Potluck season and Thanksgiving go hand in hand. Whether you’re attending a family gathering, a Friendsgiving, or a community dinner, casseroles are a classic go-to — they’re hearty, easy to transport, and feed a crowd. But what about when you want to bring something plant-based that everyone (vegan or not) will love? That’s where vegan Thanksgiving casseroles come in.
These dishes aren’t just dairy- and meat-free; they’re bursting with flavor, full of texture, and loaded with wholesome ingredients that embody the cozy spirit of the season. In this post, you’ll discover make-ahead, travel-friendly vegan casseroles perfect for your Thanksgiving potluck.
We’ll cover:
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What makes a great vegan casserole for a potluck
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Tips for transport and reheating
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Ten delicious recipe ideas that are both beginner-friendly and festive
What Makes a Great Vegan Casserole for Thanksgiving?
The best vegan Thanksgiving casseroles share three key traits: flavor, texture, and travel-ability. Here’s what to look for:
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Hearty Base: Use grains like rice, quinoa, or pasta; root vegetables like potatoes or sweet potatoes; or legumes such as lentils or chickpeas to create satisfying substance.
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Rich Flavor Layers: Combine savory herbs, roasted veggies, and umami elements like mushrooms, caramelized onions, or nutritional yeast to add depth.
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Moisture Balance: Since vegan casseroles don’t rely on cheese or cream for structure, binders like cashew cream, oat milk, or vegetable broth work beautifully.
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Easy to Reheat: Choose recipes that stay creamy or tender after reheating — dry casseroles lose their appeal fast.
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Crowd-Friendly: Stick to familiar comfort food profiles with a vegan twist — think creamy, cheesy, and warm.
Tips for Bringing Vegan Casseroles to a Potluck
If you’ve ever carried a hot dish across town, you know it’s an art form. Here’s how to do it right:
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Choose the right dish: Use a deep baking dish with a tight-fitting lid or cover tightly with foil.
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Insulate for transport: Wrap the casserole in kitchen towels or a thick blanket to retain heat.
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Reheat gently: Most casseroles can be reheated in the oven at 350°F for 15–25 minutes. Add a splash of plant-based milk or broth before baking to keep it moist.
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Garnish on-site: Add crispy toppings (like fried onions or breadcrumbs) after reheating to preserve texture.
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Label it: If you’re going to a mixed gathering, label your dish clearly as “vegan” — guests appreciate knowing what’s plant-based.
1. Vegan Green Bean Casserole (Classic & Dairy-Free)
Nothing says Thanksgiving quite like green bean casserole — and the vegan version is every bit as creamy and comforting.
Ingredients:
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Fresh green beans, blanched
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Mushrooms and onions, sautéed
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Plant-based milk
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Flour or cornstarch to thicken (use gluten-free if needed)
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Crispy fried onions for topping
Make-ahead tip: Prepare the sauce and beans the day before, combine, and refrigerate. Add the fried onions and bake before serving.
This casserole is a nostalgic favorite that even non-vegans will devour.
2. Sweet Potato & Pecan Casserole with Maple Crumble
This sweet-meets-savory casserole doubles as both a side and dessert.
Ingredients:
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Mashed sweet potatoes
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Maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg
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Oat-based crumble topping with pecans
Make-ahead tip: Assemble fully, cover, and refrigerate overnight. Bake fresh at the potluck.
The pecan topping adds a perfect crunch, while the sweet potatoes create a naturally creamy base — no butter or cream needed.
3. Vegan Mushroom & Wild Rice Bake
This earthy, umami-packed casserole feels indulgent but is loaded with whole foods.
Ingredients:
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Wild rice or brown rice, cooked
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Sautéed mushrooms, garlic, and onions
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Vegetable broth and a touch of almond milk
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Thyme and rosemary
Make-ahead tip: Assemble and refrigerate for up to two days. Add a little broth before reheating.
It’s hearty enough to serve as a main dish at a potluck and pairs beautifully with lighter sides.
4. Creamy Broccoli & Cauliflower Casserole
This crowd-pleasing casserole is reminiscent of the creamy broccoli bakes many grew up with, but without the dairy.
Ingredients:
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Steamed broccoli and cauliflower florets
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Vegan cheese sauce made from cashews, nutritional yeast, and garlic
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Breadcrumb topping for crunch
Make-ahead tip: Prepare everything, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.
This one reheats beautifully, and the vibrant colors look great on a Thanksgiving buffet.
5. Lentil Shepherd’s Pie Casserole
Perfectly cozy and satisfying, this casserole replaces traditional meat with seasoned lentils.
