The Ultimate Guide to 60+ Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Recipes for a Delicious Holiday Feast
Whether you’re planning an elaborate holiday gathering for many cherished guests or simply bringing a cherished dish to Thanksgiving this year, offering a delicious gluten-free option is essential for an inclusive and enjoyable meal. This comprehensive collection of over 60 tried-and-true Gluten-Free Thanksgiving recipes provides an abundance of mouth-watering choices for every single course, ensuring your holiday table is both spectacular and accommodating.
Having embraced a gluten-free lifestyle for nearly five years, preparing delicious gluten-free meals has become second nature in our kitchen. From everyday dinners to the most anticipated holiday feasts, our table is consistently adorned with dishes free from gluten. You might imagine that this makes hosting holidays a challenge, but in reality, it’s quite the opposite.
My secret? I serve everyone the exact same dishes – all completely gluten-free, crafted with clean, whole-food ingredients. The best part? No one ever notices the difference! This proves that gluten-free cooking can be incredibly flavorful, satisfying, and utterly delicious.
If you’re new to gluten-free cooking, or if you’re hosting guests with dietary restrictions this Thanksgiving, the thought of preparing a safe and enjoyable meal can seem daunting. Likewise, if you yourself are gluten-free and want to contribute a dish that will be loved by all, deciding what to make can be tough.
To ease your holiday stress, I’ve curated a collection of my absolute favorite, mouth-watering gluten-free Thanksgiving recipes. This roundup features beloved recipes from my own kitchen, alongside fantastic contributions from other incredible food bloggers. With this extensive list, covering everything from gluten-free appetizers and refreshing salads to comforting soups, savory stuffing, fluffy biscuits, rich sauces, essential sides, and irresistible desserts, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect dishes to make your Thanksgiving celebration truly unforgettable and deliciously gluten-free!
* Asterisk denotes recipes that are also Dairy-Free (or can be easily adapted to be DF by omitting an optional ingredient or topping, making them perfect for a dairy-free Thanksgiving).
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Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Side Dish Recipes
Let’s kick off your Thanksgiving menu planning with the true stars of the feast – the side dishes! These gluten-free side recipes are not just safe for those with dietary needs, they are tried-and-true crowd-pleasers guaranteed to be loved by everyone at your holiday table, whether they eat gluten or not.
Healthy Sweet Potato Casserole * – This innovative casserole blends the sweetness of sweet potatoes with the earthiness of butternut squash, all crowned with a delectable pecan streusel. It’s a healthier, gluten-free twist on a classic that your guests will adore, never suspecting it’s a lighter alternative!
Instant Pot Mashed Potatoes * – Prepare to be amazed! If you’re not making your mashed potatoes in an Instant Pot, you’re missing out. This is hands down the easiest and best way to achieve perfectly creamy, fluffy, and no-drain mashed potatoes, freeing up valuable stove-top space.
Healthy Green Bean Casserole (Gluten Free) – Say goodbye to canned ingredients! This wholesome green bean casserole is made from scratch with fresh green beans, a rich homemade mushroom Alfredo sauce, and crispy, gluten-free fried onions. It’s a healthier, incredibly flavorful update to a holiday favorite.
Instant Pot Scalloped Potatoes Au Gratin – Free up your oven this Thanksgiving! These luxurious scalloped potatoes au gratin cook remarkably fast in the Instant Pot, offering a significant time-saving solution without compromising on flavor or creamy texture. It’s a truly indulgent gluten-free side.
Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts – Make room in your oven for the turkey! These unbelievably crispy Air Fryer Brussels Sprouts, drizzled with hot honey, are a game-changer. They’re quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making them a perfect gluten-free side.
Crispy Shaved Brussels Sprouts with Bacon, Parmesan, and Balsamic – Transform Brussels sprouts into a definite crowd-pleaser this Thanksgiving! Roasting a pan of these crispy, savory sprouts with bacon, Parmesan, and a balsamic glaze will convert even the pickiest eaters.
Balsamic Brussels Sprouts | Slender Kitchen – These crispy Brussels sprouts are bursting with flavor and perfectly cooked using just a few simple pantry ingredients. A healthy and delicious gluten-free addition to your holiday spread.
