As the autumn season approaches, it’s time to start planning for Thanksgiving. This holiday is steeped in tradition, but many of us enjoy mixing things up by trying new recipes on the table. However, family gatherings can be a great challenge when introducing bold flavors, especially if your loved ones prefer to stick with what they know and love.
Fortunately, you don’t have to completely overhaul the menu to add some excitement. Why not try incorporating a few gluten-free options this year?
You can put a fresh spin on classic dishes without straying too far from tradition.
Whether your taste buds crave straightforward simplicity, creative twists on old favorites, or something entirely new and adventurous, there’s a place for everyone on our list. From those who follow a gluten-free diet by choice to those living with celiac disease seeking more options, we’ve got you covered.
Crispy Brussel Sprouts with Bacon
While some people may not be the biggest fans of Brussels sprouts, this recipe is sure to convert even the most skeptical eaters. The recent surge in popularity of these little green veggies has led to a newfound appreciation for their versatility – and what’s more versatile than roasting them to perfection and pairing them with crispy bacon crumbles?
This dish is perfect for serving alongside gluten-free appetizers or as a complement to your main course, guaranteed to please even the pickiest eaters. And let’s be honest, everything really does seem better with a little bit of smoky bacon thrown in – it’s the ultimate crowd-pleaser!
Gluten Free Stuffing
This beloved Thanksgiving dish gets a gluten-free makeover in our recipe, retaining all the flavorful goodness while catering to dietary restrictions. The best part? It’s surprisingly straightforward to prepare, allowing for effortless customization to accommodate both vegan and dairy-free requirements.
Pumpkin Pie Hummus
The humble chickpea-based dip has undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, with an astonishing proliferation of flavors and varieties. One particularly appealing iteration is the pumpkin pie hummus, which blends the classic Middle Eastern condiment with the warm, comforting essence of fall. This delectable gluten-free treat can be enjoyed as a savory appetizer, a sweet dessert, or indeed both, making it as versatile as it is delicious.
Gluten Free Pot Roast
Autumn’s cozy atmosphere is perfectly complemented by the warmth and comfort of a classic pot roast. This versatile dish has become synonymous with chilly nights spent gathered around the dinner table. The beauty of this gluten-free recipe lies in its ability to bring together an array of wholesome ingredients, including tender carrots, creamy potatoes, sweet onions, and a blend of spices that harmoniously tie each component together.
Gluten Free Turkey Gravy
As the quintessential American holiday, Thanksgiving provides a rare opportunity to break out the fancy dinnerware, including that elegant gravy boat gathering dust on your cabinet shelf. To elevate this special occasion, why not create a savory gluten-free turkey gravy to lavish over your mashed potatoes (or any other dish you’d like to smother in its rich, velvety goodness)?
Vegan Mashed Potatoes
When it comes to mashed potatoes, our top pick is actually a vegan recipe that’s so good, you’d never guess it’s plant-based. In fact, we’re such fans of Cooking Chew’s very own vegan mashed potatoes recipe that we think it’s a must-have on your Thanksgiving table this year – and the best part? It’s completely gluten-free, making it a fantastic option for those with dietary restrictions.
Nutty Chickpea Pilaf with Dried Cranberries
While pilaf may not be a traditional gluten-free option at many Thanksgiving tables in America, it’s an unexpected addition that’s unlikely to disappoint. This innovative dish combines rice, chickpeas, and cranberries in a way that will surprise and delight even the most conservative of guests during the holiday season.
Super Soft Gluten Free Rolls
You don’t have to sacrifice dinner rolls just because you’re serving a gluten-free Thanksgiving menu this year. The good news is that it’s entirely possible to enjoy the warm, fluffy goodness of fresh-baked rolls, even with dietary restrictions. And let’s be honest, the added bonus is that they’ll be incredibly soft and tender – the perfect accompaniment to your turkey and all the fixings.
Gluten Free Sweet Potato Casserole
This versatile sweet potato casserole not only adheres to gluten-free dietary requirements but also caters to those who are lactose intolerant or have nut allergies. Its unique topping, streusel, allows it to seamlessly transition from a side dish to a decadent dessert option.
