15 Best Thanksgiving Main Dishes Besides Turkey

Thanksgiving dinner is traditionally centered around a beautifully roasted turkey, but turkey isn’t the only delicious way to celebrate the holiday. Whether you’re tired of cooking the same meal every year, hosting a smaller gathering, accommodating different dietary preferences, or simply looking for something new, there are plenty of Thanksgiving main dishes besides turkey that can make your holiday dinner unforgettable.

From juicy glazed ham and tender prime rib to creamy baked pasta and flavorful vegetarian casseroles, these alternative Thanksgiving main dishes offer something for everyone. Some are elegant enough for a formal holiday feast, while others bring the warmth and comfort of a traditional family dinner.

The best part? You don’t have to sacrifice the familiar Thanksgiving flavors everyone loves. Many of these dishes pair beautifully with mashed potatoes, stuffing, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and other traditional holiday sides.

If you’re searching for the best Thanksgiving dinner ideas without turkey, these 15 delicious alternatives will help you create a memorable holiday meal.

Why Choose a Thanksgiving Main Dish Besides Turkey?

Turkey may be the traditional centerpiece, but there are several reasons to explore different Thanksgiving dinner options.

More variety: Serving something different can make your holiday meal exciting, especially if your family eats turkey every Thanksgiving.

Easier preparation: Some alternative main dishes require less cooking time, fewer ingredients, and simpler preparation than roasting an entire turkey.

Perfect for smaller gatherings: A whole turkey can be excessive when you’re cooking for two, four, or six people. Smaller roasts, chicken dishes, and casseroles may be more practical.

Different dietary preferences: Vegetarian, low-carb, and other dietary needs can make traditional turkey dinners less suitable for some guests.

New family traditions: Thanksgiving is about gratitude, togetherness, and sharing a meal. There’s no rule that says turkey must be on the table.

1. Honey Glazed Ham

Honey glazed ham is one of the most popular Thanksgiving alternatives to turkey. Its sweet, savory flavor and beautiful caramelized exterior make it a perfect holiday centerpiece.

Servings: 10–12
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 1½–2½ hours, depending on size

Ingredients

1 fully cooked bone-in ham (8–10 pounds)
½ cup honey
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup Dijon mustard
¼ cup orange juice
2 tablespoons melted butter
½ teaspoon ground cloves

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 325°F.
Place the ham cut-side down in a roasting pan and cover tightly with foil.
Warm the ham according to its package directions.
Combine honey, brown sugar, mustard, orange juice, butter, and cloves in a saucepan.
Simmer the glaze for 5 minutes.
During the final 30 minutes of heating, uncover the ham and brush it with glaze several times.
Heat to the appropriate internal temperature according to the ham’s label, then rest briefly before slicing.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, glazed carrots, and dinner rolls.

2. Garlic Herb Prime Rib Roast

For an elegant Thanksgiving dinner, garlic herb prime rib is an impressive alternative to turkey. This tender, juicy beef roast delivers rich flavor and makes any holiday gathering feel special.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: Approximately 2–3 hours, depending on size

Ingredients

1 bone-in prime rib roast (5–6 pounds)
4 tablespoons softened butter
6 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons fresh rosemary
2 tablespoons fresh thyme
2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 450°F.
Combine butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Rub the mixture over the entire roast.
Place the roast bone-side down in a roasting pan.
Roast for 20 minutes at 450°F.
Reduce the temperature to 325°F and continue roasting until the desired doneness is reached.
Use a meat thermometer; USDA guidance recommends 145°F with a 3-minute rest for beef roasts.
Rest for 20 minutes before carving.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Garlic mashed potatoes, roasted Brussels sprouts, creamed spinach, and Yorkshire pudding.

3. Slow Cooker Pot Roast

Slow cooker pot roast is perfect for families who want a comforting Thanksgiving dinner without spending the entire day in the kitchen.