Ingredients:
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Lentils simmered with carrots, onions, and herbs
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Creamy mashed potatoes for the topping
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Olive oil or vegan butter to brown the top
Make-ahead tip: Assemble and refrigerate; bake covered, then uncover to crisp before serving.
It’s the ultimate comfort dish — filling, nutrient-rich, and a guaranteed hit at any Thanksgiving table.
6. Butternut Squash & Kale Casserole
Bright, slightly sweet, and deeply flavorful, this casserole is a vibrant, wholesome option for your potluck.
Ingredients:
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Roasted butternut squash cubes
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Sautéed kale and garlic
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Cashew-based cream sauce
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Toasted breadcrumbs for texture
Make-ahead tip: Roast squash and blend sauce in advance; assemble and bake fresh.
This casserole looks stunning on the table, and the mix of colors screams “fall comfort.”
7. Vegan Mac and Cheese Bake
A potluck without mac and cheese? Unthinkable. This vegan version is just as rich and satisfying.
Ingredients:
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Elbow pasta
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Cashew cheese sauce (or store-bought vegan cheese)
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Dijon mustard and garlic powder for depth
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Breadcrumb topping
Make-ahead tip: Cook the pasta and sauce ahead; combine and refrigerate. Bake with breadcrumbs right before serving.
This dish is universally loved — creamy, familiar, and so comforting that even meat-eaters won’t miss the dairy.
8. Vegan Cornbread Casserole
Cornbread casserole is a Southern Thanksgiving staple — slightly sweet, moist, and golden.
Ingredients:
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Cornmeal, flour, and plant milk
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Corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
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Maple syrup or agave for a hint of sweetness
Make-ahead tip: Mix the batter ahead and bake the morning of your potluck.
Serve it with vegan gravy or cranberry sauce — it balances savory main dishes beautifully.
9. Harvest Vegetable & Quinoa Bake
A lighter, protein-packed option that’s colorful and hearty enough for any holiday spread.
Ingredients:
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Cooked quinoa
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Roasted vegetables (carrots, Brussels sprouts, parsnips)
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Olive oil, herbs, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze
Make-ahead tip: Combine ingredients and refrigerate up to 48 hours before baking.
This casserole is fresh, fragrant, and pairs well with heavier sides like mashed potatoes or stuffing.
10. Vegan Stuffing Casserole with Apples and Walnuts
Stuffing doesn’t have to be an afterthought — it can be the star.
Ingredients:
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Cubed day-old bread (use sourdough or multigrain)
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Celery, onion, apple, and herbs
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Vegetable broth for moisture
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Chopped walnuts for texture
Make-ahead tip: Prepare and refrigerate; bake until golden on top before serving.
This casserole gives you that classic Thanksgiving flavor profile with a plant-based, nutty twist.
How to Keep Your Vegan Casseroles Travel-Ready
If you’re transporting your dish to a potluck, keep these simple techniques in mind:
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Use foil and towels for insulation: Keeps your dish warm for up to an hour.
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Bring your own serving utensils: Don’t rely on your host to have extras.
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Label allergens: Mention if your casserole includes nuts, soy, or gluten alternatives.
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Reheat on-site if possible: Bring an oven-safe container or slow cooker insert.
How to Build a Complete Potluck Contribution
If you want to impress your host, bring one casserole plus a simple garnish or side that complements it — like a vegan gravy, cranberry sauce, or salad.
You can also prepare a double batch and keep half at home for leftovers (trust us, you’ll be glad you did).
And while you’re planning your plant-based contribution, consider adding a personal touch to your presentation — like a cloth napkin, a tag with the recipe, or a little note about the ingredients. It’s a thoughtful, zero-waste way to stand out at your Thanksgiving gathering.
Hosting with Compassion and Style
Vegan casseroles aren’t just about food — they’re about community, creativity, and compassion. When you share plant-based dishes, you’re introducing others to the richness and comfort that vegan cooking offers.
If you’re passionate about spreading that message beyond the kitchen, check out The Dharma Store — they offer vegan-themed t-shirts made from organic cotton. It’s a great way to represent your values and spark conversations at your next gathering.
Final Thoughts
When it comes to Thanksgiving potlucks, vegan casseroles are the ultimate contribution. They’re filling, easy to prep, and universally loved. From creamy mac and cheese to earthy lentil shepherd’s pie, these dishes prove that plant-based cooking can satisfy any crowd.
With the right planning, you can show up to your Thanksgiving potluck relaxed, confident, and ready to share something delicious — all while honoring compassion and sustainability.
So pick your favorite casserole, make it ahead, pack it with care, and get ready to wow your fellow guests with the best vegan dish at the table.