Rainbow Carrots in Tarragon Brown Butter
Enlivening any meal with their vibrant hues, rainbow carrots are a surefire way to elevate even the most mundane dish into a stunning culinary experience. When it comes to Thanksgiving, this colorful ingredient can add a pop of excitement to your holiday table, while the tarragon brown butter brings a sophisticated complexity to the flavor profile.
Tried and True Southern Greens
As the centerpiece of your Thanksgiving celebration takes center stage, whether it’s a classic turkey or an unconventional alternative, these time-honored southern greens offer a flavorful and healthy complement to your holiday feast. With their rich flavors and vibrant colors, they’re sure to delight both traditionalists and adventurous eaters alike.
And don’t worry about sneaking in some extra veggies – with these delicious options, you can proudly declare that you’ve added some nutritional depth to the proceedings without sacrificing an ounce of flavor or tradition.
Butternut Squash Blossom
Indulge in a culinary experience like no other with this extraordinary butternut squash blossom appetizer. The harmonious union of sweet squash and savory bacon creates a flavor profile that will leave you wanting more. But what truly sets this dish apart is its stunning presentation, making it perfect for impressing guests at your next dinner party.
Crispy Cornmeal Crusted Eggplant with Smoky Harissa
While waiting for the main event, it’s common to crave something satisfying and crunchy to munch on. However, these crispy eggplant bites with a smoky harissa kick may have your family so thoroughly satisfied that they skip the turkey altogether. This innovative appetizer offers a tasty alternative to traditional nachos, making it well worth the trip to the grocery store.
Quinoa Stuffed Acorn Squash
One of the most innovative gluten-free recipes is this all-in-one stuffed acorn squash meal. The dish boasts an impressive array of ingredients, including onions, mushrooms, cranberries, celery, apples, and quinoa. Not only does it offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures, but it also provides everything you need in one convenient, natural package – the adorable acorn squash itself.
As such, this recipe may just be the perfect centerpiece for your gluten-free Thanksgiving celebration.
Vegan Scalloped Potatoes
Traditional Thanksgiving dishes get a creative twist with this innovative vegan scalloped potatoes recipe, where cashews take center stage. By substituting cashew cream for dairy-based ingredients, this dish not only caters to plant-based diets but also offers an exciting flavor profile. The star of the show, however, remains the humble potato, which still shines in its own right alongside the creamy addition.
It’s a match made in culinary heaven, where both the old and new come together in perfect harmony.
Creamy Pumpkin Soup
Pumpkin soup is a quintessential autumnal delight that deserves a prime spot on your holiday table. With just seven essential ingredients and a preparation time of approximately 45 minutes, this comforting and creamy concoction is an effortless addition to any festive spread.
The Best Gluten Free Mac and Cheese
While traditional mac and cheese may not be a staple on gluten-free menus, modern flour and pasta options have made it possible to enjoy this comforting dish on Thanksgiving and beyond. One standout recipe features an impressive six types of cheese, elevating it to a go-to for any occasion.
Roasted Garlic Parmesan Mushrooms
While some may have mixed feelings about mushrooms, it’s undeniable that when they’re infused with bold flavors like these roasted garlic parmesan mushrooms, even the most skeptical palates will be won over. The subtle sweetness of the roasted garlic and the savory richness of the parmesan cheese work in harmony to create a dish that’s impossible to get enough of.
Bacon and Sweet Potato Frittata
While the traditional frittata is often associated with brunch, our recipe gives it a fall twist by incorporating sweet potatoes. This versatile dish doesn’t have to be limited to morning hours either. In fact, its rich flavors make it an excellent choice for a savory appetizer or game-day snack.
Garlic Butter Herb Roasted Turkey
To achieve exceptional results when roasting a turkey, it’s essential to focus on the rub. This recipe presents a mouthwatering garlic butter rub infused with an abundance of fresh herbs, ensuring your turkey is smothered in a rich, savory coating that will elevate its natural flavor. The outcome is nothing short of breathtaking – you’ll be treated to tender, juicy turkey breast that’s simply divine.
Cast Iron Whole Roasted Chicken
Indulge in a cast iron whole roasted chicken on turkey day, and get ready to be pleasantly surprised. This mouth-watering dish will yield a stunningly juicy, succulent, and flavorful bird that pairs exquisitely with any of the side dishes you’ve carefully selected for your holiday feast.
