I Swear By These 7 Thanksgiving Main Dish Recipes Every Year

Every Thanksgiving, I stick with 7 main dish recipes that never let me down. They’ve become a tradition because they work for big gatherings and smaller tables alike. Each one brings bold flavors without making the kitchen feel like a battlefield. Year after year, they’re the dishes everyone asks about before they even sit down.

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese.
Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Cauliflower Steaks

Cauliflower steaks with pomegranate and pistachios on a plate.
Cauliflower Steaks. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Thick slices that hold their own on the table make this a standout option. Cauliflower Steaks are easy to cook while still feeling hearty enough for a main dish. They pair well with sides or sauces, turning simple ingredients into something special. This is perfect when looking for something different but filling.
Get the Recipe: Cauliflower Steaks

Lentil Loaf

A slice of lentil loaf on a plate with sprigs of thyme.
Lentil Loaf. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A tender option that feels like a traditional centerpiece but is completely plant-based. Lentil Loaf offers a satisfying texture without requiring much fuss in preparation. It’s great to slice up and serve while feeling balanced with almost any side. A smart choice if you want a vegetarian spin to your holiday spread.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Loaf

Pumpkin Pasta

A bowl of rigatoni pasta with creamy sauce, topped with grated cheese, pumpkin seeds, and sprinkled with herbs.
Pumpkin Pasta. Photo credit: Hungry Cooks Kitchen.

Creamy and rich, this is a main that brings unique flavors to the table while still being easy to enjoy. Pumpkin Pasta works well for holiday dinners, focusing on bold but simple bites. The smooth texture of the dish makes it a balanced option for almost any gathering. Great for anyone keeping it simple but flavorful.
Get the Recipe: Pumpkin Pasta

Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower head cut in half, garnished with chopped parsley, on a white plate.
Roasted Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

A full centerpiece that’s as striking as it is hearty, making it perfect for Thanksgiving traditions. Roasted Whole Cauliflower is straightforward but brings a lot of depth when paired with sauces or sides. It’s visually impressive while keeping the meal flexible for all guests. Ideal for feeding a crowd or going simple.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Sweet Potato Soup

A bowl of sweet potato soup with bread next to it.
Sweet Potato Soup. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Warm and smooth, this soup brings a cozy feel to holiday dinner tables without being overly complex. Sweet Potato Soup is light but filling enough to serve as the main dish when paired with bread or rolls. The creamy texture fits right into family-style meals of all kinds. Easy to prepare and always a crowd pleaser for dinners.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Potato Soup

Vegan Nut Roast

A plate with a nut roast and potatoes on it.
Vegan Nut Roast. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Packed with sturdy texture, this roast combines heartiness and flavor in every slice. Vegan Nut Roast is a reliable choice for celebrations, focusing on bigger plant-based meals. It’s simple to serve and works well with sauces or additional sides. A standout for anyone wanting an alternative to traditional turkey dishes.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Nut Roast

Mushroom Risotto

A bowl of risotto with mushrooms and parmesan cheese.
Mushroom Risotto. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Creamy without being heavy, this risotto stands out as both comforting and flavorful. Mushroom Risotto brings enough depth to feel like the main focus of your meal while staying flexible with pairings. It’s easy to enjoy without feeling repetitive, making it popular every year for holidays. A great choice for keeping things warm.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Risotto

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