Remember that one Friendsgiving? The one where Sarah forgot to buy cranberry sauce? Or when Mark tried to roast a pumpkin whole? We all have those stories. Friendsgiving is about connection, gratitude, and sharing a delicious meal with people you love. But let’s be honest, sometimes the thought of another roasted turkey can feel… a little predictable.
That’s why I’ve compiled this list of 27+ Friendsgiving food ideas that are not turkey. Because celebrating doesn’t have to revolve around poultry! We’re talking sides, mains, desserts – everything you need to build a memorable, mouthwatering feast. Get ready to ditch the bird and embrace a world of flavorful possibilities!
Why You’ll Love This Collection of Friendsgiving Food Ideas
This isn’t just a list; it’s a roadmap to Friendsgiving success! These ideas are:
- Diverse: From hearty mains to elegant appetizers and decadent desserts, there’s something for every taste.
- Adaptable: Most of these dishes can be adjusted to suit dietary needs and preferences (vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free options galore!).
- Conversation-Starting: A unique menu immediately makes your Friendsgiving stand out.
- Stress-Reducing: Avoiding the turkey drama alone is worth its weight in roasted vegetables!
Let’s Dive In: The Food Ideas! (And One Spotlight Recipe)
Okay, so 27+ is a lot! I’ll break it down into categories. But first, let’s spotlight one fantastic main course option that’s sure to be a hit: Roasted Butternut Squash Lasagna with Sage and Brown Butter.
(Note: Recipe for Roasted Butternut Squash Lasagna provided below.)
Mains (Beyond the Turkey):
- Roasted Butternut Squash Lasagna (Featured Recipe!)
- Beef Wellington (Impressive and delicious!)
- Crown Roast of Pork (A showstopper!)
- Shepherd’s Pie (Comfort food classic)
- Stuffed Acorn Squash (Gorgeous and versatile)
- Salmon en Croute (Elegant and flaky)
- Vegetarian Wellington (Packed with veggies and flavor!)
Sides (The Real Stars!):
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze (Crowd-pleaser)
- Sweet Potato Casserole with Pecan Streusel (Classic with a twist)
- Creamy Mac and Cheese (Always a winner)
- Green Bean Casserole (Elevated with fresh ingredients)
- Cranberry Apple Salad with Walnuts (Bright and refreshing)
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes (Fluffy and flavorful)
- Roasted Root Vegetables (Carrots, parsnips, potatoes – delicious!)
- Cornbread Stuffing (Without the turkey!)
- Wild Rice Pilaf with Mushrooms and Cranberries (Hearty and festive)
- Maple Glazed Carrots (Sweet and savory)
- Honey Roasted Parsnips (A surprising treat!)
Appetizers (To Get the Party Started):
- Baked Brie with Fig Jam & Honey (Easy and elegant)
- Spiced Pecans (Perfect for snacking)
- Charcuterie Board (A beautiful and customizable spread)
- Cranberry Brie Bites (Simple and festive)
- Deviled Eggs (Always a classic)
Desserts (Sweet Endings):
- Pumpkin Pie (A must-have, even without the turkey!)
- Apple Crisp (Warm and comforting)
- Pecan Pie Bars (Easy to serve and delicious)
- Chocolate Bourbon Bread Pudding (Indulgent and impressive)
- Pear and Almond Tart (Sophisticated and flavorful)
Roasted Butternut Squash Lasagna with Sage and Brown Butter: Recipe Details
This lasagna is rich, comforting, and visually stunning. It’s also surprisingly easy to make!
Yields: 8-10 servings
Prep time: 30 minutes
Cook time: 45-50 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 large butternut squash (about 3 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
- 3 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 lb lasagna noodles (oven-ready recommended)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh sage
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup fresh sage leaves, for garnish
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
- Roast the Squash: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss the cubed butternut squash with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread in a single layer on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.
- Make the Brown Butter Sage Sauce: While the squash is roasting, melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Cook, swirling occasionally, until the butter turns golden brown and smells nutty (about 5-7 minutes). Stir in the chopped sage and remove from heat.
- Prepare the Ricotta Mixture: In a bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, egg, and chopped sage. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the brown butter sage sauce in the bottom of a 9×13 inch baking dish. Layer with lasagna noodles, overlapping as needed.
- Spread half of the ricotta mixture over the noodles. Top with half of the roasted butternut squash. Drizzle with a little more of the brown butter sage sauce.
- Repeat layers: noodles, ricotta mixture, butternut squash, brown butter sage sauce.
- Top with a final layer of noodles and the remaining brown butter sage sauce. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
- Bake: Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Rest & Garnish: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh sage leaves.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Suggestions
- Prep Ahead: Roast the butternut squash a day in advance to save time.
- Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegan ricotta and mozzarella cheese for a completely plant-based dish.
- Gluten-Free: Substitute gluten-free lasagna noodles.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the ricotta mixture for a little heat.
- Serving: Serve the lasagna with a simple green salad and a crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.
- Add Protein: While this recipe is vegetarian, feel free to add cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken to the layers.
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving)
- Calories: 450-550
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
(Disclaimer: Nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.)
Ready to Ditch the Turkey?
Friendsgiving is all about the joy of gathering and sharing a delicious meal. Don’t feel confined by tradition! Explore these 27+ Friendsgiving food ideas that are not turkey, get creative in the kitchen, and create a feast that your friends will remember for years to come. Give that Roasted Butternut Squash Lasagna a try – you won’t regret it! Happy Friendsgiving!
