77 Delicious Non-Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes for a Unique Feast in 2024

Non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes provide a fun alternative to the traditional turkey, stuffing and sweet potato menu found in many homes over the holiday. Incorporating non-traditional Thanksgiving meat ideas and unique Thanksgiving recipes for sides is a great way to spice up your menu and keep your guests happy while giving thanks for everything you love and are happy about.

What are 4 other traditional Thanksgiving foods served by people of different nationalities? What is the least common Thanksgiving food, and why should I add it to my holiday table this year? We will answer these questions and others as we explore non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes that help you create a unique feast for family and friends during the holiday season. 

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• What Is a Good Alternative to Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner?
• Unique Thanksgiving Dishes
• Easy Non-Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes
• Non-Traditional Turkey Recipes
• Best Thanksgiving Main Dishes That Are Not Turkey

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What Is a Good Alternative to Traditional Thanksgiving Dinner?

1. Lamb Chops 

Lamb chops are a non-traditional Thanksgiving meat idea with bold flavors. Serve them with zesty mint pesto for a savory main course. While preparing this more adventurous option can seem challenging, there are bound to be cooking classes near you, including cooking classes in Ottawa, cooking classes in Vancouver or convenient online cooking classes that provide fantastic guidance by expert chefs. Signing up for a class will prepare you well for pulling off this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe.

 2. Butternut Squash Risotto

Creamy and aromatic butternut squash risotto is a comforting, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Its rich blend of roasted squash, Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs adds a seasonal twist to your meal. Serve this as a main dish, and you won’t miss the turkey. Butternut squash risotto also makes a lovely Thanksgiving potluck idea perfect for your Friendsgiving dinner party. 

3. Vegan Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Try stuffed portobello mushrooms for a plant-based, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe filled with flavor. Fill them with healthy quinoa, fresh spinach and sweet pine nuts. They are a hearty main course or Thanksgiving appetizer packed with flavors that even meat lovers will enjoy. Serving multiple appetizers is also a fun Friendsgiving food idea that encourages everyone to mingle. 

4. Sweet Potato Gnocchi

Pillowy sweet potato gnocchi in rich sage browned butter sauce is a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe with a comforting flavor. The gnocchi made from sweet potatoes offers a nod to the holiday’s favorite side dish and perfectly compliments many Thanksgiving salads and main courses. Adding the browned butter sauce makes the dish rich and elegant.

5. Peking Duck

What is the least common Thanksgiving food? It might be duck, but that doesn’t mean this unique Thanksgiving dinner idea is not worth considering. Bring international appeal to your holiday with Peking Duck, a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe with crispy skin and juicy meat.

Serve this unique Thanksgiving dish with hoisin sauce, scallions and pancakes, making it an exciting alternative to turkey and a fun way to incorporate Chinese cuisine into your holiday celebrations.

6. Prime Rib

For meat lovers, an herb-crusted prime rib is a hearty and indulgent non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. The meat's crispy, herb-infused crust and juicy interior create a luxurious centerpiece that accentuates your Thanksgiving table decor. 

This is one of the best Thanksgiving main dishes that are not turkey for anyone hosting an upscale event. While black tie is usually optional, you might require it if this is your main course! 

7. Moroccan Tagine 

A flavorful Moroccan tagine with lamb or vegetables could become your new holiday staple. It offers a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe with warming spices like cinnamon, cumin and ginger. Serve this unique Thanksgiving dish over couscous for a global-inspired holiday twist. It’s a fun idea for Thanksgiving dinner if you love Middle Eastern flavor and spice. 

8. Paella

For a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe inspired by the fresh tastes of the Mediterranean sea, paella is a delicious option. This vibrant dish features shrimp, mussels and saffron-infused rice, perfect for those seeking a lighter yet flavorful non-traditional Thanksgiving idea. At its heart, paella is a simple recipe, but plan to take your time when preparing it. Serving this communal dish is a fun idea for Thanksgiving dinner. 