Instant Pot Loaded Cauliflower Mash – Imagine a loaded baked potato, but with the healthy goodness of cauliflower mash! This clever gluten-free side is so rich and flavorful, you can easily pass it off as traditional mashed potatoes, making it a perfect low-carb option.
Instant Pot Mac and Cheese (Sneaky Veggie Version) – Mac and Cheese for Thanksgiving? Absolutely! This gluten-free, sneaky-veggie version is incredibly creamy and cheesy. Your guests will savor every bite and never know it’s packed with hidden vegetables and entirely gluten-free.
Butternut Squash Mac and Cheese – This dish is loaded with hidden vegetable power yet delivers such a creamy, cheesy, and utterly delicious experience that no one would guess it’s healthy! Thanks to the Instant Pot, it comes together quickly, with stovetop directions also provided for your convenience.
Butternut Squash Risotto – This dish screams “special occasion,” but it’s remarkably the easiest risotto recipe you’ll ever make! Its creamy texture and rich butternut squash flavor make it an elegant and effortless gluten-free side for your Thanksgiving spread.
Sautéed Green Beans with Apple Cider * | Joy Food Sunshine – These fresh and flavorful sautéed green beans, infused with the subtle tang of apple cider, offer a vibrant and light contrast to richer holiday dishes. They are a fantastic gluten-free side for your Thanksgiving table.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes with Goat Cheese & Sage | The Foodie and The Fix – Simple, elegant, and incredibly delicious! Discover the magic of topping roasted sweet potatoes with creamy goat cheese and aromatic sage. This gluten-free side is an unexpected delight that will quickly become a holiday staple.
Garlic Bacon Sautéed Green Beans with Roasted Mushrooms | Good Life Eats – This side dish offers a fresh, vibrant, and flavor-packed alternative to traditional green bean casserole. Loaded with savory garlic, crispy bacon, and earthy roasted mushrooms, it’s a guaranteed hit and a perfect gluten-free addition to your holiday menu.
Cauliflower Au Gratin – Enjoy your favorite cheesy au gratin dish with a low-carb, veggie-packed twist! By using gluten-free flour and panko breadcrumbs, you can create a creamy, decadent Cauliflower Au Gratin that’s both healthy and utterly satisfying.
Delicata Squash Fries * – Make the most of your air fryer this holiday season! Delicata squash requires no peeling and is incredibly easy to cut, making these sweet and savory fries a quick-prep, delicious, and gluten-free side. It’s a win-win for flavor and convenience!
Roasted Bacon Sweet Potatoes * | Natural Paleo Family – These hearty, sweet-and-savory roasted bacon sweet potatoes are an impressive and delicious gluten-free side dish perfect for any holiday meal. They’re sure to delight your guests with their comforting flavors.
Garlic and Parsley Roasted Carrots * | Hungry Healthy Happy – A wonderfully sweet and savory gluten-free side dish that’s incredibly easy to prepare. Simply toss them in the oven and let them roast to perfection while you focus on other meal preparations. Bursting with garlic and fresh herbs, they’re exactly what a good side dish should be.
Easy Duchess Potatoes * | The Petite Cook – You’ll be surprised how simple it is to make these elegant Duchess Potatoes! This 3-ingredient recipe is naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, offering a fancy and impressive side that will elevate your Thanksgiving feast without the fuss.
Gluten-Free Stuffing Recipes + Gluten-Free Bread Recipes
A Thanksgiving celebration simply isn’t complete without flavorful stuffing or dressing. The fantastic news is that making stuffing gluten-free is incredibly easy, and the results are just as delicious – even my gluten-eating husband raves about my gluten-free stuffing recipe!
Gluten-Free Stuffing with Sausage + Apple – This incredible gluten-free stuffing, featuring savory sausage and sweet apples, is made with homemade bread cubes that truly mimic the flavor and texture of classic herbed stuffing mixes. It’s the quintessential side dish for Thanksgiving or any time you crave delicious, homemade stuffing.
Instant Pot Stuffing with Brown Rice and Sausage * – This non-traditional stuffing, made with wholesome brown rice and sweet poultry sausage, is absolutely delicious! The best part? It cooks entirely in your Instant Pot and can stay warm there, freeing up precious oven space for other holiday dishes.
