Key facts
- Vegans avoid meat, dairy, eggs, honey and gelatin—but many traditional Thanksgiving dishes can be veganized with simple swaps [1]
- Plant-based milk alternatives like almond, coconut and oat milk work in any recipe calling for dairy [1]
- Common egg replacements include applesauce, mashed banana, vegan yogurt and pumpkin puree, each substituting for one egg [1]
The holidays can be challenging for those with dietary restrictions. Gatherings like Thanksgiving dinner involve loads of food, and a guest may feel uncomfortable asking you to change your dinner plans to accommodate them. Knowing how to make a Thanksgiving dinner that your vegan guests can enjoy is crucial [1].
People follow a vegan diet for many reasons. Still, whether a person is vegan for health reasons or simply as a lifestyle choice, it is essential to respect their dietary restrictions. Vegans do not consume animal byproducts, including meat, dairy, eggs, honey and even gelatin [1].
Dairy Alternatives for Thanksgiving
The good news is that it’s relatively easy to turn any dish into a vegan dish with a few minor substitutions, except for the Thanksgiving turkey. Dairy products like milk and cheese have plant-based alternatives that you can easily use in a recipe. These alternatives can include non-dairy milk like almond milk, coconut milk or oat milk [1].
Meat Alternatives
There are even meat substitutes as well. Some meat substitutes come from vegetables, and others are specially-made meat alternatives that mimic the real thing. Many vegans also use tofu as the “meat” dish while cooking. If you’re unsure whether a meat substitute is necessary for your vegan guest, ask them about their preferences [1].
Egg Alternatives
The challenging part can be figuring out how to veganize recipes that include eggs. Many stores carry plant-based “egg” alternatives, but there are also several alternatives, some of which you might already have in your kitchen. Use any of the following in place of one egg in a recipe [1]:
- ¼ cup unsweetened applesauce
- One well-mashed banana
- ¼ cup vegan yogurt
- ¼ cup pumpkin puree
Try flaxseed if you’re cooking a savory dish and need an egg alternative that won’t sweeten up the meal. Combine 1 tbsp. flaxseed meal with 3 tbsp. water and let it sit for about five minutes. The consistency should resemble egg whites and be slightly thick while still runny [1].
Ask Your Vegan Guest
Contact your vegan friend or loved one if you need help determining where to begin. Let them know you want to make your meal vegan-friendly and ask for any cooking tips or their preferences for alternatives. Chances are they will appreciate the effort and be able to help you make your Thanksgiving dinner both inclusive and delicious [1].
Need recipe inspiration? Browse numerous vegan Thanksgiving options online, from appetizers and side dishes to mains and desserts, including vegan green bean casserole, mashed potatoes, gravy, and mac and cheese [2].
Frequently asked questions
What foods do vegans avoid?
Vegans do not consume animal byproducts, including meat, dairy, eggs, honey and gelatin [1].
What can I use instead of milk in Thanksgiving recipes?
Plant-based alternatives like almond milk, coconut milk or oat milk work in place of dairy milk [1].
How do I replace eggs in vegan Thanksgiving dishes?
You can use ¼ cup applesauce, one mashed banana, ¼ cup vegan yogurt, ¼ cup pumpkin puree, or a mixture of 1 tbsp. flaxseed meal and 3 tbsp. water (let sit five minutes) for each egg [1].
Sources
- How to Make Your Thanksgiving Vegan-Friendly – Central Florida Lifestyle, 2025-11-02
- Best Vegan Thanksgiving Recipes – Plant-Based Thanksgiving Ideas – Delish, 2026-10-23
Originally published by Central Florida Lifestyle on 2025-11-02; updated October 23, 2026 with current information.
