25 Savory, Meat-Free Casseroles and Pot Pies That Are Perfect for Thanksgiving

Electricity crackles through the atmosphere. As the holiday season hurtles towards us, our excitement grows exponentially, largely due to the prospect of sharing joyous moments with loved ones, savoring mouthwatering culinary delights, and creating lasting memories. Whether it’s your first Thanksgiving or you’re seeking to elevate your holiday feast, our diverse array of plant-based options and show-stopping entrées will help you create an unforgettable dining experience for all.

While classic casseroles and pot pies often rely on meat and dairy for flavor, the reality is that these components are not essential to creating rich, satisfying dishes or flaky, buttery crusts. By whipping up these treats, you’ll simplify your holiday preparations and create a more enjoyable atmosphere for everyone involved. Here are 25 mouthwatering meat-free casserole and pot pie recipes straight from the Food Monster App.

What a delightful twist on a classic dish! Would the earthy flavors of mushroom and celeriac pair harmoniously with the creamy richness of mashed potatoes? Let’s give it a go!

Improved text:
Can the earthy flavors of mushrooms and celeriac complement the comforting creaminess of mashed potatoes in this innovative Shepherd’s Pie variation?

This Mushroom and Celeriac Shepherd’s Pie from Rachel Carr promises to delight your holiday guests with its hearty, comforting flavors. Celeriac, commonly referred to as celery root, cleverly substitutes for potatoes within the dish’s filling, harmoniously combining with a diverse assortment of sautéed mushrooms and vegetables that are cooked in a rich thyme-infused white wine reduction, before being crowned with a velvety sweet potato mash.

Source: Rustic Cassoulet

While traditional French Rustic Cassoulet often features a rich medley of meats, this innovative plant-based version proves that deliciousness can be achieved without the need for animal products. Warmly inviting, this meal overflows with a medley of fresh, seasonal vegetables and the rich flavors of smoked vegan sausage. Perfect for the holidays!

vegan thanksgiving cookbook

With its rich history and warm tradition, no holiday embodies the essence of comforting home cooking quite like Thanksgiving does? Discover the perfect companion for a plant-based Thanksgiving with One Green Planet’s Gratitude: A Collection of Delicious and Innovative Recipes to Start Your Own Timeless Traditions.

In this cookbook, discover our top 100 plant-based Thanksgiving recipes, including Soft-Baked Pumpkin Doughnuts, Spiced Apple Cake with Cashew Frosting, Sweet Potato Chocolate Pudding with Nut Crumble Topping, Cinnamon Apple Hand Pies, and savory entrees like Roast Root Vegetable Stack With Dukkah, Vegducken: Butternut Squash Stuffed With Eggplant, Zucchini, and Mushroom Lentil Stuffing, as well as Seitan Roast With Sausage and Pear Stuffing, Apple Cider Gravy, and many more!

What a delightful twist on traditional casserole! Here’s your culinary masterpiece:

Sweet Potato and Eggplant Casserole

This autumnal treat combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the smoky depth of roasted eggplants, all wrapped up in a savory blanket of crispy breadcrumbs and melted cheese. Perfect for a chilly fall evening or as a side dish to impress at your next dinner party.

Ingredients:

* 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced
* 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
* 1 onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 1 cup breadcrumbs
* 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
* 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
* 1 tablespoon olive oil
* Salt and pepper to taste

Here’s a revised version: Bathed in the depth of tomato, chili, garlic, and spices, the baked eggplant is transformed into a culinary masterpiece that explodes with intense flavor in each satisfying bite.

Source: Savory Lentil Pie

With its hearty combination of tender lentils, aromatic spices, and flaky pastry crust, this Savory Lentil Pie by Elsa Brobbey embodies the quintessence of warm, comforting cuisine that satisfies both body and soul. As the lentils harmonize with the rich flavors of tomatoes, caramelized onions, and aromatic spices, the filling transforms into a sumptuous and profoundly savory pie that’s sure to delight. The flavors meld together in harmony with each satisfying bite, punctuated by a delightful textural contrast from the crunchy element. The flaky crust is crafted with a blend of coconut oil and white whole wheat flour, with spelt flour offering an equally excellent alternative. Subtle notes of turmeric, garlic, and cumin add depth to the mixture.