The beef becomes tender while cooking alongside vegetables in a flavorful broth.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 hours on low

Ingredients

3–4 pounds chuck roast
1½ pounds baby potatoes
4 carrots, chopped
1 onion, sliced
3 cups beef broth
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Season the chuck roast with salt and pepper.
Brown it in a hot skillet for additional flavor.
Place potatoes, carrots, and onion in the slow cooker.
Add the roast.
Pour in broth, Worcestershire sauce, garlic, and thyme.
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours until the meat is fork-tender.
Serve with the vegetables and cooking juices.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Buttery dinner rolls, green beans, cornbread stuffing, and cranberry sauce.

4. Brown Sugar Glazed Pork Loin

Brown sugar glazed pork loin is an affordable and flavorful Thanksgiving main dish that combines savory pork with a sweet holiday-inspired glaze.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: Approximately 1–1½ hours

Ingredients

3-pound boneless pork loin
½ cup brown sugar
¼ cup Dijon mustard
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Rub the pork with olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Place in a roasting pan.
Mix brown sugar, mustard, and vinegar.
Brush the glaze over the pork.
Roast until the internal temperature reaches 145°F.
Rest for at least 3 minutes before slicing.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Sweet potato casserole, roasted apples, mashed potatoes, and green beans.

5. Oven-Roasted Whole Chicken

If you love the traditional flavor of Thanksgiving poultry but don’t want to cook a large turkey, oven-roasted chicken is an excellent choice.

It’s easier to prepare, cooks faster, and provides the familiar flavors of a classic holiday dinner.

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: Approximately 1½ hours

Ingredients

1 whole chicken (4–5 pounds)
4 tablespoons softened butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon, halved
2 teaspoons rosemary
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Pat the chicken dry.
Rub butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper over the chicken.
Place lemon halves inside the cavity.
Roast until the thickest parts reach 165°F.
Rest for 10–15 minutes before carving.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Traditional stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and roasted vegetables.

6. Creamy Chicken Alfredo Bake

For a Thanksgiving dinner that’s rich, cheesy, and comforting, creamy chicken Alfredo bake is an excellent nontraditional option.

This hearty pasta casserole is particularly popular with families who prefer familiar comfort foods.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound penne pasta
3 cups cooked shredded chicken
3 cups Alfredo sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup grated Parmesan
1 teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Cook pasta until just under al dente.
Combine pasta, cooked chicken, Alfredo sauce, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning.
Transfer to a greased baking dish.
Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
Bake for 25–30 minutes until hot and bubbly, reaching 165°F in the center.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted broccoli, and sautéed green beans.

7. Southern-Style Smothered Pork Chops

Southern-style smothered pork chops bring traditional comfort food flavors to Thanksgiving dinner.

Tender pork chops covered in rich onion gravy make a satisfying holiday meal that pairs beautifully with classic Southern sides.

Servings: 4–6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35–45 minutes

Ingredients

6 thick-cut pork chops
1 cup all-purpose flour
2 large onions, sliced
2 cups chicken broth
½ cup milk
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Season the pork chops with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Lightly dredge in flour, reserving 2 tablespoons of the flour.
Brown the pork chops in oil and remove from the skillet.
Add butter and sliced onions.
Cook until softened.
Stir in reserved flour, then gradually add broth and milk.
Return pork chops to the skillet.
Cover and simmer until the pork reaches 145°F, followed by a 3-minute rest.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Collard greens, cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, and macaroni and cheese.

8. Baked Salmon With Lemon Garlic Butter

Baked salmon is a lighter Thanksgiving main dish that still feels elegant and special.

The combination of garlic, butter, and fresh lemon creates a flavorful meal without the heaviness of traditional holiday roasts.

Servings: 6
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–25 minutes

Ingredients

2-pound salmon fillet
4 tablespoons melted butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons lemon juice
1 teaspoon paprika
1 tablespoon fresh parsley
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Place salmon on a lined baking sheet.
Combine melted butter, garlic, lemon juice, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Brush the mixture over the salmon.
Bake for approximately 15–25 minutes, depending on thickness, until the fish reaches 145°F.
Garnish with fresh parsley.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Wild rice, roasted asparagus, garlic potatoes, and green beans.

