![Vegetarian Skillet Chili](https://cdn.statically.io/img/www.southernliving.com/thmb/qdjtKvjR6OjQIzZnebcUenVRfOY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27176-HIH-SkilletChili_0230_4x3-2000-990fed264dff4235a890c0943608173a.jpg)
Meat-free options for Christmas may seem like an impossible task when you're used to roasting a turkey or glazing a ham, but it's not nearly as hard as you think to pull off. If planning a vegetarian Christmas dinner this year, you aren't stuck making only salads, although veggies will likely be prominently featured.
Hearty casseroles and pasta dishes, like our creamy kale and pasta bake, will take the place of the meaty mains, while many of the classic sides fill the table—just without the added bacon. Dressing, cornbread, and mashed potatoes can all be made vegetarian without sacrificing any flavor. And we promise guests will leave just as happy and stuffed as they would if meat were on the table. Explore our list of vegetarian dinner ideas to serve this Christmas.
Ben Mims' Perfect Cornbread
![Ben Mim's Perfect Cornbread Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/9DboKwud_MAbafaPkbRc9r_vh3U=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2311801_wtcns_09_0_0_0_2_1_0-1-d33b83d3d7b9445580dc493e0e70a99e.jpg)
If perfect is in the name, then you know this cornbread is going to be good. Made with plenty of butter, you won't miss the bacon drippings if you're used to using them in cornbread. It's made in a cast iron skillet, which makes the sides irresistibly crispy.
Beet, Fennel, and Apple Salad
![Beet, Fennel, and Apple Salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/2vtxBxa4msQ0sEsaGf8JjwEG6iU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/beet_fennel_and_apple_salad_2546401_chris_026_0_0_0-f9d28cebc9ee412281ec7180db8ecb66.jpg)
Beets are no stranger to the Christmas dinner table. However, instead of the canned variety, we suggest a fresh take on the root. Look for red-and-white-striped Chioggia beets (also called candy cane beets) at the store, for an extra festive salad.
Herbed Wild Rice Dressing
![Thanksgiving Classic Bread Dressing Recipe](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/pc8SznCyhH37xdmXjgrtBsmqEVQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/thanksgiving-side-dishes-2483801_spect_276_1-2000-0f111f0950b549818d01326afbc18f55.jpg)
Most dressings get their flavor from sausage or meat stocks, but this one gets its flavor from fresh herbs like sage, a nuttiness from toasted walnuts, and brightness from apples and celery. Feel free to swap the toasted walnuts for pecans.
Angel Biscuits
![angel biscuits](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/X05X7V8eBa_OVp20VIYI-5tG5hA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/angel-biscuits-recipe-15-1-7a6252d74c9a4170aa0ee2d92954413b.jpg)
Every table needs a biscuit and these feather-light ones are our favorites. Plus, they can be prepared one week in advance to make your holiday cooking schedule a little less stressful. They're so good, you'll think they were sent straight from heaven.
Green Bean Lasagna
![Green Bean Lasagna](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/ShuotD94QHpuOWnAQiqnYtG1gME=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/green-bean-lasagna-sl-x-51bcee5b829e4f548efe621526745e85.jpg)
Combine two classic holiday dishes into one hearty main dish with this twist on lasagna featuring the flavors of green bean casserole. For a fun twist, we swapped cream of mushroom soup for a parmesan cream sauce. Top with buttery crackers and french-fried onions for an ideal salty crunch.
Creamed Spinach
![Creamed Spinach](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/b-KdZs-rZDNiNKVFdeML3D7S58Q=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/creamed_spinach_029_0-05bf97ba052d40dabf0100853d59e0c6.jpg)
Even picky eaters will love this creamed spinach recipe. Plus, it's an easy way to serve greens that isn't another salad. Loaded with cream and cheese, then finished with a touch of nutmeg and toasted pine nuts, this vegetable side is a hearty, satisfying addition to the table.
Lisa Cericola's Herbed Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes
![Lisa's Herbed Brown Butter Mashed Potatoes](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5fYridC4O-q5YZBXhwrgq5F3NP0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2684801_Thank_0260-2000-3bef029a71984777829deb4cce2c5a1a.jpg)
These mashed potatoes are so creamy and delicious, they don't even need gravy. Made with the quadruple threat of cream cheese, butter, half-and-half, as well as a generous swirl of herbed brown butter on top, these are the ultimate mashed potatoes. Be sure not to overmix to avoid a gummy texture.