9. Thai Curry

An aromatic Thai coconut curry with vegetables, tofu or chicken is a spicy and exotic non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. The creamy coconut milk combined with rich curry paste and tangy lime creates a refreshing contrast to typical holiday dishes. 

You can also spice the dish up if you choose. Serve this dish over a bed of basmati rice or your favorite Thai noodles. Your guests will rave about this alternative to the traditional or non-traditional turkey recipe.

10. Stuffed Squash 

Try roasted acorn squash stuffed with wild rice, tart cranberries and crunchy pecans for a seasonal, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. This colorful and flavorful dish makes a perfect vegetarian main dish or a satisfying side option. It is also an easy non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe for anyone new to vegetarian cooking. 

Unique Thanksgiving Dishes

11. Pumpkin Empanadas

What do other cultures eat for Thanksgiving? In Mexico, the dishes often focus on spending time with family and friends. Pumpkin empanadas are one example of a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that Mexicans enjoy. 

They are prepared in large batches, and the art of baking them centers on spending time with grandma. If you are hosting Thanksgiving and searching for culturally significant Thanksgiving food ideas, add this option to your list. They make fantastic leftovers, too!

12. Doro Wat

Doro Wat is a spicy chicken stew served with injera. While not your standard holiday meal, it is a flavorful, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. The dish is aromatic, providing an instant and inviting appeal. It is meant to be enjoyed communally. Doro Wat’s complex spices and shared dining experience make it memorable for any holiday meal.

13. Shrimp and Grits

This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe offers a fun Southern twist on traditional holiday fare. Shrimp and grits are a sweet, savory, creamy and meaty dish. Serve this as a unique Thanksgiving dinner idea for your main course, or offer it as a comforting, soul-food side dish your guests will love.  

14. Mezze Platter

A Middle Eastern mezze platter with hummus, falafel, baba ghanoush and pita bread provides a vibrant and flavorful non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe for your holiday guests’ dining experience. It is sized perfectly for sharing, so the platter is ideal for a Friendsgiving feast or as a hearty appetizer before your Thanksgiving main course meal.

15. Caribbean Callaloo 

Callaloo, a leafy green stew famous in the Caribbean, is a nutritious and delicious non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. It is often made with okra, coconut milk and citrus-enhanced spices for a comforting side dish that pairs well with turkey or any non-traditional main course.

16. Salmon 

Grilled salmon is a lighter, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe with lots of health value. For Japanese inspiration, add a miso glaze. This dish is meaty, tender, sweet and savory. The glaze perfectly accents the flaky fish for an elegant yet simple alternative to the traditional turkey and sweet potato dinner.

17. Stuffed Grape Leaves

Dolma, grape leaves stuffed with rice, herbs and sometimes meat like ground chicken or beef, is a tangy, aromatic, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. This dish brings Mediterranean flavors and an elegant presentation to your table and it will impress your guests as an appetizer or side dish to accompany your main course. 

18. Beef Stroganoff 

Served over egg noodles, Russian beef stroganoff is a a creamy beef dish and a comforting non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Its rich flavor profile makes it perfect for cold-weather celebrations near the end of autumn. You can serve beef stroganoff as a stand-alone dish with fresh bread or add it to your table as an interesting side dish for your Thanksgiving celebrations. 

19. Tamales

Tamales with savory pork, beef, chicken or vegetables offer a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe with a Mexican flair. Wrapped in corn husks, these flavorful, handheld parcels are ideal for making ahead and perfect for a festive meal where guests want to spend less time sitting still. This unique Thanksgiving recipe gives your table international appeal. 

20. Jerk Sweet Potatoes

Jerk sweet potatoes are a nontraditional Thanksgiving recipe that infuses traditional holiday flavors with a bold Caribbean twist. The spicy jerk seasoning combines allspice, thyme and scotch bonnet peppers, creating a vibrant contrast to the potatoes' natural sweetness.

Consider this dish if you are searching for a way to bring heat to your menu and prefer a less conventional sweet potato recipe. This is a non-traditional Thanksgiving idea worth trying. 

