These Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes include all your holiday faves. Enjoy the delicious flavours you crave without all the extra calories!

Whether youโre hosting a big family gathering or just cooking a cozy dinner at home, these recipes prove that you donโt have to sacrifice taste to enjoy a healthier holiday meal.
Why you’ll love these recipes
- Crowd-pleasing flavours: Even picky eaters will enjoy these healthier options! There’s something for everyone.
- Make-ahead friendly: Several dishes can be prepped in advance, so you can spend less time in the kitchen on the big day.
Healthy Thanksgiving Recipes
The holidays are all about good food and special treats, but that doesnโt mean you have to load up on calorie-packed dishes. You can still enjoy all the flavours you love while keeping things a little lighter.
Thanksgiving can definitely be a tricky holiday to balance with healthy eating, so Iโve rounded up some of my favourite better-for-you recipes. From juicy roast turkey to lighter mashed potatoes and even a healthier spin on pumpkin pie, thereโs something here for every table. These dishes are perfect whether youโre hosting the big dinner or just need a crowd-pleasing potluck contribution.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance can I prepare dishes for Thanksgiving?
You can prep many sides and desserts 1โ2 days ahead; store them refrigerated and reheat or finish them the day of for fresh flavour and texture.
How can I make classic Thanksgiving sides lighter without sacrificing taste?
Use low-fat dairy or dairy alternatives, reduce sugar in recipes, add more herbs and citrus for flavour, and swap in more vegetables or whole grains.
What are good substitutes for expensive or hard-to-find seasonal ingredients?
Swap out seasonal veggies with similarly textured ones (e.g. use carrots instead of parsnips), use citrus zest instead of fresh herbs when needed, or choose frozen produce if fresh isn’t in season.
Healthy Thanksgiving Appetizers
Pair any of these healthy appetizers with a holiday cocktail or family-friendly Thanksgiving drinks. Don’t fill up on them though, the best is yet to come!



Thanksgiving Side Dishes
These healthy Thanksgiving sides really do cover it all. From lighter mashed potatoes to gluten-free stuffing and dinner rolls, plus plenty of fresh salads and veggie dishes, youโll find all your favourites here. And if youโre still looking for inspiration, donโt miss my full collection of easy, healthy Thanksgiving side dish recipes!












Healthy Main Recipes
When you want to keep things healthier for your holiday bird, white meat is always your best bet. It’s lower in fat and calories than the dark meat. You can also try ground turkey to make an easy main dish.




Healthy Thanksgiving Desserts
A holiday dinner just isn’t complete without a little something sweet. Take the guesswork out of deciding what to serve by offering any (or all!) of these healthier dessert options.


Comments & Reviews
Rachel says
I was looking for the Whiskey Caramel Apple Crisp recipe instructions. Thanks!
Taylor Stinson says
Unfortunately I donโt have this recipe anymore, sorry about this!