What’s the first word that comes to mind when you hear Thanksgiving? There’s a possibility it’s “turkey.” However, there are many people who celebrate the holiday, but don’t eat meat. 

According to a study by the Vegetarian Times, 7.3 million adults in the United States are vegetarian, and this number is changing daily. If you are someone who doesn’t eat meat, fear not. You can still have a filling Thanksgiving Day, even without the turkey. 

If you don’t feel like going on a wild goose chase for vegetarian Thanksgiving recipes, here are some of the best recipes for each course of your meal.

These appetizers are less traditional than your usual cranberry sauce and cornbread: 

Sweet Potato Rounds with Goat Cheese

These are easy to prepare and look delicious! Topped with candied pecans and cranberries, even meat lovers will be excited about this tasty and sweet appetizer. 

Pumpkin Bread

If you feel that no meal is complete without bread, don’t worry because this recipe  will bring you as much happiness as the delicious pumpkin bread from Jos. It is simple to follow and even describes alterations you can make for vegan bread.

Side dish recipes that are even more delicious than they look:

Cranberry Apple Stuffing 

Stuffing is always a highly anticipated part of the menu. Surprise everyone by making the recipe even more interesting. Seasoned with cranberries and sage, this side is sure to please everyone at your Thanksgiving table. 

Baked Mac and Cheese   

Nothing is better than a classic mac and cheese side. This dish isn’t your grandma’s mac and cheese though, as it is baked to perfection with brie cheese and sourdough bread crumbs. This recipe is also unique because of its use of bigger pasta shells (which hold even more cheese) and more flavor than regular boxed mac and cheese. 

Festive and tasty main Courses for your vegetarian Thanksgiving:

Butternut Squash Ravioli

You’ll forget all about that dry, boring turkey once you taste this decadent butternut squash ravioli. This dish will satisfy everyone this Thanksgiving, as the ravioli has three different cheeses and is topped with browned butter and oregano bread crumbs. 

Spinach Quiche

This quiche is crustless, meatless and can be made in under an hour. The mozzarella and unique seasoning make this recipe extra special. Not only is it delicious, but this spinach-packed quiche is also healthy and low-carb. 

Finally, there is always room for these delicious desserts:

Salted Caramel Apple Pie  

It is simply not a successful Thanksgiving meal if you don’t finish off with pie. This recipe is much more interesting than any normal pie, with its use of sea salt, creamy caramel and honey. Also, the Tasty website has many unique pie designs to challenge yourself with this Thanksgiving. 

Pumpkin Pie Ice Cream

If you really want to impress your family, try this homemade ice cream. The pumpkin pie flavor adds that perfect taste of fall to go with your pie and successfully end your vegetarian Thanksgiving. 

Disclaimer: This is a menu for a vegetarian Thanksgiving. Some alterations may need to be made for a vegan Thanksgiving menu.