Forget The Turkey, Serve These Mains Instead
Just because turkey is always associated with Thanksgiving doesn't mean you have to throw it on the table every year. If you're wanting something else, don't be ashamed! There are a variety of other unique mains you can serve up this year - here are 20 great examples!
1. Beef Wellington
Challenge yourself this Thanksgiving by serving up some delicious Beef Wellington that even Gordon Ramsay would be happy to eat. Though it is a complicated dish to master, with a bit of hard work, we know you can nail it. And just imagine the shocked faces of all your dinner guests as they get served this masterpiece!
2. Steak
Who would ever complain about getting served steak for Thanksgiving? For those of you looking for a luxurious alternative, it doesn't get better than a nicely cooked piece of steak. Even cheaper cuts, when cooked and seasoned perfectly, can taste like a million bucks.
3. Rack of Lamb
Lamb might be a finnicky meat to cook correctly, but if you do it right, you'll definitely have a show-stopping entrée that'll have everyone's jaw on the floor. Not only are the visuals amazing, but it's a sophisticated kind of meat that'll be a nice change up from the usual roast turkey.
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4. Cornish Hens
Instead of serving up one gigantic turkey, how about giving guests their own small, personal Cornish hen? Tasting similar to chicken but perhaps a bit milder in taste, these are great if you want individual portions. It also just creates the most hearty and filling looking plate.
Davey boy at English Wikipedia on Wikimedia
5. Lasagna
Who ever said meat always has to be at the center of a feast? Thanksgiving is all about creating the most heartwarming atmosphere, so why not serve up something that embodies that? Lasagna is a hearty and comforting dish that many people feel fondly towards. Sounds like a great main, don't you think?
6. Lobster
Not everyone prefers meat over seafood, and if that sounds like you, we know you'd be head over heels to have lobster for Thanksgiving. These expensive crustaceans are a rare eat for many, making them a delicious treat that's perfect for this day of giving. You can have them plain with some melted butter or dressed up in a tasty sauce that fits your fancy.
7. Salmon
We'd argue that a perfectly cooked piece of salmon that's unbelievably tender is just as good as a bite of steak. Whether you agree or disagree with that statement, it's safe to say you wouldn't be disappointed regardless if you were given salmon as your main. When it's got a crispy top and a flaky inside, it's so darn good.
8. Surf & Turf
And if you can't decide between meat and seafood, why not do a bit of both? Surf & turf is the best way to please both sides, giving you the best of both worlds. Pair it up however you like, whether it's lobster and steak, shrimp and pork, or whatever!
9. Sushi Platter
Is anything more visually pleasing than a brightly colored sushi platter? It just looks so fresh you want to dive right in! Switch things up this year and go with a unique sushi alternative that is sure to please a variety of taste buds. Make sure you include different rolls and sashimi so everyone can find something they love.
10. Peking Duck
Take a more international approach this year by wowing your dinner guests with some Peking duck. With its iconic crispy thin skin that pairs wonderfully with its juicy meat, this is one main that'll be devoured in minutes. It's incredibly flavorful, making it a new addition to your Thanksgiving meal that people will want year after year.
11. Cauliflower Steaks
Don't worry vegetarians, we haven't forgotten about you. If you can't eat meat, don't worry, there are plenty of delicious mains you can still serve up. Cauliflower steaks are the perfect example of an underrated dish that anyone would enjoy. The texture and flavor are incredible and we're sure even the biggest of meat lovers would eat this up.
12. Chicken Roulade
Chicken roulade isn't just tasty, it's visually appealing to look at too! If presentation matters a lot to you during this important meal, definitely consider this dish. If you stuff it with colorful ingredients, it'll make the whole thing pop. Don't get too caught up on the visuals though - make sure you cook it properly so it stays juicy and tender!
13. Chicken Parm
Sometimes the most memorable dishes are the comforting ones that remind us of family and home. So why not whip up something that people will remember years later? Chicken parm is definitely a nostalgic dish that brings forth fond memories. Serve it at Thanksgiving and give your guests all the feels!
14. Stuffed Peppers
With their lovely bright and vibrant colors, stuffed peppers make for a wonderful main. You can fill them with a variety of ingredients, from proteins to cheese and other veggies, making it an easily customizable dish that'll help you please all your guests.
15. Pork Char Siu
Sweet, salty, and so satisfying to bite into, pick an unconventional meat by going with pork char siu for your Thanksgiving meal. This popular Cantonese-style barbecued pork is different from what you'd expect of barbecue in America, but definitely just as tasty in its own way.
16. Galbi Short Ribs
If you love a good marinated piece of meat, Korean-style galbi short ribs are the way to go. These fall off the bone, tender, and juicy cuts of meat are flavored with this sweet and savory sauce that'll have you licking your fingers.
17. Ribs
Why not just embrace America this Thanksgiving by serving up some classic ribs that'll taste better than any roast turkey? Don't be afraid to get your hands dirty by digging right in and grabbing the juiciest, sauciest piece there is.
Alexandru-Bogdan Ghita on Unsplash
18. Prime Rib Roast
It's time to put your cooking skills to the test by whipping up the most delicious prime rib roast ever known to man. So succulent and flavorful, your guests will be begging to take some home. We guarantee most people will pick this over turkey.
19. Branzino
More often enjoyed in Europe, we recommend bringing this type of sea bass to your Thanksgiving feast this year. Stuff it with complimentary ingredients and serve it up whole with some fresh lemon slices ready for squeezing. If you cook it just right, you'll have a nicely crispy exterior and a flaky and soft interior loaded with flavor.
20. Glazed Ham
Sweet, salty, and super tender, consider making a glazed ham this year instead to give your Thanksgiving meal a different flavor. If you're worried about missing out on those delicious next-day turkey sandwiches, don't worry, glazed ham works just as well.