Classic Cranberry Salad
![classic cranberry salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/N0JPyTBQmLhA-I3vSeh1gl7CVvY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/classic-cranberry-salad-recipe-1x1-1-4bd4c73e6b1f4668a5208cdcc571c846.jpg)
You don't need a turkey or ham on the table in order to serve cranberry sauce. This homemade version, full of fresh fruit and crunchy pecans is a great condiment to serve alongside vegetable sides, casseroles, and breads.
Spicy Roasted Sweet Potato Salad
![Spicy Roasted Sweet Potato Salad](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/XkFsTl9RKB0BWLxj52xOskhbs88=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2671901_HIHPo_20640-2000-cd234f76611d4efba39d38dd4c1d124f.jpg)
Sweet potatoes are a staple around the holidays, but if you already have plenty of casseroles on the table, try this spicy sweet potato salad instead. The Southwest-inspired twist uses corn, black beans, and jalapeño to brighten up the root vegetable.
Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese
![Roasted Tomato Macaroni and Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/dEJW5wVvFZ8Z0I55V94Hy4IDJ5I=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/roasted_tomato_macaroni_and_cheese_2531701_qfsba_1465_0_1-f31e83757a63477193d734cdfedf27b3.jpg)
Macaroni and cheese is a favorite of meat-eaters and vegetarians alike. This version, with roasted tomatoes on top and a blend of four cheeses in the sauce, adds extra flavor to the classic.
Sweet Potato Rolls
![Sweet Potato Rolls](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/NRscUOTJUp19qbC34sp0tllwj_Y=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2615301_thank_thanksgiving_rolls_058_0_0_0-1-92b295644a994320a538d811672f7809.jpg)
Mashed sweet potato is the secret to these soft, slightly sweet orange-hued rolls. Served with a side of hot honey butter, we assure you there will be no leftovers.
Homemade Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Leeks
![Green Bean Casserole with Crispy Leeks](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/mh9xo8MIs41_iDA5QkzhVWFt_ho=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2582801_6make_14_1_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0-2000-ede8cfc200e34e47a7b433e9e8b7e61e.jpg)
Crispy leeks are a green bean casserole game changer. They also happen to look super elegant for the perfect presentation.
Old-School Squash Casserole
![Old-School Squash Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/LLKGRleB2MtJdUdFYXj6u1lC-eU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/old-school_squash_casserole_2525301_south_0083_1_0_0_0_1_0_0_1_0_0_1_0_0_1_0_0_0_1-9b710ed5efc24f2ebceb24fac67d10cc.jpg)
This classic meat and three dish is a great hearty main for vegetarians. Our favorite part is the crunchy, buttery cracker topping that keeps us coming back for seconds.
Green Beans with Garlic
![Green Beans with Garlic](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/pWgQ4b38lxPgwyRbU_ajlkG8Fdg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/green-beans-garlic-sl-x-6449ed7c138d435f86b2268c535f59ad.jpg)
A simple sautéed vegetable side like this is always a winner on the Christmas buffet. This five-ingredient dish uses only pantry staples (aside from the beans) but can be customized to your tastes with add-ins like red pepper flakes, shallot, or a little lemon juice.
Creamed-Corn Grits
![Creamed-Corn Grits](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/pU2sRkcsf6cSNwo2xQcRdoAICcQ=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2663301_Socia_0134-2000-3f568eece09147d0baa6365b358297ac.jpg)
Grits are welcome on any and all occasions. These grits that borrow the best aspects of creamed corn are a rich side that goes with almost anything else you're serving.
Collard Green Salad with Oranges and Port-Soaked Cherries
![Collard Green Salad with Oranges and Port-Soaked Cherries](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/2kRROXSgSBHavuWcaM3QKyjbZcU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2628901_Colla_Salad_0002-2000-5ca7e28c266849f2a04e71912e90c281.jpg)
Who says collards have to be stewed? This fresh take on collard greens incorporates sweet and tart oranges for brightness and jammy port-soaked cherries.
Classic Candied Yams
![Classic Candied Yams](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/DkobSULnbs3x7yimFMjGD5qnlas=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/classic_candied_yams_0_0-601830c4f67843908c38cf7dfb59bfb7.jpg)
You need at least one side that is sweet enough that it could pass for dessert and this is our pick. Lightly spiced with cinnamon, nutmeg, and vanilla, these yams are bound to spread some holiday cheer.