Butternut Squash and Kale Quinoa Stuffing * | Good Life Eats – A truly fantastic vegetarian and gluten-free stuffing recipe! This vibrant dish is packed with an abundance of flavorful veggies, including butternut squash and kale, making it a healthy and delicious addition to your Thanksgiving table.
Paleo Sweet Potato Sausage Stuffing * | Tasting Page – This healthy Paleo sweet potato sausage stuffing is a perfect grain-free, gluten-free, dairy-free, and sugar-free accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey or any dinner. It’s packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients.
Homemade Gluten and Dairy-Free Stuffing * | The Fit Cookie – This versatile stuffing recipe goes beyond just gluten and dairy-free; it’s also nut-free and free of the top 8 allergens, ensuring it’s a safe and delicious option for nearly everyone at your holiday gathering.
Almond Flour Drop Biscuits | Apples for CJ – These easy almond flour biscuits come together in a single bowl in just twenty minutes, requiring no rolling, kneading, or cutting. These foolproof drop biscuits are perfect as a gluten-free Thanksgiving side or served with pumpkin butter for a delightful autumn treat.
Gluten-Free Salads and Soups for Thanksgiving
Elevate your Thanksgiving meal with a fresh and flavorful start! Incorporating a vibrant gluten-free soup or a crisp salad can offer a unique and refreshing twist to your traditional holiday menu, balancing the richness of the main courses.
Maple Cider Holiday Salad * – This almost slaw-like salad is made with hearty greens and features my absolute favorite maple cider vinaigrette. It offers incredible potential for customized toppings, allowing guests to create their perfect bite and enjoy a fresh, gluten-free starter.
Warm Honey Roasted Butternut Squash Salad – This inviting warm salad is so hearty and flavorful, it could easily serve double duty as a unique side dish for your Thanksgiving spread. The harmonious combination of tender butternut squash, tart cranberries, and creamy goat cheese creates an amazing culinary experience.
Harvest Salad Bites with Honey Goat Cheese – Have you ever tried Belgian endive? It provides the perfect crisp base for these healthy, low-carb, one-bite appetizers, which boast truly amazing flavors. These harvest bites are highly recommended for an elegant and easy gluten-free starter.
Pear and Butternut Squash Salad | The Foodie and The Fix – This robust salad combines hearty spinach, sweet roasted butternut squash, juicy pears, crunchy pecans, and tangy goat cheese, all dressed in an amazing Maple Balsamic Vinaigrette. Prepare the butternut squash ahead of time for even easier assembly on Thanksgiving day!
Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Appetizers
While I generally advocate for fewer appetizers on Thanksgiving to save room for the main event, I still love to offer a selection of delicious gluten-free nibbles before the grand meal. These gluten-free Thanksgiving appetizers are beloved favorites that are sure to impress without overfilling your guests.
Instant Pot Baked Brie – This show-stopping appetizer is incredibly simple to prepare, making it easy to “wow” your guests with minimal effort. Plus, you can serve it directly in the dish it was made in – a host’s dream for fewer dishes to clean!
Instant Pot Deviled Eggs with Bacon, Cheddar, and Chives – Amp up your deviled eggs for special events with this loaded version! If you haven’t made hard-boiled eggs in your Instant Pot yet, you’re in for a treat – it’s the easiest way to perfectly cooked eggs for these savory, gluten-free bites.
Cranberry Holiday Salsa * – A festive and delicious gluten-free appetizer that can be served with tortilla chips or, my personal favorite, over creamy goat cheese with gluten-free crackers. Its vibrant colors and flavors make it a perfect holiday starter.
Honey Roasted Feta Dip – With just four ingredients and super quick to prepare, this sweet and savory dip is a must-try! Serve it with your favorite gluten-free crackers, or with crisp apple and pear slices for a delightful, light appetizer.
Quinoa Stuffed Delicata Squash Rings * | Rhubarbarians – These elegant delicata squash rings are generously stuffed with a savory mixture of mushrooms, cranberries, Brussels sprouts, and pecans. Vegan, gluten-free, and paleo, they are truly drool-worthy and impressive!
