Ready to shake up your Thanksgiving menu with something new and exciting? Here’s your chance to explore delicious alternatives to the traditional turkey.
Maybe you’re cooking for fewer people this year. Perhaps you have guests with different diets, or you simply want to try something different. We’ve rounded up some mouthwatering main dishes that keep the holiday vibes strong — no turkey needed.
1. Roasted chicken
Roasted chicken is a great choice if you’re looking for a smaller, simpler option than turkey. It’s easy to get juicy, tender meat with that classic roasted flavor that makes Thanksgiving feel special.
Roasting a chicken takes less time and effort than preparing a full-sized turkey. And it is a convenient main dish that doesn’t sacrifice taste.
Seasoning the chicken with rosemary, thyme, lemon, and garlic gives it that holiday feel. This combination of herbs brings out warm flavors that complement the chicken, creating a dish that’s both delicious and festive. With its golden-brown skin and rich aroma, roasted chicken makes a satisfying main for any Thanksgiving table.
2. Ham
Thanksgiving ham is another crowd-pleaser that brings a nice mix of savory and sweet to the meal. It’s a popular choice for holiday gatherings because it offers a different flavor profile from poultry while still feeling celebratory. Preparing a ham is straightforward, and its natural sweetness pairs well with traditional holiday glazes.
Add extra flavor with a maple syrup, honey mustard, or brown sugar glaze. This creates a caramelized crust packed with flavor.
Ham pairs well with sides like roasted potatoes, green beans, or a fresh salad, adding balance to the meal. The sweet and savory mix makes ham a versatile choice that fits right in with other holiday dishes.
3. Prime rib roast
Prime rib is also a great choice if you’re serving beef lovers and want to add something special to the table. Known for its rich, hearty flavor — prime rib brings a touch of luxury to the holiday meal.
The key to a tender roast is to cook it low and slow. This allows the flavors to develop and the meat to become melt-in-your-mouth tender.
Season the prime rib with garlic, fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme, and a bit of butter to enhance its natural taste. The result is a juicy, flavorful roast with a golden-brown crust. Prime rib has that traditional, rich taste and feel that works well for Thanksgiving, especially if you’re looking to impress your guests with something different from the usual turkey.
4. Salmon or seafood platter
If you’re looking for a lighter main dish, consider oven-baked salmon or a mix of seafood for a refreshing change. Roasting, grilling, or smoking seafood brings out different textures and flavors. It makes seafood an interesting option for Thanksgiving. Salmon’s rich flavor and flaky texture make it a good stand-alone choice, while a seafood platter adds variety for guests.
Pair seafood with seasonal vegetables like roasted Brussels sprouts or asparagus. It’s also great with grains like quinoa to make a complete meal.
A light sauce like dill or lemon butter brings a fresh, bright flavor. It complements the seafood. This option is great for those who prefer a lighter main course but still want something flavorful and festive.
5. Vegetarian options
Need a good veggie option? Here are a few I’ve tried that work really well as main dishes:
Stuffed squash or pumpkin
- Roast a squash or pumpkin and fill it with grains, nuts, and veggies for a dish that looks festive and tastes great.
Vegetable wellington
- This is a plant-based take on Beef Wellington. It’s filled with mushrooms and veggies and wrapped in puff pastry. It’s warm, flavorful, and hearty enough to stand as the main dish.
Portobello mushroom roast
- Portobello mushrooms have a nice, meaty texture. I season them with herbs and a splash of balsamic vinegar. This adds extra depth and makes them a solid centerpiece.
Tips for choosing the best Thanksgiving main dish
- Consider your guests’ needs: Try mixing it up with a few different options. This way, everyone has something they’ll enjoy.
- Stick with traditional flavors: Using Thanksgiving herbs like rosemary, sage, and cinnamon gives any main dish a cozy, holiday feel.
- Plan for leftovers: Roasted chicken, ham, and prime rib make great leftovers. They’re perfect for sandwiches, salads, or as sides the next day.
Trying out new traditions
Thanksgiving is all about spending time with the people you love. Adding a new dish can make things feel fresh and keep it fun, without losing that cozy, holiday feel. A roasted chicken or a vegetable Wellington can bring something new to the table while keeping the warmth of Thanksgiving.
