This is not your average holiday menu!
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There's nothing wrong with a traditional Thanksgiving dinner menu—you know the kind that sticks to classic Thanksgiving sides and a big, roasted turkey. But if you're someone who likes to branch out and try a new recipe from time to time, then this list of non-traditional Thanksgiving dinner ideas will do the trick! Whether it's a creative fall pasta recipe or a glazed turkey with a spicy kick, there's something for everyone on this list of recipes. Even those family members who think Thanksgiving traditions are non-negotiable will appreciate switching things up for a dish or two. After all, you can still serve up your favorite Thanksgiving pies at the end of the night!
Here, you'll find plenty of creative ways to ditch the same old turkey and stuffing, including unexpected main courses, fun Thanksgiving side dishes, tasty appetizers, and more. Think: pumpkin risotto, crab-stuffed mushrooms, sweet potato curry, and cauliflower gratin. Looking to skip the roasted turkey? No problem! Try a tender roast beef or an easy slow cooker pork chop recipe instead! You can also choose from one of the vegetarian Thanksgiving dinner ideas, like creamy butternut squash pasta or mushroom gravy. Once you have your non-traditional Thanksgiving menu planned out, all you need to finish the meal is a dessert that's equally unpredictable—like say, a chocolate Thanksgiving dessert?
1
Chicken Fried Turkey
Switch things up but keep it comforting at the same time! These crispy turkey cutlets are a great alternative to your classic whole roasted bird. Plus, they're incredibly delicious with the savory turkey gravy.
Get the Chicken Fried Turkey recipe.
2
Mashed Potato Pancakes
This twist on mashed potatoes is crispy, cheesy, and totally unexpected. You can even serve them up with green onions and sour cream for dipping.
Get the Mashed Potato Pancakes recipe.
3
Cheese Soufflé
Get ready to hear the 'oohs' and 'ahhs' when you bring this over-the-top side dish to the holiday table. It's an impressive savory soufflé that's light and cheesy.
Get the Cheese Soufflé recipe.
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4
Cauliflower Steak
These thick slabs of cauliflower are roasted to perfection. You can doctor them up with lemon pepper seasoning, bbq rub, or even top them with a drizzle of chimichurri.
Get the Cauliflower Steak recipe.
5
Pumpkin Mac and Cheese
This is not your typical mac and cheese, but it's still an all-around crowd-pleaser! The dish gets an extra dose of creaminess from pumpkin puree and the garlic butter breadcrumbs are the perfect finishing touch.
Get the Pumpkin Mac and Cheese recipe.
6
Ranch Potatoes
Instead of simple roasted potatoes, give your spuds a zesty ranch-flavored spin! They're extra crispy, flavorful, and delicious when served up with a hearty spoonful of creamy ranch dressing.
Get the Ranch Potatoes recipe.
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7
Butternut Squash Lasagna
For a hearty alternative main course that's just as impressive as the turkey itself, look no further than this butternut squash lasagna! Each layer is loaded with hot Italian sausage, butternut squash puree, spinach, and plenty of cheese.
Get the Butternut Squash Lasagna recipe.
8
Honey-Chipotle Glazed Turkey
Ree Drummond gave her turkey recipe a "little makeover" by making a glaze with plenty of heat. Even the gravy is made with adobo sauce from the can of chipotles!
Get Ree's Honey-Chipotle Glazed Turkey recipe.
9
Pumpkin Chili
Whether you're planning a Thanksgiving potluck or Friendsgiving menu, this fall-inspired chili is a comforting addition. The pumpkin puree and ground cinnamon make it feel extra-seasonal.
Get the Pumpkin Chili recipe.
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10
Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes
These sweet potatoes are like mini, individual versions of your favorite sweet potato casserole. They even have a crumbly streusel topping!
Get the Twice-Baked Sweet Potatoes recipe.
11
Blooming Onion
Surprise all your guests with a crispy appetizer that's as over-the-top as the turkey itself! It's just like the kind of blooming onion you might find at a restaurant.
Get the Blooming Onion recipe.
12
Pumpkin Risotto
Wow your family with a homemade risotto. It's something you might find at a restaurant, but it's surprisingly easy to make at home and this one is full of seasonal fall flavors.
Get the Pumpkin Risotto recipe.
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13
Bacon-Wrapped Turkey
If turkey is non-negotiable when it comes to your family Thanksgiving, we get it! At least make it a turkey like you've never seen before—wrapped in bacon!
Get Ree's Bacon-Wrapped Turkey recipe.
14
Potato Galette
Your friends and family will *flip* for this potato recipe made in a skillet. It's extra crispy and delicious no matter what your main course might be.
Get the Potato Galette recipe.
15
Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms
What do you get when you combine two retro classics (stuffed mushrooms and crab puffs)? Something crispy, tasty, and totally brand-new.
Get the Crab-Stuffed Mushrooms recipe.
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16
Pull-Apart Garlic Bread
Dinner rolls are great, but pull-apart bread that's loaded with butter, garlic, and parmesan cheese is even better. Everyone will be reaching for a second piece.
Get the Pull-Apart Garlic Bread recipe.
17
Roast Beef
If you're looking for a main course that's just as impressive as a big roast turkey, look no further! Roast beef is great for anyone who wants to try a different type of protein.
Get the Roast Beef recipe.
18
Mashed Sweet Potatoes
Skip the same old regular spuds in favor of these mashed sweet potatoes instead. They're a fun twist on a classic without stepping too far away from the traditional fare.
Get the Mashed Sweet Potatoes recipe.
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19
Chicken and Stuffing Casserole
This recipe has all the flavor of your traditional Thanksgiving dinner in a whole new form. The casserole recipe is perfect for potlucks or make-ahead meals.
Get the Chicken and Stuffing Casserole recipe.
20
Pumpkin Ravioli
Ree Drummond's trick for quick and easy ravioli is using wonton wrappers instead of pasta dough! The smart supermarket swap makes it a breeze to whip up this pumpkin-filled dish.
Get Ree's Pumpkin Ravioli recipe.