Roasted Shrimp Cocktail with Cranberry Horseradish Chutney * – This isn’t your average shrimp cocktail! The shrimp are roasted (mind-blowing, right?), and served with a homemade cranberry horseradish chutney for an incredible burst of unique holiday flavor. It’s a gluten-free appetizer that truly stands out.
Carrot Ginger Soup – This gorgeously vibrant and festive soup makes a perfect first course for your Thanksgiving dinner. Its warming spices and smooth texture are both comforting and elegant, a wonderful gluten-free and vegan option.
Butternut Squash Soup * – This creamy, dairy-free, and gluten-free butternut squash soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser! Its versatility shines as it can be prepared in the Instant Pot, slow cooker, or on the stovetop, adapting perfectly to your holiday hosting needs.
Essential Sauces
No Thanksgiving feast is complete without the perfect accompanying sauces! While homemade cranberry sauce is a traditional must-have, consider adding delightful applesauce or rich pumpkin butter for even more festive flavor options.
Instant Pot Cranberry Sauce with Orange – This naturally sweetened cranberry sauce, made with maple syrup and fresh orange juice, comes together incredibly quickly and easily thanks to the Instant Pot. It’s the perfect vibrant, gluten-free accompaniment to your Thanksgiving turkey!
Instant Pot Applesauce – Ready in mere minutes, with a no-peel option, and absolutely no added sugar – what more could you ask for in a homemade applesauce? This simple, wholesome, gluten-free sauce is a versatile addition to your holiday table.
Low Carb Pumpkin Butter * | Country Girl Cookin – This exquisite low-carb pumpkin butter makes a beautiful, sugar-free topping for bread, yogurt, or even ice cream and oatmeal. Imagine it spread generously on those almond flour biscuits for a truly autumnal gluten-free treat!
Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Turkey Recipes
Creating a perfectly cooked gluten-free turkey with rich, flavorful gravy for Thanksgiving doesn’t have to be a source of stress. Over the years, I’ve perfected the art, and you can too! Simply follow one of these tried-and-true recipes, and you’ll be well on your way to serving the most delicious and worry-free holiday bird.
Easy Oven Roasted Turkey with Gravy – Making a show-stopping homemade Oven Roasted Turkey with perfectly paired gluten-free gravy for Thanksgiving is simpler than you might imagine! Just follow my straightforward tips for achieving the Best Thanksgiving Turkey Ever, including an optional dry brine that is incredibly easy to execute for an exceptionally juicy bird.
Honey Brined Turkey * | Food.Com – This recipe utilizes a wet brine method, resulting in an exceptionally juicy and delicious turkey every single time. It’s a fantastic gluten-free option for a moist and flavorful holiday centerpiece.
Easy Turkey Brine | Girl with the Iron Cast – Another fantastic gluten-free brined turkey recipe designed to ensure juicy meat and wonderfully crispy skin. This easy turkey brine recipe will have your guests clamoring for it year after year, guaranteeing a memorable holiday meal.
Instant Pot Turkey Breast and Potatoes – This is the ultimate quickest way to achieve a juicy, perfectly cooked turkey breast and delicious homemade gravy. Depending on the size of your turkey breast, you can even prepare mashed potatoes right in the same pot, offering unparalleled convenience and a complete gluten-free meal solution!
Whole Smoked Turkey * | Greedy Gourmet – Have you ever considered smoking a whole turkey for Thanksgiving? Not only does a smoked turkey look absolutely stunning as a centerpiece, but its unique flavor profile will undoubtedly be a delightful surprise for everyone at your table, creating a truly unforgettable gluten-free feast.
Grandma’s Roasted Turkey | Sweetpea Lifestyle – Dry-brined overnight, this turkey is lovingly stuffed with fragrant sage and lemons, then roasted until it achieves golden-brown perfection. This gluten-free recipe evokes classic flavors and ensures a moist, tender, and incredibly flavorful holiday bird.
Gluten-Free Thanksgiving Desserts
No Thanksgiving feast is truly complete without an array of delectable desserts, and these gluten-free options, like classic pumpkin pie and comforting apple crisp, are absolute must-haves! Prepare to satisfy every sweet tooth with these incredible, dietary-friendly treats.
Healthy Pumpkin Pie * – This amazing gluten-free, dairy-free, and refined sugar-free pumpkin pie truly tastes incredible! Made with a delicate almond flour crust and wholesome filling, we definitely don’t skip the luxurious homemade coconut whipped cream for the perfect guilt-free indulgence.
