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5 Turkey Alternatives for Smaller Thanksgiving Gatherings

Thanksgiving is around the corner, and guess what? We don’t need to deal with a whole turkey this year. There are awesome alternatives that perfectly fit smaller gatherings.

Think about all the deliciousness without fighting over the last slice of dry turkey. Our list is packed with tasty options that still put a smile on everyone’s face.

We’ve tried all these, and trust us, they’re a hit every time. Whether you prefer something classic or a bit off the beaten path, we’ve got you covered. Let’s keep it easy and scrumptious!

5 Turkey Alternatives for Smaller Thanksgiving Gatherings

For those who want to keep it traditional, here are five easy substitutes for turkey that will still make your Thanksgiving feast a success.

1 – Roasted Chicken

Roasted chicken comes out crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. It’s a win-win for flavor and texture. If turkey’s not your thing, this is your best bet.

We love how the seasoning penetrates the meat. It’s rich, flavorful, and easy to cook.

Chicken cooks faster than turkey, so less stress for us. The leftovers make fantastic sandwiches too.

You can use the same herbs and spices you would for turkey. One chicken usually serves 4-5 people. Just pop it in the oven and let it do its thing.

2 – Baked Ham

Baked ham is sweet, savory, and downright delicious. It’s glossy on the outside and juicy inside. Perfect for a change from turkey.

The glaze adds a sweet touch, making each bite memorable. Slice up some cooked ham and you’ve got instant holiday magic.

We find ham easier to cook. Plus, you can enjoy the leftovers for days. Warm it up, and it’s just as good.

One ham can easily serve 6-8 people. It’s great with classic sides like mashed potatoes or green beans.

Ready to skip the turkey? Baked ham is your go-to.

3 – Grilled Pork Tenderloin

Grilled pork tenderloin is juicy and flavorful. It’s got a smoky touch that turkey simply lacks. The seasoning sticks well to the tenderloin, giving each bite a savory punch.

We love its tenderness. It cooks quickly – under 30 minutes. Perfect for small gatherings with less waiting. It’s a lean cut but still brings rich taste. It pairs well with almost anything, from roasted veggies to mashed potatoes.

Our go-to spice mix? Salt, pepper, garlic, and paprika. One tenderloin usually serves 3-4 people, and the leftovers make great sandwiches. Scrumptious and easy!

4 – Stuffed Portobello Mushrooms

Stuffed Portobello mushrooms are a great turkey alternative. They’re meaty and full of flavor. These mushrooms soak up all the tasty juices from the stuffing.

We love how versatile they are. You can stuff them with spinach, cheese, and breadcrumbs. Each bite is hearty and satisfying. They cook fast, about 20 minutes in the oven.

One big mushroom cap per person is usually enough. The flavors blend perfectly with traditional Thanksgiving sides like mashed potatoes and green bean casserole. It’s a fun, easy swap that everyone enjoys. Why not give it a try?

5 – Vegan Lentil Loaf

Vegan lentil loaf is hearty and satisfying. It’s packed with flavors that mimic traditional meatloaf. The lentils give it a great texture, and the spices add depth.

We love how easy it is to make. Blend cooked lentils with spices, veggies, and breadcrumbs. Each slice is rich, earthy, and slightly smoky. Bake it for about 45 minutes until it’s firm.

One loaf serves about 6-8 people. It’s perfect for those who want a plant-based option. The leftovers are great, too. Slice it up for sandwiches or reheat for another meal. Simple and delicious, lentil loaf is a winner for any gathering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is roasted chicken a good turkey alternative for small gatherings?

Roasted chicken is a great choice for smaller gatherings because it’s easy to prepare, offers juicy meat, and can be served in smaller portions compared to turkey.

How does baked ham work as an alternative to turkey?

Baked ham offers a savory and sweet flavor, providing a hearty alternative to turkey. It’s perfect for those who prefer something different yet still festive.

Can grilled pork tenderloin replace turkey for Thanksgiving?

Grilled pork tenderloin makes a flavorful, lean alternative to turkey, and its smoky, savory taste makes it a wonderful choice for a non-traditional Thanksgiving feast.

How can stuffed portobello mushrooms be used for Thanksgiving?

Stuffed portobello mushrooms offer a flavorful and satisfying vegetarian option for Thanksgiving. They can be stuffed with various fillings, providing a rich, savory taste and a perfect main dish for smaller gatherings.

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