Thanksgiving Main Dishes That Are Not Turkey
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In addition to being a joyous time and a wonderful reason to gather your family in the same room, Thanksgiving is a holiday that inspires the chefs in all of us. However, sometimes things can get a bit dull because turkey is probably what comes to mind first, and cooking the same meal every Thanksgiving can steal away the beauty of the holiday. So, in this article, I’ll give plenty of ideas on what to cook for Thanksgiving other than turkey.
Honey-Glazed Ham
A classic choice for the holiday season, honey-glazed ham offers a sweet and savory flavor that pairs perfectly with traditional Thanksgiving sides. With its rich, caramelized crust it makes an impressive centerpiece that will definitely charm your guests.
Herb-Crusted Prime Rib
You can never go wrong with prime rib. Coated with a fragrant blend of herbs and roasted to perfection, it provides a luxurious alternative to turkey.
Whole Stuffed Chicken
Chicken can be served on Thanksgiving, too! Make it special by stuffing it with bacon and celery. Here is the recipe:
Roasted Vegetable Lasagna
For a hearty vegetarian option, roasted vegetable lasagna layered with creamy ricotta and rich marinara sauce is a delicious holiday choice. It’s a satisfying dish that even meat-eaters will enjoy!
Beef Stew
What about juicy beef in sweet and sour sauce? Sounds delicious, right? Serve it with pumpkin or sweet potato gnocchi, and enjoy!
Stuffed Acorn Squash
Stuffed acorn squash filled with quinoa, cranberries, and nuts offers a seasonal and visually appealing dish. This nutritious option is perfect for those looking to add more plant-based items to their holiday table, while still retaining the holiday festive richness and appeal.
Seafood Paella
If you want to give a Mediterranean twist to your Thanksgiving, seafood paella is your safest bet. This vibrant dish, filled with shrimp, mussels, and saffron-infused rice, adds an exotic twist to your holiday menu.
Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Another seafood recipe that I make for special occasions. It’s just so tasty and comforting that I love to share it with others.
Chicken Roulade
Chicken roulade, stuffed with spinach, mushrooms, and cheese, provides a flavorful and elegant alternative to turkey. Even though it is not as wholesome and traditional as turkey, it will bring a note of sophistication to your holiday table.
Turkey Breast Stew
I know, I know… I said no turkey. But for this recipe, you don’t need to buy a whole turkey; just turkey breast.
Pork Tenderloin with Apple Cider Glaze
Pork tenderloin, glazed with a sweet and tangy apple cider reduction, combines the gloomy autumn vibe with the festive holiday flavors in this tender and juicy dish. It’s a delightful option that complements classic Thanksgiving sides.
Chicken Thigh Piccata with Pasta
This is one of the simplest recipes on this list: tangy and lemony chicken piccata that comes straight from the Italian kitchen.
Vegan Mushroom Wellington
For a vegan centerpiece, mushroom Wellington with a flaky puff pastry crust and a savory mushroom filling offer a rich and satisfying alternative. This dish will definitely impress both vegans and non-vegans with its reach and savory notes.
Beef Bourguignon
This French classic made with tender beef, red wine, and aromatic vegetables, brings a gourmet touch to your Thanksgiving dinner. It’s a hearty and comforting dish perfect for the holiday season and even better when shared with your favorite people.
Duck à l’Orange
For a unique and flavorful option, duck à l’Orange combines the richness of duck with a sweet and tangy orange sauce. This elegant dish adds a touch of sophistication to your Thanksgiving table if you want to go for a classy holiday experience.
Baked Salmon with Dill Sauce
This baked salmon topped with a creamy dill sauce provides a light and flavorful alternative to traditional Thanksgiving meats. It’s a quick and easy dish that still feels special, but without all the messiness Thanksgiving dinner can create.
Butternut Squash Risotto
Butternut squash risotto, with its creamy texture and rich, earthy flavor, makes for a luxurious vegetarian main course. Classic, yet unconventional, it will definitely lighten up your already festive table.
Lamb Chops with Rosemary and Garlic
Lamb chops seasoned with rosemary and garlic are a flavorful and elegant main dish for Thanksgiving. Meaty, fatty, and very satisfying, this dish will make a delicious centerpiece for your holiday table.
Eggplant Parmesan
Eggplant Parmesan, layered with marinara sauce and melted cheese, is a hearty vegetarian option that will satisfy even the most devoted meat-eaters. Many consider it a side dish, but in the right amount served with the right sides, it is just as much of a main dish, as a meaty meal.
Moroccan Chicken Tagine
Moroccan chicken tagine, with its fragrant spices, dried fruits, and tender chicken, brings an exotic flair to your Thanksgiving meal. If you want to add a bit of an exotic twist to a traditional holiday, don’t think twice before you give it a shot.
Pumpkin Sage Gnocchi
Pumpkin sage gnocchi combines the flavors of fall into a delicious pasta dish. Festive and hearty, this dish will gather your guests for a holiday dinner they will talk about long after.
Stuffed Bell Peppers
Stuffed bell peppers, filled with a mixture of rice, vegetables, and ground meat or lentils, offer a colorful and nutritious main dish. You can tailor the filling any way you like, add your favorite seasoning, and enjoy a rustic Thanksgiving dinner.
Vegetarian Pot Pie
Vegetarian pot pie, filled with a creamy mixture of vegetables and topped with a flaky crust, is a hearty and satisfying main dish. It’s a perfect option for those looking for a meat-free alternative or are simply after a different kind of Thanksgiving meal.
Grilled Pork Chops with Cranberry Chutney
Grilled pork chops served with a tangy cranberry chutney bring together the flavors of fall in a delicious and festive dish. This is the pork alternative to the classic turkey Thanksgiving dinner and is just as satisfying.
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Spinach and ricotta stuffed shells offer a creamy and cheesy pasta dish that’s perfect for vegetarians. If you are looking for a nutritious, delicious, satisfying, and unusual Thanksgiving dinner, this could be just the thing you are after.
Grilled Vegetable Platter
A beautifully arranged grilled vegetable platter featuring a variety of seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, combined with sauces, dips, and various cheeses, offers a colorful and healthy main dish. Perfect for those who prefer a plant-based diet, this dish is also a chance for meat eaters to take a break from meat and enjoy a lighter, yet very satisfying dish.
Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s pie, with its layers of ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes, is a hearty and comforting dish. Perfect for a cozy holiday meal, this dish will delight you with its warmth welcoming your guests with open arms around your holiday table.