Source: Cheesy Veggie Divan

A classic chicken divan casserole typically consists of steamed broccoli, layered with a rich béchamel sauce comprising butter, heavy cream, dry sherry, and an assortment of melted cheeses. Despite its hefty reliance on dairy, this beloved recipe can seamlessly transition to a vegan version, preserving both rich, cheesy flavour and velvety smooth texture. Here’s an updated version of the text in a professional style:

Diane Smith’s Cheesy Veggie Divan boasts the nutritional benefits of cannellini beans and sweet, smoky red roasted peppers. These vegetables – carrots, cauliflower, and broccoli – are combined to provide an extra boost of nutrients.

What a delightful culinary creation! Here’s your improved text in a different style:

Crisp pastry gives way to the sweet harmony of caramelized onions, the tangy zing of capers, and the earthy depth of sautéed mushrooms in these delectable tarts.

Warm, freshly baked tarts are truly irresistible, filling the air with an inviting aroma that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you feeling cozy inside. Without a flaky crust, the richly flavored onion and mushroom filling in Emily Wilkinson’s Caramelized Onion, Caper, and Mushroom Tarts shines, perfectly caramelizing in the heat of the oven. With the addition of fragrant fresh thyme and a pinch of salty capers, these tarts are elevated to a truly exceptional level. Pair with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.

Source: Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie

The perfect harmony of comfort and autumnal delight: comfort foods and pumpkins. Here is the rewritten text: This delectable Pumpkin Shepherd’s Pie, courtesy of Ella Suihko, combines a bold and spicy chickpea tomato filling with a velvety layer of pumpkin puree. On a bleak, blustery, and drizzly day when the allure of salads has lost its appeal, there’s simply nothing quite like it to banish the chill from your bones. Although the ingredient list may appear extensive, this recipe boasts simplicity and ease of preparation, making it a breeze to create.

Source: Tempeh Pot Pie

Temple’s richly aromatic Tempeh Pot Pie overflows with a generous medley of tempeh, tender potatoes, and an assortment of colorful vegetables, all suspended in a deeply flavorful, savory gravy infused with the subtle warmth of smoked paprika, the herbaceousness of thyme, rosemary, and sage. The crust boasts a delightfully rustic texture, crafted from a unique blend of flours that develops a rich, golden brown hue as it bakes to perfection in the oven. Savoring this dinner will leave you eager to relive the experience.

What’s for dinner?

Here’s a delightful autumnal casserole that showcases the rich flavors of butternut squash, potatoes, and kale – all in one convenient dish. Savory sweet butternut squash, tender potatoes, and nutritious kale mingle harmoniously in a rich, velvety sauce, infused with a blend of aromatic seasonings. The resulting casserole is then transformed by the indulgent addition of vegan cheese shreds that melt into a golden, gooey, and delightfully stretchy crust. This comforting side dish is a budget-friendly and adaptable choice for holiday gatherings, as you can easily substitute different types of winter squash and potatoes based on your available pantry staples.

What’s for dinner tonight? How about a hearty, wholesome cottage pie filled with sautéed black beans, colorful vegetables, and topped with a crispy mashed potato crust?

Traditional beef is swapped out in favor of protein-rich black beans, which are cooked with onions, garlic, bell peppers, and tomatoes.

Is there anything quite as reassuring as a savory tart crowned with a generous helping of creamy mashed potatoes? Here’s a flavorful twist on the classic cottage pie: This recipe from Dan Waters combines tender black beans and an assortment of colorful vegetables – including carrots, cabbage, and wilted spinach – all slow-cooked in a rich, caramel-infused tomato sauce that adds depth to each satisfying bite. The finished dish boasts an impressive amount of protein, boasting a bright, fresh flavour that’s simply divine.

Source: Shepherdess Pie

Sasha Gill’s Shepherd’s Pie is sure to impress even the most discerning palates. A rich and satisfying dish is created by combining the savory blend of lentils, peas, and carrots with a velvety topping crafted from mashed sweet potatoes, aromatic garlic, and indulgent vegan cream cheese. Yum!