21. Butter Chicken

This creamy, mildly spiced Indian dish is a beloved comfort food and non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Since the spice level is mild, the dish has broad appeal. The dish can be made with tofu if you prefer to skip the chicken. Serve with basmati rice and fresh garlic naan for a global twist on the holiday meal and a truly unique Thanksgiving recipe. 

22. Korean BBQ Short Ribs 

Enjoy a bold, flavorful and non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe by preparing Korean BBQ short ribs. Marinated in a sweet soy-based sauce, these tender ribs are perfect with rice and kimchi. They also pair well with various vegetables or even a side of mashed potatoes. No utensils are required to serve this popular and tasty dish! 

23. Greek Spanakopita

Spanakopita, a spinach and feta-filled pastry, offers a rich and flavorful non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. This vegetarian option hails from Greece and features flaky phyllo dough and a creamy spinach filling. 

The mixture of creamy and flaky textures is inviting to the palate and something your guests will enjoy as a side dish or lighter main course. 

24. Sweet Potato Pie

Serve your guests sweet potato pie with a ginger crust for a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that offers a unique take on more traditional pies. The combination of flavors adds a zesty twist to the traditional pumpkin pie. Sweet potato pie is a delightful addition to the dessert table and pairs well with fresh whipped cream and warm coffee beverages. 

25. Pho

With its rich broth, noodles and tender meat, fragrant Vietnamese soup is a comforting non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Pho offers a light yet satisfying balance with layered flavors. You can serve this dish as a unique main course, a side dish or a filling appetizer when guests are expected to wait awhile before the main dish is served. 

26. Sauerbraten

Sauerbraten is a traditional German roast marinated in vinegar and spices for several hours. It is a tangy and tender non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Prepare your marinade the day before and let the meat sit overnight for extra flavor. Serve this German classic with potato dumplings and red cabbage for a hearty meal.

27. Argentinian Grilled Steaks

This one is for meat lovers. Try a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe from Argentina and prepare asado for your guests. This dish consists of perfectly grilled steak seasoned with chimichurri sauce, which brings bold, smoky flavors to the table. Whether you grill the steaks in the oven or on your blacktop, you are sure to create something unforgettable. 

28. Mojo Pork

Mojo pork is a flavorful and exciting alternative to turkey, ideal for families seeking a bold, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Marinated in a zesty blend of citrus juices, garlic, oregano and cumin, this Cuban-inspired roast pork offers tangy, savory flavors that pair well with holiday pumpkin and sweet potato sides. Slow-roasted to perfection, the pork is tender, juicy and deeply infused with inviting aromas. 

29. Ceviche

Lighten up your holiday meal with ceviche. It offers a refreshing twist as a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Create it using fresh seafood marinated in citrus juices, typically lime or lemon. Then, mix in cilantro, onions, tomatoes and spicy peppers. Serve the dish chilled to bring a bright contrast to the usual heavy holiday fare

30. Sweet Potato Tempura 

Lightly battered and fried, sweet potato tempura is a crispy, savory, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. This Japanese-inspired dish is best enjoyed with light, flavorful tentsuyu sauce for dipping. Served as an appetizer, it adds a unique international twist to the holiday meal.

Easy Non-Traditional Thanksgiving Recipes

31. Butternut Squash Soup

Warm your guests’ tummies with a smooth and creamy butternut squash soup. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe is easy to make ahead in an Instant Pot or your slow cooker. Serve small bowls as an appetizer or include the soup as a side dish to bring fall flavor to the table.

32. Sheet Pan Chicken and Vegetables 

Try sheet-pan chicken and vegetables for a simple, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe for smaller gatherings. This dish simplifies the holiday prep work by using a single sheet pan. Simply place chicken breasts and a mixture of your favorite vegetables on the pan and add seasoning before baking the dish. Cleanup is quick and easy, but the dish still delivers hearty flavors.

