16 Thanksgiving Proteins That Aren’t Turkey

Garlic Roast Beef

Feed a carnivorous army with this gorgeous garlic roast beef that is as juicy as it is flavorful. Slice this baby tableside, and your guests won’t be able to resist the aroma. (via Life Tastes Good)

Maple Walnut Crusted Salmon

This salmon deserves a place front and center at your Thanksgiving table. Not only do you have the sweet maple glaze, but you also get a welcomed crunch from the walnut crust in this recipe. (via The Healthy Foodie)

Stuffed Butternut Squash with Tempeh

This meatless (yet protein-packed) dish is a feast for your eyes and your mouth! It’s a vegan Thanksgiving treat that is almost too pretty to eat… almost. Bring this out of the oven and let the “oohs” and “ahhs” ensue. (via Pickles and Honey)

Beef Wellington With Roast Pumpkin, Parsnip and Mushrooms

This luxe beef wellington is sure to impress even the classiest of Thanksgiving guests. Whip this up for your in-laws and your M.I.L. will be wrapped around your finger! (via What’s for Lunch, Honey?)

Cranberry Apple Stuffed Cornish Hens

If you’re having a small Thanksgiving gathering this year, go with some Cornish game hens. Everyone gets their own bird, which makes for a beautiful presentation, and this recipe is even stuffed with fresh cranberries and apples! (via Running to the Kitchen)

Creamy Mushroom Pork Tenderloin

Time is of the essence during the holidays, so a hearty main dish is as precious as gold. Plus, if there’s a delicious gravy involved, it’s already a hit. This creamy mushroom pork tenderloin will be gone faster than it took you to make it! (via Salt & Lavender)

Herb Crusted Lamb Chops

Have someone you’re trying to impress this Thanksgiving? Break out these herb-crusted lamb chops and you’ll be considered a T-Day queen for many years to come! (via The Gourmet Gourmand)

Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf

Sure, meatloaf isn’t quite a traditional Thanksgiving main course, but with a sweet maple tomato glaze, it sure fits the bill flavor-wise. (via Connoisseurus Veg)

1-Hour Vegan Pot Pies

These individual pot pies are so adorable and full of rich flavor, no one will even notice they’re vegan. Plus, who doesn’t love getting their own little dish of food? (via Minimalist Baker)

Slow Cooker Pineapple Honey Mustard Ham

Ham isn’t only for Christmas, people. This juicy pineapple-glazed ham is perfect for any holiday meal. Bonus: it’s made in the slow cooker, which frees up tons of vital oven space. (via Serena Bakes Simply from Scratch)

Vegetarian Lentil & Butternut Squash Wellington

Cranberry Meatballs

These little spheres of flavor are a burst of savory and sweet, with a tangy cranberry glaze that's downright addictive. Forget the gravy – these meatballs will be the saucy stars of your Thanksgiving spread! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)

Grilled Lamb Chops

These lamb chops, perfectly seasoned and seared, bring a touch of elegance to your table. This is the premier choice for a feast fit for royalty. (via Feel Good Foodie)

Dutch Oven Whole Roast Chicken

Succulent, juicy, and infused with a medley of herbs, this bird takes center stage in a cast iron pot. Your Thanksgiving guests will be clucking about this chicken long after the last bite. (via Bowl of Delicious)

Roasted Vegetable Wellington

Imagine a golden puff pastry hugging a medley of roasted veggies, herbs, and savory goodness. It's like a Thanksgiving hug for your taste buds – a vegetarian delight that even carnivores will crave. (via This Wife Cooks)

Butternut Squash & Spinach Lasagna

Layers of velvety butternut goodness dance with sautéed spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella, creating a symphony of flavors that'll have your guests singing your culinary praises. This is comfort food elevated to a whole new level. (via Cozy Cravings)