Thanksgiving is a time for gathering with loved ones, sharing gratitude, and, of course, indulging in a delicious feast. But for those with dietary restrictions, particularly dairy intolerance, navigating the holiday menu can be a challenge. However, crafting a delectable Thanksgiving spread without dairy doesn’t mean sacrificing flavour or tradition.
Join us as we explore a collection of mouth-watering, dairy-free Thanksgiving recipes that promise to impress every guest at your table. From savoury appetisers and hearty main dishes to sweet, indulgent desserts, these recipes are designed to ensure everyone can partake in the holiday joy without worry. Let’s dive into a dairy-free Thanksgiving that’s as inclusive as it is delicious!
Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Recipes for Appetisers and Side Dishes
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without a spread of delectable appetisers and side dishes. These dishes set the tone for the meal, whetting appetites and showcasing the festive flavours of the season. For those following a dairy-free diet, these recipes ensure that everyone can enjoy classic holiday favourites with a modern, allergy-friendly twist.
1. Roasted Butternut Squash Soup
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our roasted butternut squash soup is rich in flavour and velvety smooth without a drop of cream, making a warm and comforting start to your dairy-free Thanksgiving meal.
Ingredients
- 1 large butternut squash, peeled and cubed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 litre vegetable stock
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground nutmeg
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Toss the butternut squash cubes with 1 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread on a baking tray and roast for 25-30 minutes until tender and caramelised.
- In a large pot, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the roasted squash, vegetable stock, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
2. Stuffed Mushrooms with Garlic and Herbs
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Our bite-sized stuffed mushrooms are a perfect appetiser, packed with a savoury mixture of garlic, herbs, and breadcrumbs. They are a delightful dairy-free Thanksgiving recipe that combines earthy mushrooms with a rich, herby filling.
Ingredients
- 250g button mushrooms, stems removed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup dairy-free breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Heat 2 tbsp of olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Mix the garlic with breadcrumbs, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Brush the mushrooms with the remaining olive oil and stuff each with the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place on a baking tray and bake for 15-20 minutes until the mushrooms are tender and the tops are golden brown. Serve your dairy-free Thanksgiving stuffed mushrooms immediately and enjoy!
3. Cranberry Pecan Salad with Maple Vinaigrette
This vibrant salad features tart cranberries and crunchy pecans, all tied together with a sweet maple vinaigrette—a perfect appetiser to add freshness to your dairy-free Thanksgiving meal.
Ingredients
- 6 cups mixed greens (such as spinach, arugula, and romaine)
- 1 cup dried cranberries
- 1 cup pecan halves
- 1 red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 apple, thinly sliced
For the Maple Vinaigrette:
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Combine the mixed greens, cranberries, pecans, red onion, and apple slices in a large bowl.
- Whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Drizzle the maple vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine. Enjoy this refreshing salad alongside your favourite dairy-free Thanksgiving dishes!
4. Green Bean Almondine
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Green Bean Almondine is a classic side dish made dairy-free by using olive oil instead of butter. This dairy-free Thanksgiving recipe is both elegant and simple.
Ingredients
- 500g green beans, trimmed
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, sliced
- 1/2 cup sliced almonds
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 3-4 minutes, then drain and rinse under cold water to stop the cooking process.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the blanched green beans and sliced almonds to the skillet. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beans are tender and the almonds are golden.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the beans and season with salt and pepper. Serve this delightful dairy-free Thanksgiving appetiser warm.
5. Garlic Mashed Cauliflower
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A healthier, dairy-free alternative to traditional mashed potatoes, this garlic mashed cauliflower is creamy and packed with flavour. It is a perfect side dish for hearty, dairy-free Thanksgiving recipes.
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cauliflower, cut into florets
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives, chopped (optional)
Instructions
- Steam the cauliflower florets for about 10-12 minutes until very tender.
- Combine the steamed cauliflower, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Using a hand blender, puree until smooth and creamy.
- Garnish with fresh chives if desired, and serve warm beside your dairy-free Thanksgiving main dish.
Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Recipes for Main Dishes
The main course is the star of any Thanksgiving meal, and it’s essential to have a variety of options that cater to all dietary needs. These dairy-free Thanksgiving recipes for main dishes ensure that everyone at the table can enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal without compromising on taste or tradition.
1. Herb-Roasted Turkey with Garlic and Lemon
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A beautifully roasted turkey is the centrepiece of any Thanksgiving feast. Our dairy-free Thanksgiving recipe for roasted turkey uses olive oil and fresh herbs to create a juicy, flavourful bird.
Ingredients
- 1 whole turkey (4-5 kg)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lemon, quartered
- 1 bunch fresh rosemary
- 1 bunch fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Rub the olive oil all over the turkey, including under the skin.