What’s for dinner? Our Cheesy Spinach and Tofu Casserole is a game-changer! With a rich, creamy sauce, tender tofu, and spinach galore, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.

Gunjan Dudani’s The Cheesy Spinach and Tofu Casserole showcases a unique plant-based cheese blend, situated between Parmesan and Mozzarella’s creamy richness, harmoniously complemented by the subtle nuances of wilted spinach and succulent baked tofu. Here’s an innovative twist on the classic casserole: this nutritious and filling dish is perfect for feeding a multitude while requiring minimal effort.

Source: Delicata Squash Bake

Here’s a revised version: Tradition meets innovation in this reimagined take on the classic sweet potato casserole, courtesy of Monica Stevens Le. Delicata Squash Bake combines roasted delicata squash with tart cranberries, crispy Brussels sprouts leaves, and an aromatic blend of warm spices, elevating the familiar dish to new heights. You’ll adore this place – perfect for families to create lasting memories together!

What a delightful combination!

Broccolini Pesto and Ricotta Tarts – A Savory Delight

Indulge in the rich flavors of Italy with these exquisite broccolini pesto and ricotta tarts. Fresh from the oven, these bite-sized morsels are sure to delight your taste buds.

The perfect blend of creamy ricotta cheese, vibrant green broccolini, and tangy pesto creates a delightful harmony that will leave you wanting more.

Indulge in these delightful Broccolini Pesto and Ricotta Tarts, courtesy of Sweet, Savory, and Free – an ideal choice to impress your guests at parties, brunch gatherings, or simply satisfy your cravings on a whim. Pesto’s rich, herby flavors are perfectly showcased in these delectable tarts. Broccolini, often referred to as baby broccoli, offers a concentrated dose of the nutritional benefits associated with its larger counterpart, providing an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, flavonoids, and antioxidants that spell out the richness of this superfood’s profile.

Source: Pastel de Choclo

Indeed, the Pastel de Choclo from Smith and Daughters bears a striking resemblance to classic shepherd’s pie, its comforting familiarity tempered by subtle nuances that set it apart. When prepared traditionally, this recipe typically features generous portions of tender beef; however, our experience suggests that eggplant makes a superior substitution, as it possesses minimal inherent flavour yet effectively absorbs and amplifies the dish’s flavours, maintaining its texture in the process. Savor this delightful dish alongside a crisp green salad, expertly dressed with our signature lemon and cumin vinaigrette.

Source: “Meat” and Potato Casserole

Elsie Kriz’s Meat-Free “Meat” and Potato Casserole: a comforting dish that not only nourishes the body, but also revives the spirit. Simple yet satisfying, this vegetarian masterpiece brings together tender potatoes, fragrant aromatics, rich fire-roasted tomatoes, and pungent fresh thyme, all bound together by hearty textured vegetable protein – a true crowd-pleaser for even the most devoted carnivores.

What’s a unique fusion of flavors and textures! Can this dish bring people together like a hearty shepherd’s pie should?

Here’s the rewritten text: This Black Lentil Charred Broccoli Shepherd’s Pie, a masterpiece from Stephanie McKinnie, exudes warmth, satisfyingly hearty comfort that never fails to hit the spot. This savory masterpiece combines the earthy sweetness of charred broccoli, the depth of caramelized onions, and the wholesome goodness of black lentils, all nestled within a rich layer of creamy mashed potatoes.

Source: Cheesy Rutabaga Casserole

Comforting indeed is a warm, satisfying casserole, evoking memories of home and hearty meals. Here is the rewritten text:

Rachel Hanawalt’s Cheesy Rutabaga Casserole defies expectations by delivering the comforting, golden-brown essence of a classic casserole while maintaining a surprising level of healthiness. A medley of kale, rutabaga, and onions is smothered in a rich, creamy cashew-based cheese sauce, destined to become a staple in any home kitchen.