9. Classic Homemade Beef Lasagna

Lasagna may not be a traditional Thanksgiving dish, but it’s a fantastic option for feeding a crowd.

Layers of pasta, seasoned beef, rich tomato sauce, and melted cheese make this an especially satisfying holiday meal.

Servings: 10–12
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 50–60 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound ground beef
12 lasagna noodles
4 cups marinara sauce
15 ounces ricotta cheese
3 cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup Parmesan
1 egg
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Brown the ground beef until fully cooked, then drain.
Stir marinara sauce into the beef.
Combine ricotta, egg, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning.
Cook noodles according to package directions.
Layer meat sauce, noodles, ricotta mixture, and mozzarella in a baking dish.
Repeat the layers.
Cover and bake for 35 minutes.
Uncover and bake another 15–25 minutes until bubbly and the center reaches 165°F.
Rest for 15 minutes before slicing.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Garlic bread, Caesar salad, roasted vegetables, and dinner rolls.

10. Maple Glazed Roast Duck

Maple glazed roast duck offers a sophisticated Thanksgiving alternative with rich flavor and crispy skin.

Its slightly sweet glaze complements traditional holiday ingredients such as apples, cranberries, and sweet potatoes.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: Approximately 2–2½ hours

Ingredients

1 whole duck (5–6 pounds)
¼ cup pure maple syrup
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon orange juice
1 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Pat the duck dry and remove excess fat around the cavity.
Carefully prick the skin in fatty areas without piercing the meat.
Season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Place on a rack in a roasting pan.
Roast, periodically removing accumulated fat from the pan.
Combine maple syrup, soy sauce, and orange juice.
Brush the glaze over the duck during the final 30 minutes.
Continue roasting until the duck reaches 165°F.
Rest before carving.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Wild rice stuffing, roasted sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, and Brussels sprouts.

11. Vegetarian Stuffed Acorn Squash

For a meatless Thanksgiving dinner, stuffed acorn squash is both beautiful and delicious.

Roasted squash filled with grains, vegetables, nuts, and dried cranberries creates a festive dish packed with autumn flavors.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 45–60 minutes

Ingredients

2 medium acorn squash
1 cup uncooked quinoa
2 cups vegetable broth
½ cup dried cranberries
½ cup chopped pecans
1 small onion, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried sage
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Cut squash in half and remove seeds.
Brush with olive oil and season.
Roast cut-side down for 30–40 minutes until tender.
Meanwhile, cook quinoa in vegetable broth.
Sauté onion in olive oil.
Mix quinoa, onion, cranberries, pecans, and sage.
Fill the roasted squash halves.
Return to the oven for 10–15 minutes.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Roasted green beans, cranberry relish, mashed potatoes, and autumn salad.

12. Southern Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Southern baked macaroni and cheese is usually considered a side dish, but a hearty, extra-cheesy version can easily become the centerpiece of a vegetarian Thanksgiving dinner.

Servings: 8–10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35–40 minutes

Ingredients

1 pound elbow macaroni
4 cups shredded sharp cheddar
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack
3 cups whole milk
3 eggs
½ cup melted butter
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 350°F.
Cook macaroni until just under al dente.
Whisk milk, eggs, melted butter, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Combine pasta with most of the cheese.
Transfer to a buttered baking dish.
Pour the milk mixture evenly over the pasta.
Top with remaining cheese.
Bake for 35–40 minutes until set, golden, and at least 160°F in the center.
Rest briefly before serving.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Collard greens, roasted vegetables, cornbread, and cranberry salad.

13. Herb Roasted Cornish Hens

Cornish hens are perfect for a smaller Thanksgiving gathering or an elegant holiday dinner where everyone receives an individual portion.

They offer the familiar taste of roasted poultry without requiring a large turkey.