Mini Pumpkin Cheesecake Bites – These delightful gluten-free mini cheesecakes offer the best of both worlds, tasting like a heavenly cross between a classic cheesecake dessert and a festive pumpkin pie. They are the perfect individual-sized treat for your holiday dessert table.
Healthy Instant Pot Brown Rice Pudding * – This healthy Instant Pot brown rice pudding captures all the comforting flavors of the creamy rice pudding you grew up loving, but with a modern twist: it’s dairy-free, gluten-free, and refined-sugar-free. A perfect wholesome and delicious dessert!
Healthy Pumpkin Oatmeal Banana Bread * – A perfect make-ahead gluten-free and dairy-free banana bread with a delightful autumn twist. It also travels wonderfully, making it ideal for guests who might not have room for dessert but would love a treat to-go!
Swedish Apple Pie * | Texanerin Baking – This unique Swedish apple pie, similar to a crisp, is naturally gluten-free, vegan, dairy-free, and made with 100% whole grains! It’s an incredibly wholesome and delicious dessert that’s perfect for a healthy Thanksgiving spread. Yum!
Instant Pot Apple Crisp * – I absolutely love using my Instant Pot for making apple crisp! This recipe cleverly incorporates shortcuts to significantly reduce prep time, which is incredibly helpful when you’re busy hosting Thanksgiving. Enjoy a warm, comforting, gluten-free dessert with ease.
Pumpkin Bread | The Gluten-Free Option – This moist and flavorful gluten-free pumpkin bread, bursting with all the warm spices of fall, will disappear rapidly from your dessert table! Make sure to grab your slice before it’s gone – it’s a delightful and easy holiday bake.
Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Macaroons – Chocolate and pumpkin are a match made in heaven, and these macaroons prove it! Try these unique, gluten-free delights for a little something different on your dessert table that’s both festive and delicious.
Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies – No holiday dessert tray is truly complete without the timeless appeal of chocolate chip cookies! These fantastic gluten-free chocolate chip cookies taste and look just like the beloved traditional recipe, ensuring everyone can enjoy this classic treat.
Pumpkin Spice Whipped Ricotta – Packed with protein and overflowing with delightful fall flavors, this light yet satisfying dessert is a wonderful gluten-free treat! I love serving it with crisp apple slices for a refreshing and healthy end to your holiday meal.
Gluten-Free Apple Tart – Enjoy all the comforting flavors of apple pie, but without all the fuss! Using just a regular baking sheet, you’ll be able to whip up this elegant and easy gluten-free apple tart with minimal effort, making it a perfect holiday dessert.
Pumpkin Pie Hummus * – Have you jumped on the dessert hummus bandwagon yet? You absolutely need to try this incredible pumpkin version and promptly serve it to your Thanksgiving guests! You won’t regret introducing them to this surprisingly delicious and healthy gluten-free treat.
Chocolate Pumpkin Cups * – If you offered to bring dessert to the Thanksgiving meal, bring these and you will instantly become everyone’s favorite guest! Have I mentioned that the combination of chocolate and pumpkin is absolutely divine? These gluten-free cups are a true delight.
Baked Apples * – A delightful dessert on the lighter side, these baked apples are filled with fiber and warm spices. This option is sure to bring a welcome variety to your dessert table, offering a healthy and comforting gluten-free choice for your guests.
BONUS Thanksgiving Tips!
Don’t let any part of your delicious Thanksgiving bird go to waste! Here’s a fantastic bonus tip to make the most of your holiday leftovers.
Homemade Turkey Stock in a Crock Pot * – Put that leftover turkey carcass to incredible use! Making homemade turkey stock in your slow cooker is effortless and yields a rich, flavorful broth perfect for soups, gravies, and future meals. It’s a wonderful, gluten-free way to extend the flavors of Thanksgiving.
We hope this ultimate roundup inspires you to create a Thanksgiving feast that is not only entirely gluten-free but also bursting with flavor and joy for every guest. From appetizers to desserts, hosting a delicious and inclusive holiday meal has never been easier or more rewarding. Happy Thanksgiving and happy cooking!