Source: Mini Pot Pies

Miniature pot pies crafted by Hannah Sunderani – a harmonious amalgamation of vegetables like fennel, celery, carrots, and potatoes, infused with the earthy essence of lentils and the subtle aroma of thyme – a satisfyingly wholesome, comforting, and nutritious vegetarian delight. Here is a revised version:

A healthier twist on this classic dessert has been achieved by minimizing the amount of pie crust required and baking individual portions in cute, bite-sized servings – allowing you to indulge in more guilt-free treats!

Source: Minestrone Pot Pie

While this Minestrone Pot Pie by Liz Martone may appear unconventional at first glance, it still embodies the essence of a classic pot pie. A crispy, golden-brown crust gives way to a rich, savory, and chunky filling that’s sure to satisfy any appetite. This comforting pot pie boasts a hearty minestrone-inspired filling, featuring a rich broth, tender diced tomatoes, creamy beans, caramelized onions, and an assortment of colorful vegetables, all nestled within a flaky wheat biscuit crust infused with the subtle nuances of coconut oil and the herbaceous depth of rosemary. Talk about comfort food!

Source: Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Satisfy your cravings with this comforting Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, a crowd-pleaser that will delight both vegans and non-vegans alike. This vegetarian twist on classic shepherd’s pie offers a nutritious alternative by incorporating legumes as a protein-rich filling, boasting an impressive array of essential vitamins and minerals including potassium, calcium, and zinc, along with a boost of dietary fibre. The mashed potato crust, infused with the pungency of garlic, transforms the dish into a warm and inviting comfort food experience.

What’s your comfort food? For us, it’s creamy baked penne with kale and fennel. This rich and satisfying casserole is the perfect solution for a cozy night in, packed with tender pasta, wilted greens, and a hint of anise from the fennel.

Toss cooked penne with garlic butter, then spread it evenly in a baking dish. Top with a vibrant mix of sautéed kale and sliced fennel, followed by a blend of creamy ricotta and melted mozzarella cheese.

Savory, aromatic pasta mingled with soft kale, richly caramelized fennel, onions, and pungent garlic – a match made in culinary heaven. Do you have a taste for this? Why don’t we take it to the next level with a crispy, golden-brown cheesy crust and a sprinkle of fragrant, toasted breadcrumbs for an irresistible textural contrast? Are we there yet? This delectable Creamy Baked Penne with Kale and Fennel by Nancy Partington revolutionizes holiday gatherings.

Source: Creamy Cauliflower Bake

A standout recipe for the discerning cook: This creamy cauliflower bake, courtesy of Hannah Sunderani, boasts a winning combination of simplicity and sophistication. You can whip up this mouthwatering recipe in no time, requiring mere minutes of prep and a handful of simple ingredients. This delightful dish is a masterclass in textures: its velvety creaminess mingles with the sharp tang of cheese, while its savory essence and gooey center create an irresistible culinary experience. Meet your new favorite cheesy cauliflower bake, a scrumptious recipe sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters! Why settle for ordinary when you could have extraordinary? How about adding some crunch from toasted pecans or crispy bacon to give your side dish a satisfying texture? Or maybe a burst of flavor from caramelized onions, roasted garlic, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze? The possibilities are endless!

Source: Ratatouille White Bean Casserole

Here is the rewritten text in a different style:

Savor the essence of classic Provençal cuisine with Liz Martone’s hearty Ratatouille White Bean Casserole – a comforting, simplified twist on the iconic French dish. The vegetables have surrendered to the rich flavors of the tomato sauce, their textures melding seamlessly with the velvety white bean puree, a truly sublime culinary experience. This dinner offers a refreshing simplicity, featuring vegetables as the main attraction. To add substance and interest, consider pairing it with a whole grain like couscous or quinoa for a satisfying meal. With the guarantee of lingering tomato juices, one must prepare with a substantial French bread baguette to adequately mop them up.

Source: Portobello Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

This rich and satisfying Portobello Lentil Shepherd’s Pie from chef Megan Sadd boasts a delectable medley of French lentils, tender mushrooms, and vibrant vegetables slow-cooked in a depthful red wine reduction. Satisfyingly topped with a rich and velvety layer of mashed potatoes, this indulgent plant-based dish embodies the very essence of comfort cuisine.

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