33. Charcuterie Board

This no-cook, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe is excellent for munching before the main course. Add your favorite meats, cheeses, crackers, olives, spreads and other finger foods to a decorative wooden board. Center the board on your appetizer table for presentation and ease of self-service dining. Everyone can grab what they would like and munch as they mingle.

34. Lemon Garlic Roasted Shrimp

Elevate your Thanksgiving with this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that is fresh from the sea. Add roasted shrimp flavored with lemon, garlic and herbs to your table. The dish pairs nicely with rice and citrus-enhanced vegetables. It’s a quick, elegant main dish and a refreshing change from the expected turkey dinner.

35. Garlic Parmesan Mashed Cauliflower

In this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe, swap butter-filled, high-calorie mashed potatoes for a low-carb, healthier alternative. Mashed cauliflower flavored with garlic and Parmesan is easy to make and delicious. 

It gives your guests the creamy consistency of mashed potatoes with added flavor from the garlic and cheese and a hint of extra texture. 

36. Balsamic Brussels 

Earthy roasted Brussels sprouts are tossed in a balsamic glaze for a sweet, savory, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. The crispy edges add texture, making them a perfect side dish for your traditional turkey or any unique Thanksgiving idea. This is an excellent alternative to the more traditional green bean casserole that ensures healthy greens are on your table.

37. Maple-Roasted Carrots

Roasting fresh carrots with maple syrup, rosemary and thyme creates a sweet and savory side dish. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe will feel familiar but give your guests a hint of added flavor. It also looks beautiful on any fall-themed table and adds vibrant orange hues and a pleasant aroma to your home. 

38. Turkey Tacos 

A variation on the taco to try as a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe is the turkey taco. This one is made with soft tortillas, but your filling will consist of shredded turkey instead of beef. Season them with your favorite taco meat spice or any herb blend. Top the tacos with lettuce, salsa and sour cream for a more traditional taco flavor or cranberry sauce and stuffing for a vibe that’s closer to the expected menu for the holiday. 

39. Puffed Pastry Bites 

As a simple appetizer or convenient side dish, consider preparing puffed pastries. To make this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe, wrap cranberry sauce and soft brie inside of store-bought or homemade puff pastry. The result is a delightful bite-sized treat. The bitterness of the cranberries compliments the creaminess of the brie, making this a popular choice for munching while mingling. 

40. Sausage and Apple Stuffing 

Enhance classic stuffing by adding fresh cubes of tart green apples and slices of smokey sausage. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe takes the flavor of a traditional favorite up a notch with a savory, sweet, yet tart flavor profile in an easy-to-prepare and bake dish. Serve it alongside baked ham. This will add an unexpected surprise to your more traditional Thanksgiving menu.  

41. Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Mac and cheese is a common Thanksgiving dish, but have you tried pumpkin mac and cheese? This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe meshes the unexpected sweet flavors of pumpkin puree with your favorite creamy, comforting mac and cheese dish. The flavor and texture elevate the classic dish and make this a delicious side item to set alongside your turkey and add a subtly sweet touch to your holiday table.

42. Sweet Potato and Black Bean Tacos 

Make tapa-sized tacos filled with cubed sweet potatoes and canned or fresh black beans for a fun and easy meal that is perfect as an appetizer or main course. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe combines roasted sweet potatoes and hearty black beans in soft tortillas, topped with avocado, fruit salsa and lime. These flavorful tacos offer a vibrant and casual option for the holiday.

43. Brocolli and Bacon Salad

This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe mixes fresh broccoli with crispy bacon, red onion and a tangy dressing for a hearty salad. The fragrant and colorful side is a satisfying dish that can be made ahead of time and served chilled or at room temperature, making it easy to set out on your table without worrying about how long your event will last.

44. Spicy Green Bean Stir Fry 

This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe is easy to make and offers a vibrant stir-fry variation for one of America’s favorite vegetables: green beans. Simply toss green beans with sliced bell peppers and your choice of protein in a spicy sauce. The result is a quick and flavorful dish that brings a kick to your holiday feast.

