cornbread recipe. It always turns out perfect. I love how easy it is!" -Stacey
- Easy Vegan Cheddar Biscuits: "Such a great recipe, it‘s really quick and easy and they look and taste great!" -Linda
- Vegan Green Bean Casserole: "Now THIS is what a green bean casserole should taste like!" -Daveigh
- Vegan Condensed Mushroom Soup: "This recipe is fantastic! The veggie bullion and onion really help hide the lack of dairy." -Leah
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: "The easiest best recipe and suddenly we love Brussel sprouts." -Marie
- Roasted Broccolini: "Crispy broccolini! Delicious." -Roseanna
- Vegan Butternut Squash Mac & Cheese: "I highly recommend this recipe!! both my kids (toddler and 4 year old) LOVED it, didn't even realize there was no cheese in it! It's simple and delicious!" -Cassidy
- Vegan Truffle Mac & Cheese: "Absolutely amazing! I made this for thanksgiving a year or two ago, for my niece who is vegan, and it was a huge hit! It has become a staple in my house!" -Colleen
- Easy Smashed Potatoes: "My new favorite way to enjoy potatoes! Can't wait to bring this to my family Thanksgiving dinner!" -Adam
- Garlic Hasselback Potatoes: "These look so professional and delightful on a plate! AND they were delicious. Not hardly any work at all. So much better than just a plain backed potato." -Teresa
- Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole with Marshmallow: "Going on my table tomorrow!! Thank you for your sharing!" -Adela
I hope these vegan Thanksgiving sides inspire you to fill your table with all the plant-based goodness your heart desires! Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! 🍂🧡
If you try any of these recipes, let us know by leaving a comment, rating it, and don't forget to tag @itdoesnttastelikechicken on Instagram.
Bon appetegan!
Sam Turnbull.
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