Home Vegan Post Vegan Thanksgiving Casserole Recipes: Family-Friendly Comfort Food

Vegan Thanksgiving Casserole Recipes: Family-Friendly Comfort Food


When Thanksgiving rolls around, the spotlight often shines on the turkey, stuffing, and pies. But for those embracing a plant-based lifestyle—or anyone who just loves comforting, hearty food—vegan Thanksgiving casseroles deserve a star role at the table. They’re easy to prepare, big enough to feed a crowd, and perfect for cozy family gatherings.

From creamy potato bakes to vegetable-packed dishes layered with flavor, these family-friendly vegan Thanksgiving casserole recipes combine nostalgia with nourishment. Every recipe here is plant-based, satisfying, and ideal for both vegans and non-vegans alike. Whether you’re hosting the main event or bringing a dish to share, these casseroles promise to warm hearts and fill plates.

Why Casseroles Belong on the Vegan Thanksgiving Table

Casseroles are the unsung heroes of the holidays. They’re versatile, forgiving, and easily adaptable for dietary preferences. But what makes vegan casseroles so special?

  • Crowd-pleasers: They can be made in large batches and reheated easily.

  • Full of flavor: Plant-based ingredients like roasted vegetables, grains, and creamy sauces deliver incredible depth.

  • Customizable: Gluten-free, nut-free, and soy-free options are easy to create.

  • Comfort food made compassionate: You get all the cozy, creamy textures—without dairy, eggs, or meat.

Let’s explore ten delicious casseroles that will make your Thanksgiving meal unforgettable.

1. Creamy Vegan Green Bean Casserole

A holiday classic made completely dairy-free, this dish captures everything you love about the original—with a plant-based upgrade.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 ½ cups sliced mushrooms

  • 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch

  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari

  • 1 cup crispy fried onions

Instructions:

  1. Steam the green beans until tender-crisp.

  2. Sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until golden.

  3. Whisk almond milk, cornstarch, and soy sauce; pour into the pan to thicken.

  4. Stir in green beans and transfer to a casserole dish.

  5. Top with crispy onions and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

Why it works: It keeps the creamy nostalgia of the traditional version while staying 100% vegan—and lighter.

2. Sweet Potato & Pecan Casserole

This sweet-and-savory dish doubles as a side or dessert. The creamy mashed sweet potatoes meet a crunchy pecan topping for a delicious contrast.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

  • 2 tablespoons coconut oil or vegan butter

  • 1 teaspoon cinnamon

  • 1/2 teaspoon nutmeg

  • 1/3 cup chopped pecans

  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions:

  1. Boil or roast sweet potatoes until soft, then mash with maple syrup, coconut oil, and spices.

  2. Spread into a baking dish.

  3. Mix pecans and brown sugar, then sprinkle on top.

  4. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

Why it’s family-friendly: Kids love the sweet flavor, and adults appreciate the holiday spice balance.

3. Vegan Shepherd’s Pie Casserole

A hearty casserole loaded with veggies and lentils, topped with creamy mashed potatoes—this one’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked lentils

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 2 carrots, chopped

  • 1 cup peas

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 teaspoon thyme

  • 4 cups mashed potatoes (made with almond milk and vegan butter)

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion and carrots until softened.

  2. Add lentils, tomato paste, thyme, and a splash of broth. Simmer until thickened.

  3. Spread the filling in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and bake at 400°F until golden.

Why it works: It’s a hearty main that even meat-eaters adore.

4. Butternut Squash & Spinach Casserole

This bright, golden casserole celebrates fall’s best produce and feels elegant yet comforting.

Ingredients:

  • 1 small butternut squash, cubed and roasted

  • 3 cups spinach, lightly sautéed

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 1 ½ cups cooked quinoa

  • 1/4 cup cashew cream or coconut milk

  • 1 teaspoon sage

  • 1 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

  1. Roast squash until caramelized.

  2. Sauté onion and spinach.

  3. Combine quinoa, cashew cream, herbs, and veggies in a casserole dish.

  4. Bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

Flavor tip: Add a sprinkle of vegan parmesan or toasted breadcrumbs for crunch.

5. Broccoli & Rice Vegan Casserole

This family favorite combines creamy textures and savory broccoli goodness. It’s a perfect side that pairs with almost any Thanksgiving main.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked brown rice

  • 2 cups broccoli florets, steamed

  • 1 cup vegan cheese sauce (made from cashews or potatoes)

  • 1/2 onion, diced

  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Mix rice, broccoli, and cheese sauce in a large bowl.

  2. Add onion, garlic powder, and seasoning.

  3. Spread into a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

Why it’s a win: Kids love the creamy “cheesy” taste, and parents love that it’s full of vegetables.

