If you’ve ever secretly mumbled, ‘Do we really have to do turkey again?’, you’re not alone. Plenty of people are rethinking the traditional bird. Maybe prices are up, the prep is stressful, the gathering is smaller this year, or they simply crave something different. Whatever your reason, swapping out the turkey doesn’t mean sacrificing the holiday vibe. In fact, it can make the whole day feel fresh again. Here are some great alternatives to turkey for Thanksgiving.
Showstopper Roasts That Aren’t Turkey
Let’s start with the heavy hitter: prime rib or a classic beef roast. If you’re aiming for a main meat that practically carves itself, this is it. Rich, flavorful, and undeniably festive, a well-seasoned roast feels like a celebration all on its own. (Plus, it frees you from wrestling with a 15-pound bird at 6 a.m.!)
Another fantastic option, especially if you still want something that feels “holiday”, is a glazed ham. Brown sugar, maple, pineapple, bourbon…you can get really creative with the glaze. And the best part? Ham is unbelievably forgiving. It reheats beautifully, stretches for a crowd, and makes leftovers you’ll actually want to eat.
But maybe you want something simpler. That’s where roast chicken or Cornish hens shine. Honestly, they’re lighter, juicier, and they cook in a fraction of the time. If you’re hosting just a couple of people, individual hens even make the meal feel a little special. It’s like built-in portion control with a side of elegance.
Seafood for a Lighter Fare
Now, if you want to really surprise your guests, consider going all-in on seafood. A whole roasted salmon makes a dramatic entrance—moist, flaky, and perfect with bright citrus or herb toppings. Or go rustic with a shrimp boil. You could even serve crab legs or a seafood paella if your crew loves bold flavors. Seafood keeps things light, which is especially nice when you know you’re about to annihilate pie later.
Vegetarian & Vegan Centerpieces
Of course, not everyone at the table eats meat or fish, and that’s where vegetarian and vegan mains come in. Think mushroom Wellington wrapped in golden puff pastry, or roasted acorn squash stuffed with wild rice and cranberries. These dishes don’t feel like afterthoughts because they’re still hearty, and impressive enough to anchor the whole meal.
Cozy One-Pan Casseroles
And here’s a curveball: pasta. Yes, pasta! A double layered lasagna or ooey gooey baked ziti are comforting, crowd-friendly mains are perfect for hosts who want to keep things simple without sacrificing flavor. Even a big pan of mac and cheese, loaded with mix-ins like bacon and topped with crispy breadcrumbs can become the talk of the table. If your gathering is more casual or you just want something everyone loves, pasta is a no-brainer.
No matter what you serve, you can still keep things feeling like Thanksgiving by pairing your main with classic sides. Stuffing, mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, and cranberry sauce, they’re the heart of the holiday, regardless of what’s taking center stage.
So how do you choose? Think about your guest list, your budget, and how much you actually want to cook. Pick something that excites you! After all, the best Thanksgiving meals come from a place of joy.