Vegetable Soup
When it comes to a seasonally-inspired first course that’s both comforting and customizable, vegetable soup is the perfect choice for fall. This recipe not only happens to be gluten-free and vegan-friendly but also boasts an abundance of flavors. Feel free to get creative with whatever vegetables you have on hand, making it a great option for using up leftovers or incorporating fresh finds from the farmers market.
If you prefer to add a richer depth to your soup, you can substitute veggie broth with chicken broth – just keep in mind that this variation wouldn’t be vegan anymore.
Homemade Cider Elderberry Cranberry Sauce
Elevate your Thanksgiving side dishes with an innovative spin on cranberry sauce. This unique recipe combines bold flavors to create a truly show-stopping condiment. The harmonious blend of apple cider and elderberry yields a rich, complex taste profile, while the subtle nuances of cloves and nutmeg add depth and sophistication. Ditch the ordinary and opt for this game-changing cranberry sauce instead.
Paleo and AIP Onion Gravy
When catering to both gluten-free and vegan preferences, it’s essential to consider a gravy that complements the dish without compromising on these dietary requirements. To achieve this, you can create a rich and flavorful onion gravy using coconut milk as a base, along with your preferred fat source, sautéed onions and garlic, and an assortment of herbs and spices. This paleo- and AIP-compliant gravy is perfect for topping gluten-free, dairy-free mashed potatoes.
Instant Pot Pear Applesauce
Pears may not always receive the recognition they merit, but a swift pear applesauce is sure to elevate their status. With just three minutes of preparation time in an instant pot, this effortless recipe can be conjured up as a spontaneous appetizer or dessert. Its versatility allows it to be served at various temperatures, from warm and inviting to chilled and refreshing, making it an ideal solution for any occasion.
Green Bean Casserole
A classic holiday meal staple isn’t limited to traditional diets – a gluten-free green bean casserole can be just as satisfying and delicious. The combination of cheesy, garlicky, and creamy flavors is unmistakable, while the sliced almonds add a touch of elegance to the presentation. To elevate the dish further, consider adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar for an added burst of flavor.
Roasted Beet, Delicata Squash, and Black Bean Quinoa Salad
A holiday table is not complete without a pop of color, and this vibrant salad will add a splash of warmth to the occasion. The medley of ingredients, including earthy beets, sweet delicata squash, nutty sunflower or pumpkin seeds, smoky paprika, and protein-rich black beans, will delight the senses with each flavorful bite. And let’s not forget the tangy citrus dressing that brings everything together – it’s the perfect finishing touch.
Gluten Free Pecan Pie
Thanksgiving doesn’t have to mean sacrificing traditional flavors and textures for those with gluten intolerance. With a little creativity, you can craft stunning desserts that are not only gluten-free but also reminiscent of your favorite holiday treats. Case in point: this innovative pecan pie recipe, which cleverly replaces corn syrup with rich maple syrup, resulting in a dessert that’s just as indulgent and satisfying as its classic counterpart.
Swedish Apple Pie
To elevate the humble holiday dessert spread, we’re proposing a game-changing twist on the classic American apple pie. Inspired by Swedish cuisine, our recipe combines the warmth of cinnamon-infused pie crust with the velvety richness of homemade vanilla sauce and a sweet-tart apple filling. This reimagined treat is sure to become the star of your holiday dessert table.
Wild Berry Zinger Mimosa
As any holiday celebration comes to a close, there’s no better way to toast the occasion than with a refreshing beverage that complements the flavors of the feast. One recipe that perfectly fits this bill is the wild berry zinger mimosa, which strikes the perfect balance between sweet, tangy, bubbly, and light notes. The best part? You can customize it to your liking by adding your favorite fresh fruits or transforming it into a mocktail with sparkling water.
Whether you serve it before, during, or after the meal, this delightful drink is sure to bring joy and festivity to your holiday gathering.
The bottom line
Crafting a delectable and gluten-free Thanksgiving feast that leaves your loved ones in awe is an achievable and inspired concept. With the right approach, you can effortlessly impress your family with a mouth-watering spread that meets everyone’s dietary needs.