45. Pumpkin Stuffed Peppers 

In this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe, colorful bell peppers are stuffed with mashed or small-cubed pumpkin, rice, black beans and Caribbean spices. Bake the peppers until tender. This creates a unique and satisfying main dish for your vegan party guests.

Non-Traditional Turkey Recipes

46. Coffee-Rubbed Turkey

For a rich and bold flavor, try a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that uses a rub with ground coffee, paprika, cumin, garlic and onion for spice. Add the blend, and let your turkey rest for at least two hours to soak up the flavor. The deep, smoky flavors of the coffee create a delicious crust on the turkey.

47. Five-Spice Turkey

This nontraditional Thanksgiving recipe brings Asian flair to the table. Marinate the turkey in a fragrant blend of five-spice powder, soy sauce and ginger overnight to achieve the best flavor profile. The aromatic spices create a savory glaze and offer a unique, flavorful take on the traditional roasted turkey.

48. Bocadillos de Pavo

Spanish-style turkey sandwiches are sometimes served as a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe in Spanish homes. This dish is called bocadillos de pavo and features roasted turkey as the main ingredient, served on crusty baguettes. 

Garnish with traditional Spanish flavors like aioli (which many people believe is a mayonnaise, but as Mashed states is, in fact, a garlic and extra-virgin olive oil blend), peppers or manchego cheese for added flavor.

49. Bacon-Wrapped Turkey

Wrap your turkey in smokey bacon for a smoke-infused and indulgent twist on the Thanksgiving classic. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe adds crispy, savory layers of bacon that perfectly complement the tender turkey meat. This dish is visually impressive, and the bacon helps to insulate the turkey and trap the meat's moisture inside. 

50. Sriracha Honey Glazed Turkey

Add heavy heat to your Thanksgiving turkey with a sriracha honey glaze inspired by Thai foods. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe brings the perfect balance of sweet and spicy to your table, and it is ideal for guests who prefer a meal that packs a punch. You can customize the spice level by adjusting the amount of sriracha in the glaze. 

51. Apple Cider Brined Turkey

Brining a turkey adds moisture; when brined in apple cider it adds sweetness, too. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe is ideal for adding the fresh autumn flavors of apples and the acidity of cider to your favorite holiday meat. Your knife will cut beautifully into turkey, and your guests will love how well it pairs with sweet potatoes or glazed carrots. 

52. Jamaican Jerk Turkey 

Try jerk turkey, a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe for a fruity, spiced, Caribbean twist. Enjoy it seasoned with fiery spices like allspice, thyme and Scotch bonnet peppers. This bold, spicy, unique Thanksgiving idea can be paired with root vegetables and cooked on the grill for versatility. 

53. Honey Mustard Glazed Turkey 

Honey mustard glazed turkey balances sweetness and tang for a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. The honey and mustard combine to create a flavorful glaze that caramelizes beautifully during roasting, resulting in a visually stunning and deliciously sticky exterior and moist interior that appeals to guests of all ages.

54. Pineapple Soy-Glazed Turkey 

Pineapple soy-glazed turkey is a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that brings a delightful fusion of sweet and savory Asian flavors to the table. The glaze, made with pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey and ginger, creates a beautiful caramelized finish, infusing your bird with tangy sweetness and umami depth. This vibrant flavor profile enhances the natural richness of the turkey, creating a unique and memorable dish. 

55. Tandoori Turkey 

Tandoori turkey is a vibrant and flavorful non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that infuses your feast with Indian spices. Marinated in yogurt, cumin, coriander, paprika and garam masala, the turkey is packed with flavor. The tandoori cooking style imparts a stunning reddish hue and a slightly smoky flavor that elevates the dish.

56. Turkey Meatball Subs 

Turkey meatball subs are a casual, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe and an alternative to the more classic main course. Season your meatballs with herbs and spices and serve them on toasted rolls topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese. Turkey meatball subs are easy to prepare and an excellent option for laid-back gatherings or Thanksgiving football-watching parties.

