Thanksgiving is a time for family, gratitude, and of course, amazing food. But if you’re serving a mixed crowd — especially little ones — you already know that kids can be the toughest food critics in the room. Finding vegan Thanksgiving kid-friendly side dishes picky eaters will actually eat (and enjoy!) doesn’t have to be stressful.
With a little creativity and the right ingredients, you can build a Thanksgiving table that delights both adults and kids alike. The key? Familiar flavors, simple textures, and a touch of fun. From mashed potato cups to sweet roasted carrots, these side dishes are easy to make, totally plant-based, and full of kid-approved flavor.
Why Focus on Kid-Friendly Vegan Thanksgiving Sides?
Many classic Thanksgiving sides already lend themselves well to vegan adaptations. Mashed potatoes, stuffing, sweet potatoes, and green beans can easily be made without dairy or animal products. But when cooking for picky eaters, presentation and flavor balance matter most.
Here’s why focusing on kid-friendly vegan dishes makes a big difference:
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Inclusivity: Every guest — vegan or not — can enjoy the same meal together.
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Healthier options: These sides are lower in cholesterol, packed with nutrients, and often lighter.
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Less fuss at the table: When the food looks familiar and tastes comforting, kids are more likely to eat without complaint.
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Easy prep: These recipes are simple enough for even beginner cooks or busy parents hosting Thanksgiving dinner.
Let’s dive into ten delicious vegan side dishes designed to please the pickiest eaters while keeping your holiday table full of festive fall flavor.
1. Creamy Vegan Mashed Potatoes (Without Butter)
Mashed potatoes are practically mandatory on Thanksgiving — and the good news is, they’re just as creamy and delicious without dairy.
How to make them kid-friendly:
Use Yukon gold potatoes for a buttery texture. Mash with warm oat milk, olive oil, and a pinch of salt. Add roasted garlic for flavor if your kids don’t mind.
Tip: Let kids top their mashed potatoes with fun add-ons like peas, corn, or a drizzle of vegan gravy.
2. Sweet Potato Rounds with Maple Drizzle
These look like mini desserts but count as a side dish — perfect for getting kids excited about eating their veggies.
To make:
Slice sweet potatoes into ½-inch rounds, brush lightly with oil, and roast until tender. Drizzle with a mix of maple syrup and cinnamon, then sprinkle with crushed pecans or toasted oats for crunch.
Why kids love it:
They’re sweet, soft, and bite-sized — ideal for small hands and big appetites.
3. Mac and “Cheese” Cups
What kid doesn’t love mac and cheese? This vegan version uses a creamy cashew or carrot-based sauce baked in muffin tins for portion control and fun presentation.
How to make:
Cook elbow macaroni, toss with vegan cheese sauce, and spoon into lined muffin tins. Bake until the tops get slightly crispy.
Serving idea:
Kids can grab them by hand, making them perfect for casual or buffet-style Thanksgiving meals.
4. Roasted Carrot “Fries”
Kids love finger foods, and roasted carrot fries are the perfect healthy swap for traditional fries.
How to make:
Cut carrots into sticks, toss in olive oil, salt, and a touch of maple syrup, and roast until slightly caramelized.
Bonus tip: Serve with a kid-approved dip like ketchup, vegan ranch, or hummus.
Why it works:
They’re crunchy, sweet, and packed with beta-carotene — a win for both parents and picky eaters.
5. Mini Stuffing Muffins
Stuffing can be hit or miss with kids, but turning it into muffin form makes it irresistible.
How to make:
Prepare your favorite vegan stuffing recipe (using vegetable broth instead of butter or eggs). Spoon into muffin tins and bake until crispy on top.
Kid tip: Add diced apples or dried cranberries for a touch of sweetness.
Presentation matters: Serve these little stuffing cups on a platter — they’re easy to grab, fun to eat, and portion-friendly.
6. Cranberry Applesauce Cups
Sometimes kids prefer sides that lean on the sweeter side — especially when they balance out savory main dishes.
To make:
Simmer apples, cranberries, and a bit of orange juice with cinnamon until soft, then mash or blend until smooth. Spoon into small bowls or cups for easy serving.
Why it’s a hit:
It’s tangy, colorful, and looks like a dessert. Kids love helping themselves to “cranberry applesauce” without realizing it’s packed with fruit and fiber.
7. Vegan Green Bean Casserole (Simplified)
Traditional green bean casserole can be too rich or texturally complex for kids. A simplified version keeps it creamy and flavorful without overwhelming their taste buds.
How to make:
Steam green beans until tender-crisp. Toss with a light cashew cream sauce, then top with crispy fried onions or breadcrumbs.
Make-ahead tip: Prep the sauce the night before and assemble before baking.
Kid-friendly upgrade: Top with crushed crackers instead of onions for a milder crunch.