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50–70 minutes

Ingredients

4 Cornish hens
4 tablespoons butter
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 teaspoons rosemary
2 teaspoons thyme
1 lemon, quartered
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F.
Pat the hens dry.
Mix butter, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Rub the mixture over each hen.
Place lemon wedges inside the cavities.
Roast for approximately 50–70 minutes, until the hens reach 165°F.
Rest for 10 minutes before serving.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Cornbread stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, and roasted carrots.

14. Mushroom and Spinach Stuffed Shells

Mushroom and spinach stuffed shells are an excellent vegetarian Thanksgiving main dish that combines creamy cheese, tender pasta, and savory vegetables.

This recipe is especially useful when hosting guests who don’t eat meat.

Servings: 6–8
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30–35 minutes

Ingredients

20–24 jumbo pasta shells
15 ounces ricotta cheese
2 cups chopped spinach
1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
2 cups shredded mozzarella
½ cup Parmesan
3 cups marinara sauce
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 375°F.
Cook pasta shells according to package directions.
Sauté mushrooms and garlic in olive oil.
Add spinach and cook until wilted, then drain excess moisture.
Mix vegetables with ricotta, Parmesan, and half the mozzarella.
Spread marinara sauce in a baking dish.
Fill shells with the cheese mixture.
Arrange shells in the dish and cover with remaining sauce and cheese.
Bake for 30–35 minutes until hot and bubbly, reaching 165°F in the center.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Garlic bread, roasted Brussels sprouts, autumn salad, and green beans.

15. Slow Cooker BBQ Beef Brisket

Slow cooker BBQ beef brisket is a flavorful Thanksgiving main dish for families who enjoy smoky, savory comfort food.

The slow cooking process produces tender beef that can be sliced or shredded and served with classic Southern holiday sides.

Servings: 8–10
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 8–10 hours on low

Ingredients

4-pound beef brisket
2 cups barbecue sauce
1 cup beef broth
¼ cup brown sugar
2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 tablespoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
Salt and pepper

Instructions

Season brisket with smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
Place brisket in the slow cooker.
Combine barbecue sauce, beef broth, brown sugar, and Worcestershire sauce.
Pour over the meat.
Cover and cook on low for 8–10 hours until fork-tender.
Rest briefly, then slice against the grain.
Serve with the cooking sauce.

Best Thanksgiving sides: Southern baked macaroni and cheese, cornbread, collard greens, and roasted sweet potatoes.

How to Choose the Best Thanksgiving Main Dish Without Turkey

The best alternative depends on your guest count, budget, available cooking equipment, and the type of holiday meal you want to serve.

Thanksgiving need	Best main dish
Traditional holiday feast	Honey glazed ham
Elegant dinner	Garlic herb prime rib
Budget-friendly family meal	Brown sugar glazed pork loin
Small Thanksgiving gathering	Herb roasted Cornish hens
Easy hands-off cooking	Slow cooker pot roast
Vegetarian dinner	Stuffed acorn squash
Comfort food celebration	Southern smothered pork chops
Lighter holiday meal	Lemon garlic baked salmon
Large family gathering	Homemade beef lasagna
Southern-style Thanksgiving	BBQ beef brisket

Best Thanksgiving Side Dishes to Serve Without Turkey

Even when turkey isn’t on the menu, you can still enjoy all your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes.

Traditional sides pair beautifully with ham, beef, pork, chicken, fish, and vegetarian main courses.

Some of the best options include:

Creamy garlic mashed potatoes
Traditional cornbread dressing
Southern baked macaroni and cheese
Green bean casserole
Brown sugar glazed carrots
Sweet potato casserole
Homemade cranberry sauce
Roasted Brussels sprouts
Buttery dinner rolls
Creamed corn
Collard greens
Homemade gravy

For a balanced Thanksgiving menu, consider choosing one main dish, two or three hearty sides, one vegetable dish, bread, and a dessert.