- Stuff the cavity with the garlic, lemon quarters, rosemary, and thyme.
- Season the turkey generously with salt and pepper.
- Place the turkey on a roasting rack in a large roasting pan. Roast for about 2.5 to 3 hours or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F) when measured at the thickest part of the thigh.
- Let the turkey rest for 20 minutes before carving. Enjoy this staple dairy-free Thanksgiving dish!
2. Spinach Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms
Our stuffed portobello mushrooms are a hearty and flavourful dairy-free Thanksgiving recipe, perfect as a main dish for your holiday feast.
Ingredients
- 6 large portobello mushrooms, stems removed and gills scraped out
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/4 cup nutritional yeast
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Brush the portobello mushrooms with 1 tbsp olive oil and place them on a baking tray. Roast for 10 minutes, then set aside.
- In a large pan, heat the remaining olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
- Stir in the breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, salt, and pepper, mixing well.
- Stuff each portobello mushroom with the spinach mixture.
- Return the stuffed mushrooms to the oven and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the filling is golden and heated through. Enjoy your dairy-free Thanksgiving portobello mushrooms!
3. Vegan Lentil Loaf
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Our vegan lentil loaf is a perfect choice for a hearty and flavourful plant-based main dish. It’s a nutritious and satisfying dairy-free Thanksgiving dish that will impress your guests.
Ingredients
- 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
- 2 cups water
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 cup breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tbsp water
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Combine the lentils and water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer, and cook for about 20 minutes until the lentils are tender. Drain any excess water.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed onion and garlic, grated carrot, breadcrumbs, flaxseed mixture, tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Press the mixture into a greased loaf pan. Bake for 45-50 minutes or until firm and golden brown on top.
- Allow the lentil loaf to cool slightly before slicing and serving.
4. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
These enchiladas are a delicious, dairy-free twist on a classic dish featuring sweet potatoes and black beans in a flavourful, spiced tomato sauce. They ensure a satisfying and inclusive dairy-free Thanksgiving meal for everyone.
Ingredients
- 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (400g) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chilli powder
- 12 corn tortillas
- Fresh coriander, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Boil the sweet potatoes for about 10 minutes until tender. Drain and mash.
- In a large pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Stir in the mashed sweet potatoes, black beans, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, and chilli powder. Cook for another 5 minutes.
- Warm the corn tortillas in a microwave or oven to make them pliable.
- Fill each tortilla with the sweet potato and black bean mixture, roll it up, and place it seam-side down in a baking dish.
- Pour any remaining filling mixture over the enchiladas.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until heated through.
- Garnish with fresh coriander and serve.
5. Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Ginger Sauce
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A quick and nutritious dairy-free Thanksgiving recipe, this tofu and vegetable stir-fry is bursting with flavours from a zesty ginger sauce.
Ingredients
- 400g firm tofu, drained and cubed
- 3 tbsp olive oil, divided
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
- 2 carrots, julienned
- 1 small onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tbsp cornstarch mixed with 2 tbsp water (for thickening)
Instructions
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the tofu cubes and cook until golden on all sides. Remove from skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, heat the remaining olive oil. Add the broccoli, bell peppers, carrots, and onion, stir-frying for about 5-7 minutes until just tender.
- Add the garlic and ginger, cooking for another minute.
- Mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, maple syrup, and cornstarch mixture in a small bowl.
- Return the tofu to the skillet, pour the sauce over the vegetables and tofu, and stir well. Cook for another 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens.
- Serve hot, garnished with additional fresh ginger if desired.
Dairy-Free Thanksgiving Recipes for Desserts
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without a selection of delightful desserts. These dairy-free Thanksgiving recipes for desserts ensure that everyone can enjoy a sweet ending to their holiday meal. Each recipe is crafted to be as indulgent and satisfying as traditional desserts, without any dairy.
1. Pumpkin Pie with Coconut Cream
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A classic Thanksgiving dessert, this pumpkin pie is made dairy-free with a creamy coconut milk filling and a perfect dairy-free crust. It ensures that your dairy-free Thanksgiving feast ends on a sweet and satisfying note.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/4 cups plain flour
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, solid
- 4-6 tbsp ice water
- For the Filling:
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk
- 1 can (425g) pumpkin puree
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1 tsp ground ginger
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 3 tbsp cornstarch
- For the Coconut Cream:
- 1 can (400ml) coconut milk, chilled overnight
- 2 tbsp icing sugar
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Instructions
- For the Crust:
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- In a bowl, combine the flour and salt. Cut in the solid coconut oil until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
- Add ice water, 1 tbsp at a time, until the dough comes together.
