Thanksgiving isn’t just about turkey—there’s an abundance of plant-based main dishes that are just as satisfying, flavorful, and impressive. From savory stuffed squashes to hearty vegetable wellingtons, these dishes prove that a meat-free centerpiece can steal the show. Perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to switch things up, these recipes are packed with autumnal flavors and festive flair.

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1. Why Choose Plant-Based Thanksgiving Mains?

1.1 Inclusive and Versatile

• Ensures everyone at the table has a delicious, satisfying option, no matter their dietary preferences.
• Many plant-based mains can also double as sides, offering flexibility.

1.2 Packed with Flavor

• Highlight seasonal ingredients like squash, mushrooms, and cranberries for robust, comforting dishes.
• Herbs, spices, and creative cooking techniques bring out the best in plant-based ingredients.

1.3 Environmentally Friendly

• Reducing or eliminating meat can lower the environmental impact of your holiday meal.

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2. Stuffed Acorn Squash with Wild Rice and Cranberries

Why It Wows

This vibrant dish combines the earthy flavors of acorn squash with nutty wild rice, sweet cranberries, and crunchy pecans.

Ingredients

• Acorn squash (2, halved and seeded)
• Cooked wild rice (2 cups)
• Dried cranberries (1/2 cup)
• Pecans, chopped (1/3 cup)
• Fresh sage and thyme (1 tsp each, chopped)
• Olive oil, salt, and pepper

How to Make It

1. Roast the squash halves cut-side down at 400°F (200°C) until tender, about 25 minutes.
2. Toss wild rice with cranberries, pecans, and herbs. Fill the roasted squash halves with the mixture.
3. Return to the oven for 10 minutes.

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3. Lentil and Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

Why It Wows

A twist on the classic, this shepherd’s pie layers a savory lentil filling with creamy sweet potato mash.

Ingredients

• Cooked lentils (2 cups)
• Sweet potatoes, mashed (2 large)
• Carrots, celery, and onion, diced (1 cup each)
• Tomato paste (1 tbsp)
• Vegetable broth (1 cup)
• Paprika and thyme (1 tsp each)

How to Make It

1. Sauté the vegetables until softened, then stir in lentils, tomato paste, and broth. Simmer until thickened.
2. Spread the lentil mixture in a baking dish and top with mashed sweet potatoes.
3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) until golden.

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4. Vegan Mushroom Wellington

Why It Wows

This show-stopping pastry is packed with a savory mushroom and spinach filling wrapped in flaky puff pastry.

Ingredients

• Cremini mushrooms, finely chopped (3 cups)
• Spinach, wilted (2 cups)
• Puff pastry (1 sheet, thawed)
• Garlic and thyme (1 tsp each, minced)
• Dijon mustard (1 tbsp)

How to Make It

1. Sauté mushrooms with garlic and thyme until golden and dry. Mix in spinach and cool.
2. Spread Dijon mustard on puff pastry, layer with the mushroom mixture, and roll into a log.
3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.

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5. Butternut Squash Lasagna

Why It Wows

Layers of roasted butternut squash, creamy cashew ricotta, and spinach make this lasagna rich and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Lasagna noodles (12 sheets)
• Roasted butternut squash (2 cups)
• Cashew ricotta (1 cup)
• Fresh spinach (2 cups)
• Marinara sauce (2 cups)

How to Make It

1. Layer cooked lasagna noodles with marinara, cashew ricotta, spinach, and roasted squash in a baking dish.
2. Repeat layers, ending with marinara.
3. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 40 minutes.

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6. Chickpea and Vegetable Pot Pie

Why It Wows

This comforting pie combines hearty chickpeas and tender vegetables in a creamy plant-based filling, topped with flaky pastry.

Ingredients

• Chickpeas, cooked (1 can)
• Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, and green beans, 2 cups)
• Plant-based cream (1 cup)
• All-purpose flour (2 tbsp)
• Puff pastry (1 sheet, thawed)

How to Make It

1. Sauté vegetables and chickpeas, then stir in cream and flour to thicken.
2. Pour into a baking dish and cover with puff pastry.
3. Bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden brown.

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7. Vegan Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy

Why It Wows

This hearty vegan meatloaf made with lentils, oats, and walnuts is packed with umami and topped with savory mushroom gravy.

Ingredients

• Cooked lentils (1 cup)
• Walnuts, finely chopped (1/2 cup)
• Rolled oats (1/2 cup)
• Onion, diced (1 small)
• Ketchup (2 tbsp)

How to Make It

1. Mix lentils, walnuts, oats, onion, and ketchup into a loaf pan.
2. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 35-40 minutes.
3. Top with mushroom gravy and serve.

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8. Stuffed Cabbage Rolls with Quinoa and Veggies

Why It Wows

Tender cabbage leaves encase a flavorful mix of quinoa, carrots, and spices for a hearty, plant-based main dish.

Ingredients

• Cabbage leaves (12 large)
• Cooked quinoa (2 cups)
• Carrots, shredded (1 cup)
• Tomato sauce (2 cups)
• Paprika and cumin (1 tsp each)

How to Make It

1. Boil cabbage leaves until softened.
2. Fill with a mixture of quinoa, carrots, and spices. Roll tightly and place in a baking dish.
3. Cover with tomato sauce and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 30 minutes.

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9. How to Elevate Plant-Based Mains

9.1 Use Bold Flavors

• Herbs, spices, and aromatics like garlic and onion add depth.

9.2 Highlight Seasonal Ingredients

• Squash, mushrooms, cranberries, and sweet potatoes shine in plant-based dishes.

9.3 Focus on Presentation

• Garnish with fresh herbs, pomegranate seeds, or nuts to make dishes visually stunning.

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10. Storage and Reheating Tips

10.1 How to Store

• Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

10.2 How to Reheat

1. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for best texture.
2. For smaller portions, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

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FAQ

1. Can I make plant-based mains ahead of time?

Yes! Many dishes, like stuffed squash or lasagna, can be prepared a day in advance and baked before serving.

2. How do I ensure a plant-based dish feels filling?

Focus on hearty ingredients like lentils, beans, nuts, and grains to create a satisfying dish.

3. Can I make these dishes gluten-free?

Yes, substitute gluten-free pasta, breadcrumbs, or pastry as needed.

4. What’s a good protein source for plant-based mains?

Chickpeas, lentils, tofu, quinoa, and nuts are excellent protein-packed options.

5. How do I make vegan gravy?

Use a mixture of vegetable broth, plant-based butter, and flour, seasoned with herbs and nutritional yeast.

6. Can I freeze plant-based Thanksgiving mains?

Yes, dishes like lasagna or shepherd’s pie freeze well. Thaw overnight and reheat in the oven.

7. What’s a good plant-based alternative to turkey?

Stuffed squashes, mushroom wellingtons, and vegan meatloaf all make excellent centerpieces.

8. How do I add umami to plant-based dishes?

Use mushrooms, soy sauce, miso paste, nutritional yeast, or smoked paprika for depth of flavor.

9. Can I serve plant-based mains with traditional sides?

Absolutely! Classic sides like mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables pair perfectly.

10. How do I keep plant-based dishes moist?

Use enough liquid, like broth or plant-based cream, and cover while baking to retain moisture.

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With these Plant-Based Thanksgiving Mains That Wow, you can craft a holiday meal that’s as hearty and festive as any traditional feast. These dishes not only showcase the richness of seasonal ingredients but also prove that plant-based dining can be as indulgent as it is wholesome.