Thinking about skipping the turkey this 15 Thanksgiving Mains Dishes Not Turkey? You’re not alone. While tradition is wonderful, sometimes a change can make the holiday meal even more memorable. I remember one year we swapped the bird for a beef roast, and it became an instant family favorite. If you’re ready to break from tradition or simply want to try something new, you’ve come to the right place. Here are 15 delicious main course ideas that will have everyone at your table asking for seconds.
1. Authentic Italian Manicotti
Go for a taste of Italy with this comforting classic. Tender pasta tubes are filled with a rich, creamy cheese mixture, then baked in a savory tomato sauce until bubbly. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that brings a warm, family-style feel to your feast.
2. Dutch Oven Pork Roast with Root Vegetables
Imagine a succulent pork roast, slow-cooked to perfection alongside sweet carrots, potatoes, and onions. This one-pot wonder is not only easy to prepare but also fills your home with an incredible aroma, promising a rustic and deeply flavorful main course.
3. Baked Ham with a Cherry Glaze
A holiday classic for a reason, a baked ham is both impressive and delicious. A sweet and tangy cherry glaze caramelizes over the savory ham as it bakes, creating a beautiful centerpiece with a perfect balance of flavors that guests will love.
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4. Baked Trout with Lemon and Honey Soy Sauce
For a lighter but equally elegant option, consider oven-baked trout. This delicate fish is enhanced with a simple yet flavorful sauce of lemon, honey, and soy. It bakes quickly, making it a stress-free choice that feels sophisticated and fresh.
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5. Baked Cod in Foil with Chimichurri
Seal in flavor and moisture by baking cod in a foil packet with vibrant vegetables. Topped with a zesty chimichurri sauce made of fresh herbs, garlic, and vinegar, this dish is bright, healthy, and incredibly easy to clean up after.
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6. Savory Pork Sirloin Roast
A pork sirloin roast is a fantastic and budget-friendly alternative that delivers on taste. Seasoned well and roasted until tender and juicy, it provides a wonderful canvas for your favorite Thanksgiving side dishes. It’s simple, elegant, and reliably delicious.
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7. Creamy Tuna & Sun-Dried Tomato Casserole
Reinvent the casserole with this elevated tuna bake. Flaky tuna and rich sun-dried tomatoes are mixed into a creamy sauce and tossed with pasta, then baked until golden. It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that feels both nostalgic and new.
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8. Mahi-Mahi with Lemon Garlic Sauce
Bring a touch of the coast to your Thanksgiving table. Tender mahi-mahi fillets are pan-seared and drizzled with a bright lemon-garlic butter sauce. This quick and easy recipe results in a flaky, flavorful fish that pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables.
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9. Grilled Chuck Roast with Garlic & Onion Rub
Take the cooking outside with a grilled chuck roast. A simple dry rub of garlic and onion powder creates a savory crust while the grill imparts a smoky flavor. This method transforms a humble cut into a tender, mouthwatering main event.
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10. Easy Baked Ranch Chicken
Who can resist the savory flavor of ranch? Chicken pieces are coated in a zesty ranch seasoning and baked until golden and crispy. This dish is a crowd-pleaser for all ages and is incredibly simple to prepare, freeing you up for other tasks.
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11. Grilled Stuffed Pork Tenderloin
Impress your guests with a pork tenderloin stuffed with a sweet and savory caramelized onion filling. Grilling adds a smoky dimension that complements the rich filling, creating a juicy, restaurant-quality main course that looks as good as it tastes.
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12. Pork Tenderloin with Maple Mustard Sauce
Embrace the flavors of autumn with this elegant pork tenderloin. The lean meat is roasted to juicy perfection and finished with a delectable sauce combining the sweetness of maple syrup with the tang of mustard. It’s a sophisticated and festive dish.
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13. Ritz Cracker Chicken Casserole
For ultimate comfort food, this casserole is a winner. Tender chicken and a creamy sauce are topped with a buttery, crunchy layer of crushed Ritz crackers. It’s a simple, beloved dish that brings a cozy and satisfying element to your holiday meal.
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14. Grilled New York Strip Roast with Garlic Herb Crust
Treat your guests to a show-stopping New York strip roast. A fragrant crust of garlic and herbs encases the beef as it cooks on the grill, resulting in a perfectly medium-rare, tender roast that is bursting with robust flavor.
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15. Moroccan-Inspired Jewish Braised Brisket
Take your brisket to the next level with warm Moroccan spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Braised slowly until it is fall-apart tender, this dish is rich, aromatic, and deeply comforting—a truly special centerpiece for your holiday table.
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This year, feel free to step outside the box and create new traditions. Whatever you choose to serve, the most important part of Thanksgiving is gathering with loved ones and sharing a wonderful meal together. Happy cooking