57. Citrus and Sage Roasted Turkey 

Citrus and sage roasted turkey is a refreshing option for a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe, showcasing bright flavors. The zesty citrus fruits, such as oranges and lemons, infuse the turkey with moisture and a burst of acidity, perfectly complemented by the earthy notes of fresh sage. This combination elevates the turkey's flavor profile and offers a lighter alternative to decadent holiday dishes.

58. Herb-Crusted Turkey Breast 

Herb-crusted turkey breast is an exceptional choice for a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. Its savory and aromatic flavor profile is a result of the herbaceous crust, which is coated with fresh herbs, garlic and breadcrumbs. The dish has a crisp exterior that locks in moisture, enhancing the natural taste of the turkey and making each slice fresh and delicious. 

59. Pesto-Rubbed Turkey 

Fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan pesto rub added to turkey create a bright, herbaceous, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe. This unique, flavorful turkey is a lovely addition to your table and pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables, pasta sides and chilled white wine. 

60. Bocadillo de Pavo con Aceitunas y Pesto

Turkey meets Mediterranean flavors in this sandwich with olive tapenade, basil pesto and roasted turkey. The robust flavors of the olives and herbs elevate the turkey's simplicity in this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe, which features the holiday’s favorite bird in a new light.

61. Turducken

Try turducken if you want to keep the turkey, but do a bit more with it. This indulgent non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe will have you stuffing your turkey with duck and chicken, layered with flavorful stuffing. This multi-bird feast is an elevated, hearty and impressive centerpiece for any Thanksgiving table or meal.

62. Turkey Mole 

Inspired by the popular Mexican chicken dish, this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe features turkey simmered in a rich and flavorful mole sauce made with spicey chiles, decadent chocolate and fresh herbs. The deep, complex flavors offer a bold twist to your table and a unique variation from the traditional turkey feast. 

63. Buffalo Turkey Wings 

Swap out the whole bird for spicy Buffalo turkey wings and give your guests a real pop of flavor. In this non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe, you will coat the wings with Buffalo sauce and bake them until crispy. These wings add a fun, casual twist to your holiday spread. Guests will love munching on them while watching Turkey Day football! 

Best Thanksgiving Main Dishes That Are Not Turkey

64. Ratatouille 

Rustic French cuisine makes a beautiful addition to any holiday table, and ratatouille never disappoints. This non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe features seasonal vegetables, such as hearty eggplant, soft zucchini, savory bell peppers and vine-ripe tomatoes. 

The mixture is simmered with aromatic herbs. The result is a colorful and hearty ratatouille that bursts with flavor and showcases the natural sweetness of the vegetables.

65. Lasagna 

Try a nontraditional Thanksgiving recipe for lasagna as your main course for the holiday. Layer canned or fresh pumpkin puree with creamy ricotta, fresh spinach and thick noodles for a vibrant twist on classic meat or cheese lasagna. The fragrant, creamy dish is a hearty and flavorful vegetarian option that even meat eaters will enjoy.

66. Pierogi 

Pierogi are a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that adds a unique Polish twist to the holiday table. Traditionally filled with potatoes and cheese, these stuffed dumplings are comforting and filling. Pierogi can be boiled, sautéed, or baked, and they are often served with toppings like sour cream, caramelized onions, mushroom sauce or crispy bacon bits.

67. Honey Glazed Ham 

Skip the turkey with a non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe for honey-glazed ham. To save yourself some work, cook it in a slow cooker. The honey and spices create a sweet and savory glaze that requires minimal effort. Ham pairs well with many of your favorite traditional Thanksgiving sides, making it a lovely addition to or replacement for your Thanksgiving turkey. 

68. Grilled Fish 

Grilled fish is a straight-from-the-sea or river, non-traditional Thanksgiving recipe that brings a light and healthy option to the holiday table. Grilled fish's flakey texture contrasts with the heavier dishes typically associated with Thanksgiving. 

