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Without a doubt, the main course of any holiday meal is a large, roasted Thanksgiving turkey. However, that does not imply that there isn’t space at the table for additional main courses. You’ll definitely want another Thanksgiving main dish, like ham or beef, to serve alongside your favorite turkey recipe if you’re entertaining a large group of people this year. Additionally, those who detest turkey in general will be grateful that you considered making a vegetarian dish like butternut squash pasta or a chicken recipe instead. However, if you’re hosting Friendsgiving this year, maybe you’ll just want to serve a hearty Thanksgiving casserole or our recipe for chicken fried turkey to keep things informal. These are all excellent suggestions for making some changes.
Don’t get us wrong, if you have the time and oven space, Ree Drummonds’ citrus-brined turkey is a delicious holiday recipe. However, a lot of the Thanksgiving main courses on this list can be prepared even faster, which leaves more time for the holiday pies. For a 20-minute meal, try the herb-roasted pork tenderloin or the shortcut chicken and stuffing casserole! If you’re looking for something vegetarian, try the quinoa and mushroom stuffed acorn squash or the vegetarian pot pie! Naturally, any of these spectacular holiday dishes will go well with stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and more.
This updated version of a Southern classic is ideal for a less formal Thanksgiving dinner. You’ll still get your turkey fix, but it will come in the form of crispy fried turkey cutlets rather than a whole bird.
This recipe is the perfect combination of elegance and comfort. Chuck roast, carrots, mushrooms, pearl onions, and a robust red wine sauce are the ingredients.
This recipe for chicken thighs is drenched in the most amazing gravy we have ever seen, so just because you’re not serving turkey doesn’t mean you can’t have gravy!
This is a classy way to serve turkey that doesn’t require cooking the whole bird. The bacon, apple, and cornbread filling is rolled and stuffed into the turkey breast.
Thanksgiving is a time for family friends, and food. And while turkey is the traditional centerpiece of the Thanksgiving table, there are many other delicious options that can be served alongside your favorite dressing.
Whether you’re looking for a vegetarian alternative, a lighter option, or simply want to try something new, this guide will help you find the perfect dish to complement your Thanksgiving feast.
10 Delicious Alternatives to Turkey for Your Thanksgiving Dinner:
1. Ham: A classic holiday favorite, ham is a flavorful and versatile option that pairs perfectly with dressing. Choose from a variety of glazes and cooking methods to customize the flavor to your liking.
2. Pork Roast: Tender and juicy, pork roast is another excellent choice for your Thanksgiving table. Consider a flavorful dry rub or a sweet and tangy glaze to enhance the flavor.
3. Roast Beef: A timeless classic, roast beef offers a satisfying and elegant main course option. Choose from different cuts and cooking methods to achieve your desired level of tenderness and flavor.
4. Chicken: A lighter and more versatile option, chicken can be roasted, grilled, or even baked in a casserole. Experiment with different marinades and seasonings to create a unique and flavorful dish.
5 Fish: For a healthier and lighter option, consider serving fish as your Thanksgiving centerpiece. Salmon, cod, and halibut are all excellent choices that can be roasted, grilled, or baked
6. Vegetables: A colorful and healthy option, roasted vegetables can be a delicious and satisfying main course. Choose from a variety of seasonal vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash.
7. Grains: For a hearty and filling option, consider serving a grain-based dish as your main course. Quinoa, couscous, and wild rice are all excellent choices that can be prepared in various ways.
8. Nuts and Seeds: For a protein-packed and flavorful option, consider incorporating nuts and seeds into your Thanksgiving feast. Toasted walnuts, pecans, and pumpkin seeds can be added to salads, roasted vegetables, or even stuffing.
9. Cheese: For a decadent and flavorful option, consider serving a cheese platter as part of your Thanksgiving spread. Choose from a variety of cheeses, including cheddar, brie, and goat cheese, and pair them with fruits, crackers, and nuts.
10. Eggs: For a unique and satisfying option, consider serving an egg-based dish as your main course. Quiches, frittatas, and omelets are all excellent choices that can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
Additional Tips for Choosing the Perfect Thanksgiving Dish:
- Consider your guests’ preferences: Do you have any vegetarians or vegans attending your Thanksgiving dinner? Are there any dietary restrictions or allergies to consider?
- Think about the overall meal: How will your chosen dish complement the other dishes you plan to serve? Consider the flavors, textures, and overall balance of the meal.
- Don’t be afraid to experiment: Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to try something new. Be creative and experiment with different flavors and ingredients to create a unique and memorable meal.
With so many delicious options available, there’s no need to limit yourself to turkey for your Thanksgiving dinner. Embrace the opportunity to explore new flavors and create a Thanksgiving feast that everyone will enjoy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: What are some other traditional Thanksgiving side dishes that go well with dressing?
A: In addition to dressing, there are many other traditional Thanksgiving side dishes that can complement your meal. Some popular options include mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, and stuffing.
Q: Can I make my own dressing?
A: Absolutely! Making your own dressing is a great way to personalize your Thanksgiving meal. There are many different recipes available, so you can find one that fits your taste and preferences.
Q: What are some tips for making a delicious Thanksgiving dressing?
A: Here are a few tips for making a delicious Thanksgiving dressing:
- Use high-quality ingredients.
- Don’t overcook the dressing.
- Add some herbs and spices for flavor.
- Let the dressing rest before serving.
Q: What are some other tips for making a delicious Thanksgiving dinner?
A: Here are a few additional tips for making a delicious Thanksgiving dinner:
- Plan ahead.
- Shop for fresh ingredients.
- Take your time.
- Be prepared for unexpected guests.
- Relax and enjoy yourself.
By following these tips and exploring the many delicious options available, you can create a Thanksgiving feast that will be remembered for years to come.
Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole
This recipe for chicken cordon bleu is a throwback favorite that we’ve simplified by layering all the creamy sauce, cheese, and ham in a casserole rather than stuffing the chicken.
Get the Chicken Cordon Bleu Casserole recipe. Advertisement – Continue Reading Below.
This extra-thick cowboy steak is perfect for sharing, so if you’re planning to make steak for Thanksgiving this year, make sure it’s big enough to feed a crowd! Oh, and everyone will adore the ranch butter that’s on top.
Get the Cowboy Steak recipe.
Slow Cooker Pot Roast
Looking for a side dish to go with your turkey? This pot roast cooks in your convenient kitchen appliance until it’s perfectly tender, saving up valuable oven space.
Get the Slow Cooker Pot Roast recipe.