Break tradition with these show-stopping turkey alternatives for Thanksgiving.
Who says Thanksgiving dinner has to revolve around turkey? If you're ready to break with tradition and serve something truly spectacular this holiday season, these 13 turkey alternatives for Thanksgiving offer elegant, flavorful options that will have your guests raving.
These recipes work for any size gathering and include options for every taste. You'll find make-ahead dishes that reduce stress on the big day, quick-cooking options for smaller celebrations, and show-stopping centerpieces that will have everyone asking for the recipe. Each one delivers great flavor and gives you a chance to try something new this Thanksgiving.
1. Beef Tenderlion Roast
This Beef Tenderloin Roast is the easiest “fancy” meal to cook – just sear it in a hot pan, then cook in the oven for a few minutes with herb butter.
2. Prime Rib
Prime Rib has simple ingredients and easy-to-follow instructions that make this intimidating cut completely approachable. Pairs well with traditional Thanksgiving side dishes.
3. Rack of Lamb
This restaurant-worthy Rack of Lamb is seared in a pan, then roasted with smashed potatoes. It's impressive yet so easy to make.
4. Crab Legs
Crab Legs offer a luxurious seafood-focused turkey alternative that feels indulgent and special without hours of preparation. Serve with Twice-Baked Potatoes and Roasted Vegetables.
5. Rouladen
Rouladen is a classic German dish with thin beef slices rolled around bacon, onions, pickles, and mustard, then slowly braised in a rich gravy until tender. Serve with traditional Spätzle and Red Cabbage.
6. Baked Salmon
A beautifully Baked Salmon fillet makes Thanksgiving lighter and healthier without sacrificing elegance, and it cooks in under 30 minutes. (Or try our Cedar Plank Salmon)
7. Cioppino
This homemade Cioppino seafood stew features a rich tomato-based broth with fresh seafood. It's a beautiful dish for a special dinner that will easily impress guests.
8. Osso Buco (Braised Veal Shanks)
Osso Buco features tender braised veal shanks in a rich sauce, topped with fresh gremolata. It's a traditional Italian dish suitable for special occasions.
9. Braised Short Ribs
These Braised Short Ribs get more “WOW” comments than almost any other recipe, cooked in just one pot with carrots and fresh herbs.
10. Spanish Paella
You can make authentic Paella with simple ingredients like rice, saffron, vegetables, chicken, and seafood. It's a vibrant one-pan dish that feeds a crowd.
11. Pork Tenderloin
This Pork Tenderloin is one of the easiest fancy meals to cook, marinated in garlic, lemon, and rosemary, then seared and baked until tender and juicy in just 18-25 minutes. Pairs wonderfully with our Thanksgiving Stuffing and Sweet Potato Casserole.
12. Marinated Flank Steak
This Marinated Flank Steak has been a family favorite for decades, made with only 5 simple ingredients, including peach juice, and the flavor is the best.
13. Beef Birria
This popular Mexican Beef Birria features tender beef braised in chile peppers and seasonings, served as a stew or used to make birria tacos with consommé for dipping. Serve with Mexican Rice and Homemade Refried Beans.
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