- Roll out the dough on a floured surface and fit it into a 9-inch pie dish. Trim and crimp the edges.
- Bake the crust for 10 minutes, then set aside to cool.
- For the Filling:
- In a large bowl, whisk together the coconut milk, pumpkin puree, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, cloves, salt, and cornstarch until smooth.
- Pour the filling into the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for 50-60 minutes or until the filling is set and the crust is golden. Let the pie cool completely.
- For the Coconut Cream:
- Scoop the solidified coconut cream from the top of the chilled coconut milk can into a mixing bowl (discard the liquid or save it for another use).
- Add the icing sugar and vanilla extract, and whip until fluffy.
- Serve the pie topped with a dollop of coconut cream. Enjoy this delicious, dairy-free Thanksgiving dessert!
2. Apple Crisp with Oat Topping
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Our apple crisp features a crunchy oat topping and sweet, tender apples, making a perfect dairy-free Thanksgiving dessert that’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 6 large apples, peeled, cored, and sliced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup rolled oats (gluten-free if needed)
- 1/2 cup plain flour
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Combine the apple slices, brown sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and lemon juice in a large bowl. Toss to coat evenly.
- Transfer the apple mixture to a greased baking dish.
- Mix the oats, flour, brown sugar, melted coconut oil, and cinnamon in a separate bowl until crumbly.
- Sprinkle the oat topping evenly over the apples.
- Bake for 40-45 minutes or until the apples are tender and the topping is golden brown.
- Serve warm with a scoop of dairy-free ice cream if desired.
3. Pecan Pie Bars
Our pecan pie bars have all the flavours of traditional pecan pie in an easy-to-serve bar format. It’s one of the best dairy-free Thanksgiving desserts you can enjoy after a hearty meal.
Ingredients
- For the Crust:
- 1 1/2 cups plain flour
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 tsp salt
- For the Filling:
- 3/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/2 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 cup coconut oil, melted
- 2 tbsp plain flour
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 3 cups pecan halves
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- For the Crust:
- Combine the flour, melted coconut oil, brown sugar, and salt in a bowl. Mix until well combined.
- Press the mixture into the bottom of a greased baking pan.
- Bake for 15 minutes, then set aside.
- For the Filling:
- Whisk together the brown sugar, maple syrup, melted coconut oil, flour, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth.
- Stir in the pecan halves.
- Pour the pecan mixture over the pre-baked crust.
- Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the filling is set and the top is golden.
- Allow to cool completely before cutting into bars.
4. Cranberry Orange Sorbet
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This light and refreshing cranberry orange sorbet is a perfect palate cleanser and a delightful dairy-free Thanksgiving dessert to end your meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup fresh cranberries
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1/2 cup water
- 3/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1 tbsp orange zest
Instructions
- Combine the cranberries, orange juice, water, and sugar in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes until the cranberries burst and soften.
- Remove from heat and stir in the orange zest.
- Let the mixture cool slightly, then blend until smooth.
- Strain the mixture through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solids.
- Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and freeze for 1 hour. Stir with a fork, then return to the freezer.
- Continue to stir every 30 minutes until the sorbet is fully frozen and slushy—about 2-3 hours total.
- Scoop into bowls and serve.
5. Chocolate Pumpkin Brownies
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Our chocolate pumpkin brownies are a rich and moist dairy-free Thanksgiving dessert, perfect for those who love the combination of chocolate and pumpkin.
Ingredients
- 1 cup pumpkin puree
- 1/2 cup coconut oil, melted
- 1 cup granulated sugar
- 1/2 cup cocoa powder
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1 cup plain flour
- 1 tsp baking soda
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 cup dairy-free chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
- Line an 8×8-inch baking pan with parchment paper.
- Whisk together the pumpkin puree, melted coconut oil, granulated sugar, cocoa powder, and vanilla extract in a large bowl until smooth.
- Mix the flour, baking soda, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until just combined.
- Fold in the dairy-free chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth the top.
- Bake for 25-30 minutes or until a toothpick inserted into the centre comes out clean.
- Allow to cool completely in the pan before cutting into squares.
Final Notes & Further Inspiration
As you prepare for a memorable feast, these dairy-free Thanksgiving recipes ensure that every guest can enjoy a delicious and inclusive meal. Each recipe is crafted to deliver maximum flavour and satisfaction, proving that dietary restrictions don’t mean compromising on taste or tradition.
For even more inspiration, explore our website’s collection of dairy-free Christmas dessert ideas to keep the festive cheer going, or dive into our collection of Halloween pumpkin recipes for creative jack-o-lantern carving and delicious pumpkin-based treats! Happy Thanksgiving!