6. Vegan Cornbread Casserole

Cornbread meets custard in this rich, comforting side dish—without dairy or eggs.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup cornmeal

  • 1 cup creamed corn (vegan)

  • 1/2 cup canned corn kernels

  • 1 cup almond milk

  • 1/4 cup maple syrup

  • 1 teaspoon baking powder

Instructions:

  1. Combine all ingredients in a bowl.

  2. Pour into a greased baking dish.

  3. Bake at 375°F for 30–35 minutes until golden.

Serving tip: Top with vegan butter and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for an extra burst of flavor.

7. Vegan Mac & Cheese Casserole

No holiday is complete without mac and cheese, and this vegan version hits all the creamy, comforting notes you crave.

Ingredients:

  • 12 oz elbow macaroni (gluten-free optional)

  • 1 cup cashews, soaked and blended

  • 1 ½ cups unsweetened almond milk

  • 1/4 cup nutritional yeast

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder

  • Bread crumb or crushed cracker topping (vegan-friendly)

Instructions:

  1. Cook pasta and drain.

  2. Blend cashews, almond milk, nutritional yeast, mustard, and garlic powder until creamy.

  3. Combine pasta with sauce, then transfer to a baking dish.

  4. Sprinkle breadcrumbs on top and bake at 375°F for 20 minutes.

Why it’s perfect for families: It’s rich, nostalgic, and comforting—everyone goes back for seconds.

8. Lentil & Sweet Potato Bake

A powerhouse of protein and flavor, this casserole balances the heartiness of lentils with the sweetness of baked potatoes.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked lentils

  • 2 large sweet potatoes, cubed

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 1 teaspoon cumin

  • 1 teaspoon paprika

  • 1 cup vegetable broth

Instructions:

  1. Roast sweet potatoes until tender.

  2. Sauté onion, add lentils and spices, then combine with broth.

  3. Mix all ingredients in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for 25 minutes.

Why it works: It’s full of color, flavor, and nourishment—ideal for large gatherings.

9. Cauliflower & Chickpea Bake

This dish is a protein-rich, creamy, and slightly spicy casserole that brings warmth and comfort to your Thanksgiving menu.

Ingredients:

  • 1 small head cauliflower, florets chopped

  • 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 teaspoon curry powder

  • 1 cup coconut milk

  • Salt and pepper

Instructions:

  1. Roast cauliflower and chickpeas with olive oil and curry powder.

  2. Add to a casserole dish, pour over coconut milk, and bake for 25 minutes.

Flavor upgrade: Sprinkle toasted cashews on top before serving for crunch.

10. Wild Rice & Cranberry Casserole

A festive and visually stunning dish, this casserole combines nutty rice, tart cranberries, and warm herbs.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups cooked wild rice

  • 1/2 cup dried cranberries

  • 1/3 cup chopped walnuts

  • 1 onion, diced

  • 1 teaspoon sage

  • 1 cup vegetable broth

Instructions:

  1. Sauté onion with herbs, then stir in rice, cranberries, and walnuts.

  2. Add broth and bake for 20 minutes at 375°F.

Serving idea: Garnish with fresh parsley for a bright finish.

Tips for Perfect Vegan Thanksgiving Casseroles

  1. Use seasonal vegetables: Squash, potatoes, and kale bring flavor and freshness.

  2. Don’t skip the herbs: Sage, rosemary, and thyme tie the dishes to Thanksgiving tradition.

  3. Balance creamy and crunchy: Toppings like breadcrumbs, nuts, or fried onions add great texture contrast.

  4. Plan ahead: Most casseroles can be assembled the night before and baked fresh on Thanksgiving Day.

  5. Keep it inclusive: Offer gluten-free or nut-free options so everyone feels welcome at the table.

Family-Friendly Pairing Ideas

Vegan casseroles pair beautifully with these classic sides:

  • Vegan gravy drizzled over lentil or potato bakes.

  • Roasted Brussels sprouts for color and texture.

  • Cranberry relish for a bright, tangy contrast.

  • Fresh salad to lighten up a rich meal.

Finish with a cozy dessert—like a vegan pumpkin pie or apple crisp—to complete the feast.

Keeping It Kind and Cozy

Thanksgiving is about gratitude, togetherness, and comfort—and vegan casseroles embody all three. Each recipe here is full of warmth and compassion, crafted from ingredients that celebrate both tradition and ethics.

As you plan your meal, consider supporting sustainable, vegan-friendly brands that reflect your values. The Dharma Store offers vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton, helping you share your message of kindness and awareness beyond the dinner table.

Final Thoughts

These vegan Thanksgiving casserole recipes prove that comfort food can be cruelty-free, family-friendly, and full of flavor. Whether you’re cooking for kids, grandparents, or a mix of friends and family, there’s a casserole on this list to delight every guest.

From creamy green bean bakes to hearty lentil pies, each dish adds color and comfort to your celebration—no animal products required. This Thanksgiving, gather your loved ones, share a compassionate meal, and give thanks for food that nourishes both body and heart.