Thanksgiving is often centered around the turkey, but these dishes are here to change that. Whether you're looking for a comforting side, a hearty main, or a show-stopping dessert, these recipes offer plenty of ways to fill your holiday table. Forget the turkey drama and focus on flavorful options that everyone will love. From savory to sweet, there’s something for every part of your feast that will make the meal memorable without the stress.
Cheesy Cabbage Beef Casserole
This hearty casserole brings together ground beef, tender cabbage, and plenty of melted cheese for a savory dish that’s perfect for Thanksgiving. It takes about 50 minutes to prepare and bake, making it a great option when you need something filling but not too complicated. The rich flavors of beef and cheese pair perfectly with the mild sweetness of cabbage. It’s a cozy meal that offers a comforting alternative to turkey.
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Gluten free pecan pie with maple syrup and maple dulce de leche cream
This pecan pie is gluten-free and features a sweet filling made with maple syrup and a decadent maple dulce de leche cream. The buttery pecans and rich maple flavors create a satisfying bite in every slice. It takes about an hour to make, but the result is a warm, nutty pie that feels festive. The creamy topping adds a silky finish that balances the crunch of the pecans.
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Cheesy Crack Chicken Casserole
A cheesy casserole loaded with shredded chicken, bacon, and ranch seasoning, this dish takes about 45 minutes to make. The creamy cheese sauce melts over tender chicken, while bacon adds a salty crunch. Ranch seasoning ties the flavors together, creating an irresistible dish for your holiday table. It’s a dish that’s so satisfying, you might forget about the turkey altogether.
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Greek Vegetarian Moussaka
This vegetarian moussaka layers roasted eggplant, spiced lentils, and a creamy béchamel sauce for a hearty, meat-free option. It takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes to prepare and bake, but the result is worth the wait. The flavors of Mediterranean spices mixed with the rich, creamy topping make this a standout dish. With its bold, savory taste, it’s a perfect centerpiece for a vegetarian Thanksgiving.
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Curry Chicken with Onion
This curry chicken dish combines tender chicken pieces with a rich onion curry sauce that’s packed with warm spices. It takes about 40 minutes to make and delivers a fragrant, spicy dish that warms you up from the first bite. The sauce is rich and flavorful, soaking into the chicken for a satisfying meal. It’s a bold dish that stands out on any Thanksgiving spread.
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Sheet Pan Paprika Chicken and Veggies
Juicy chicken thighs are roasted alongside colorful vegetables in this simple, flavorful dish. Paprika adds a smoky, slightly spicy kick to both the chicken and veggies, which take about 45 minutes to roast. The vegetables come out tender while the chicken gets crispy on the outside and juicy inside. This one-pan wonder is easy to prepare and tastes like a comforting home-cooked meal.
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Air Fryer Pork Belly
Crispy on the outside and tender on the inside, this air fryer pork belly is a quick dish, ready in just 35 minutes. The pork belly is seasoned and cooked until the skin is perfectly crackling, while the inside stays juicy. Each bite is a combination of salty, savory, and rich pork flavor. It’s a flavorful alternative to the usual Thanksgiving meats.
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Fried Halloumi Salad
Fried halloumi cheese takes center stage in this salad, offering a salty, crispy contrast to the fresh vegetables. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and refreshing addition to your Thanksgiving meal. The fried cheese is paired with a light vinaigrette that brightens up the salad. It’s a perfect side or light main for those looking to skip the turkey.
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Vegan Gluten-Free Pumpkin Pie
This pumpkin pie is both vegan and gluten-free, featuring a smooth, spiced pumpkin filling in a flaky crust. It takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes to bake, delivering a dessert that’s full of classic fall flavors like cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. The creamy texture of the pumpkin pairs perfectly with the crisp crust. It’s a delicious way to end your Thanksgiving meal, no dairy or gluten needed.
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Roast Rack of Lamb
This elegant roast rack of lamb is crusted with garlic and fennel, creating a savory and fragrant main dish. It takes about 50 minutes to prepare and roast, delivering tender, juicy lamb with a flavorful crust. The fennel adds a subtle sweetness that complements the richness of the lamb. This dish is a showstopper that might just steal the spotlight from the turkey.
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Chicken Pot Pie with Tarragon Gravy
This chicken pot pie is filled with tender chicken, vegetables, and a rich tarragon gravy, all wrapped in a flaky crust. It takes about 1 hour to make, offering a comforting, savory option for your holiday meal. The tarragon adds a subtle herbal note to the creamy gravy, balancing the hearty filling. It’s a satisfying dish that feels like a hug on a plate.
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Chicken and Stuffing Casserole Dish
Combining the flavors of chicken, stuffing, and vegetables, this casserole takes about 45 minutes to make and delivers all the holiday flavors in one dish. The stuffing absorbs the juices from the chicken, keeping everything moist and flavorful. Vegetables add texture and color, while the chicken stays tender. It’s like Thanksgiving in a single dish, minus the turkey drama.
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Chicken Marbella
This classic Chicken Marbella is a blend of sweet and savory flavors, with prunes, olives, capers, and white wine creating a rich sauce. It takes about 1 hour to cook and delivers tender, juicy chicken that’s packed with Mediterranean flavor. The sweetness of the prunes balances the briny olives and capers, creating a unique and memorable dish. It’s a delicious option that brings a little international flair to Thanksgiving.
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