Marinated with citrus and spices or brushed with butter and thyme or rosemary, tilapia, sea bass or any local catch can be customized to suit many tastes and served with various side dishes.

69. Beef Wellington 

For the meat-eaters in your group, opt for a more traditional beef Wellington dish. This less conventional Thanksgiving recipe hails from the UK. It offers the same puff pastry as the mushroom variety but is filled with tender meat, mushrooms and paté.

70. Mushroom Wellington 

This vegetarian, less traditional Thanksgiving recipe features flaky puff pastry filled with savory mushrooms and a combination of garden-fresh herbs. It is a hearty and elegant option for meat-free dining that offers a beautiful presentation and a fragrance and taste your guests will love. Use portobello mushrooms in the dish, and the carnivores in your group might not even miss the meat! 

71. Lentil Loaf 

A filling and flavorful lentil loaf is a great plant-based, less conventional Thanksgiving recipe for your family. Packed with spices, vegetables and lentils, it is nutritious and has a great texture that will appeal to vegetarians and carnivores alike. 

There are many different ways to flavor your lentil loaf, making it easy to customize for those who prefer a higher spice, a more balanced flavor or something that lends toward the sweeter side. 

72. Cajun-Spiced Pork Tenderloin 

For an exciting but less conventional Thanksgiving recipe, try making a tenderloin. Rubbed with a blend of Cajun spices, including smoked paprika, spicey cayenne and pungent garlic powder, the tenderloin boasts a perfectly seared crust and a juicy interior packed with flavor. The vibrant seasoning elevates the taste and adds a vibrant color to the dish.

73. Baked Ziti

This Italian dish is a universally popular and less conventional Thanksgiving recipe. Enjoy it for your main course if your family loves pasta. It features layers of pasta, melted cheese and rich tomato sauce. For the non-vegetarian bunch, you can also add seasoned ground beef. Baked ziti is hearty, flavorful and perfect for a family-style meal.

74. Vegetarian Galette 

This less conventional Thanksgiving recipe showcases seasonal produce in a rustic form. A vegetarian galette is a free-form pastry filled with vibrant vegetables, such as roasted butternut squash, sautéed greens and caramelized onions, all seasoned with fresh herbs and a little cheese for creaminess. As a bonus, the dish is visually stunning and a lovely centerpiece for your table. 

75. Beans and Rice

Cuban-style beans and seasoned rice, commonly known as "congri," are a tasty and internationally-inspired Thanksgiving recipe option for your table. This simple-to-prepare dish is ideal if you are searching for a budget-friendly meal for your family. 

It is healthy compared to many traditional holiday dishes and spreads. Its versatility makes it a great main course, adding a rich and hearty element. You can also serve it as a side along with many of the more popular turkey dishes. 

76. Spiced Roasted Tofu

For a satisfying, flavorful alternative to turkey, choose spiced roasted tofu as your less conventional Thanksgiving recipe. Marinated in aromatic spices such as cumin, paprika and garlic, the tofu is then roasted in the oven, resulting in a crispy exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. For added crispiness, dry and press the tofu before marinating it. This dish provides a hearty vegan option and beautifully complements traditional holiday sides. 

77. Pulled Pork 

Pulled pork is a crowd-pleasing, enticing, less conventional Thanksgiving recipe that offers a delicious departure from the customary turkey. Slow-cooked until tender, this dish is infused with a savory blend of spices and smoky flavors, often enhanced by a tangy barbecue sauce. Served on soft buns, pulled pork is easy to serve and clean up and is universally appealing.

Incorporating non-traditional Thanksgiving recipes into your holiday feast is a great way to celebrate the season with unique, vibrant flavors. Whether drawing inspiration from international cuisines or modifying classic dishes, these exceptional recipes can make your gathering memorable and reflective of your tastes.

So, try a new international recipe, take a cooking class or simply step outside your comfort zone this Thanksgiving. By doing so, you will surprise your family and friends with a distinctive and delicious menu filled with some of your new favorite dishes! 

For even more fun ideas for Thanksgiving, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!