8. Cornbread Bites
Mini cornbread muffins are always a hit with kids — sweet, soft, and easy to hold.
To make:
Use a simple vegan cornbread mix made with plant milk and flaxseed as the egg substitute. Bake in mini muffin tins.
Serving suggestion:
Pair with vegan butter or maple syrup for dipping.
Bonus: You can even stir in corn kernels or a handful of shredded vegan cheese for a flavor boost.
9. Roasted Apple and Brussels Sprout Skewers
Kids are more likely to try something new when it looks fun — and food on sticks always wins.
How to make:
Alternate apple chunks and halved Brussels sprouts on skewers, drizzle with olive oil and maple syrup, and roast until tender.
Why it works:
The sweetness of the apple balances the mild bitterness of Brussels sprouts, making this combo surprisingly kid-approved.
Safety tip: For young kids, remove the skewers and serve as bite-sized pieces.
10. Vegan Sweet Corn Casserole
A creamy, custard-like corn casserole is comforting, simple, and a guaranteed hit among children.
How to make:
Mix canned corn, cornmeal, plant milk, and a touch of maple syrup. Bake until golden and slightly crisp on the edges.
Flavor tip: Add vegan cheese or diced red peppers for color.
Why kids love it:
It’s naturally sweet and soft — similar to cornbread but creamier.
Tips for Making Vegan Sides Picky-Eater Friendly
Even the most delicious vegan recipes can fall flat if kids are hesitant to try them. Here are some tried-and-true strategies to win them over:
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Keep portions small: Bite-sized or single-serving options reduce overwhelm.
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Balance sweet and savory: Kids often respond better to subtly sweet flavors.
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Avoid strong flavors: Skip heavy spices and stick with mild seasonings like cinnamon, garlic, or thyme.
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Make it interactive: Let kids assemble their own plates or decorate dishes with toppings.
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Add color: Bright, vibrant dishes look more appealing — think orange sweet potatoes, red cranberries, and green beans.
When kids see familiar colors and textures, they’re more open to giving new vegan dishes a try.
Planning a Kid-Friendly Thanksgiving Table
Beyond the food, creating a welcoming Thanksgiving environment helps everyone relax and enjoy.
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Give kids their own space: A small “kids’ table” with colorful plates, napkins, and name cards makes them feel included.
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Get them involved: Let them help mash potatoes, stir batter, or decorate cookies.
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Offer choices: Have a small selection of sides so they can pick what they want — a sense of control often leads to cleaner plates.
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Use fun names: “Sweet potato coins” or “stuffing muffins” are more inviting than “roasted vegetables.”
Make-Ahead Vegan Side Dishes for a Stress-Free Morning
If you’re hosting, the last thing you want is chaos in the kitchen. The best kid-friendly sides can be prepped ahead of time and reheated easily.
Make-ahead options:
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Mac and “cheese” cups
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Cranberry applesauce cups
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Mini cornbread muffins
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Mashed potatoes (reheat with a splash of plant milk)
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Stuffing muffins
Store them in airtight containers and reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Setting the Mood for a Family-Friendly Vegan Feast
Thanksgiving is about more than food — it’s about warmth, connection, and gratitude. A few small touches can elevate your meal and make kids feel included.
Add a bit of festive flair by decorating the table with autumn leaves, mini pumpkins, or homemade place cards. Encourage everyone to share one thing they’re thankful for before digging in.
And if you want to keep the cozy vegan vibe going beyond the table, check out The Dharma Store. Their vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton are perfect for relaxed family gatherings — comfortable, eco-friendly, and full of personality.
Sample Kid-Friendly Vegan Thanksgiving Side Menu
Here’s a suggested lineup to make planning even easier:
Main Vegan Dish:
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Lentil loaf or mushroom Wellington
Kid-Friendly Sides:
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Creamy mashed potatoes
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Sweet potato rounds
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Mac and “cheese” cups
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Cornbread muffins
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Cranberry applesauce cups
Optional Treats:
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Apple crisp with vegan ice cream
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Pumpkin spice mini muffins
This menu balances flavor, color, and texture — with dishes kids already recognize and love.
Final Thoughts
Creating vegan Thanksgiving kid-friendly side dishes picky eaters will love isn’t about reinventing the wheel — it’s about reimagining classic comfort foods with a plant-based twist.
From creamy mashed potatoes to sweet, crispy carrot fries, these dishes bring both nourishment and fun to the table. By choosing familiar, flavorful ingredients and a little creativity in presentation, you’ll have everyone — even the pickiest eaters — asking for seconds.
So this Thanksgiving, skip the stress and focus on connection, comfort, and compassion. With these sides and a little help from your plant-based pantry, your vegan Thanksgiving will be full of gratitude and good food for all ages.
For a stylish and sustainable finishing touch, explore The Dharma Store for vegan apparel that celebrates your lifestyle — perfect for holiday lounging or gifting.