Tips for Planning a Thanksgiving Dinner Without Turkey

Choose Your Main Dish First

Your main dish determines the cooking schedule and which side dishes will work best.

For example, a glazed ham pairs wonderfully with sweet potatoes and green beans, while prime rib works especially well with mashed potatoes and roasted vegetables.

Consider Your Oven Space

One advantage of choosing a slow cooker main dish is that it leaves your oven available for casseroles, bread, and desserts.

If you’re preparing multiple baked dishes, plan cooking temperatures and times ahead of Thanksgiving Day.

Prepare Ingredients the Day Before

Many Thanksgiving recipes can be partially prepared in advance.

You can chop vegetables, mix glazes, assemble casseroles, prepare sauces, and measure seasonings the day before.

Refrigerate perishable ingredients promptly and keep them properly chilled until cooking.

Don’t Overcomplicate the Menu

Thanksgiving doesn’t require dozens of dishes to feel special.

A flavorful main course, several delicious sides, and a homemade dessert can create a memorable holiday dinner.

Make Enough for Leftovers

Leftovers are one of the best parts of Thanksgiving.

Ham makes delicious breakfast sandwiches, pot roast can become beef stew, and leftover chicken can be used in casseroles or soup.

Refrigerate leftovers within two hours and use refrigerated leftovers within three to four days, or freeze them for longer storage.

Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving Main Dishes Besides Turkey

What is the most popular alternative to turkey for Thanksgiving?

Ham is one of the most common Thanksgiving alternatives. Honey glazed ham is especially popular because it’s flavorful, relatively easy to prepare, and pairs well with traditional holiday side dishes.

What meat can I serve instead of turkey on Thanksgiving?

Popular meat alternatives include ham, prime rib, pork loin, pot roast, brisket, roasted chicken, Cornish hens, duck, and salmon.

What is the easiest Thanksgiving main dish besides turkey?

Slow cooker pot roast, fully cooked glazed ham, and roasted chicken are among the easiest options. They require relatively simple preparation and can be served with familiar Thanksgiving sides.

What is a good Thanksgiving main dish for two people?

A small roasted chicken, two Cornish hens, individual salmon portions, or stuffed acorn squash are excellent choices for a Thanksgiving dinner for two.

What can vegetarians eat for Thanksgiving instead of turkey?

Vegetarian Thanksgiving main dishes include stuffed acorn squash, mushroom and spinach stuffed shells, vegetable lasagna, baked macaroni and cheese, and lentil-based roasts. For a vegan meal, choose plant-based ingredients and avoid dairy and eggs.

What is a good Southern Thanksgiving main dish besides turkey?

Southern-style smothered pork chops, honey glazed ham, BBQ beef brisket, and brown sugar glazed pork loin are excellent choices. Serve them with cornbread dressing, collard greens, baked macaroni and cheese, and sweet potato casserole.

Can I serve two main dishes for Thanksgiving?

Absolutely. Serving two main dishes gives guests more variety and can accommodate different preferences. Popular combinations include ham and roasted chicken, prime rib and salmon, or brisket and a vegetarian casserole.

Final Thoughts: Make Thanksgiving Dinner Your Own

Thanksgiving dinner doesn’t have to revolve around turkey to be meaningful, delicious, or memorable.

Whether you choose a traditional honey glazed ham, an elegant garlic herb prime rib, a comforting slow cooker pot roast, or a vegetarian stuffed acorn squash, the most important part of Thanksgiving is sharing good food with the people who matter to you.

These 15 best Thanksgiving main dishes besides turkey offer plenty of ways to create a holiday menu that fits your family’s tastes, traditions, and budget.

You can keep the classic Thanksgiving side dishes everyone loves while introducing a new centerpiece that might become a family favorite for years to come.

After all, Thanksgiving isn’t about what meat is on the table. It’s about gratitude, togetherness, and the memories created around it.

Which Thanksgiving main dish would you choose instead of turkey, and would your family be willing to try something different this year?