Asparagus with Cheese Sauce and Herb Breadcrumbs
![Asparagus with Cheese Sauce and Herb Breadcrumbs](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/27byIJqPaofnFHbOfpUDCPZewfI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2629701_asparagus_0001_0-2000-d90a256461d24dcabba4e567c1e04121.jpg)
Vegetables are always better with cheese, add herb breadcrumbs and you'll hardly feel like you're eating a vegetable. The cheese sauce also happens to be stress-free, for a dish ready in 25 minutes.
Brussels Sprout Slaw with Apples and Pecans
![Brussels Sprout Slaw with Apples and Pecans](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5kr5i6ATWxsMAyMFUFBDKO1pSWw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/january-recipes-2503001_virgi_06_0_0_0_0_0_1-cb4da1fa1d9b4651b4b30f117e7b851d.jpg)
The crunchy and refreshing antidote to all the creamy, cheesy, and gooey dishes on the table. Use grocery-store pre-shredded sprouts to cut down on prep time.
Roasted Cauliflower with Seed Salsa
![Ashleigh Shanti's Roasted Cauliflower with Seed Salsa](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/NuaCaFCbIqA1bmLypPLLljdY3yk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/pfe_SL_AS_5344-2000-1bdcf6c8d3f04325bdfd3253807bade5.jpg)
The star of this dish is the seed salsa, made from all kinds of seeds, including sunflower, sesame, mustard, cumin, and coriander with heat from a chile de arbol. The salsa adds both great crunch and spice to the toasty, roasted cauliflower.
Tabitha Brown's Vegan Mac and Cheese
![Tabitha Brown's Vegan Mac and Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/29RdO_5XgEgBH0ekLJ7cxMjQfLc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2659602_Tabit_044-2000-765605127e8d4a2c81043099c4997df4.jpg)
While vegetarian dishes don't have to be vegan, this non-dairy mac and cheese might have people giving up dairy for good. Nutritional yeast is the secret ingredient that keeps this comfort food classic as cheesy tasting as ever, without using any cheese.
Butternut Squash Lasagna
![Butternut Squash Lasagna](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/qgnwivMnXGFPfBZvs-6llR2JHXs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2649301_OAD_ButternutSquashLasagne__04-2000-4af1284eee7242fa95acdab48e417533.jpg)
You could serve any lasagna recipe (without meat sauce) for a vegetarian Christmas dinner, but we think this butternut squash version made with seasonal winter veggies is ideal for serving during the holidays. Made with no-boil noodles, it's also easy to throw together.
Crispy Potato Galette
![Crispy Potato Galette](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/RAXFy_wpPkGSOt4Y49_ZlxBPsk0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2636201_Thank_Spread0002_Crispy-Potato-Galette-2000-d3f2f7b88da94a0a8279e7cf684e65bb.jpg)
Mashed potatoes are delicious, but they aren't nearly as beautiful as this layered potato galette. Pro tip: use a mandoline for picture-perfect potato slices (just watch your fingertips).
Stuffed Acorn Squash with Farro
![Stuffed Acorn Squash with Farro](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/2kNxISJnyQ5vqkvr1Z58uNTSelU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2636201_Thank_Stuffed_Acorn_Squash_0003-2000-a74c5f9411494adaa401bd38ed47af6f.jpg)
A colorful and seasonal main dish that won't leave vegetarians wanting for anything. Stuffed with farro, dried cranberries, and sliced almonds, it hits on all the nutty, sweet, and salty notes. Plus, any leftover farro stuffing doubles as a great salad the next day mixed with some fresh greens.
Savory Corn Pudding
![Savory Corn Pudding](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/tGho89IKmGyghtk_fAzXrtQjUtM=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/savory_corn_pudding_0_0-c6c4a9cf99c24a3fa7c80e11d742ef29.jpg)
This corn pudding recipe puts a savory spin on the classic with chopped onion and fresh thyme. It's not low on calories, but trust us when we say all the heavy cream and butter in this dish is worth it.
Sumac Carrots with Feta Mousse and Crispy Panko
![Coby Ming and Damaris Phillips' Sumac Carrots with Feta Mousse and Crispy Panko](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/7M5YrLbms93Ibt7szUa40cUVRTI=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2644001_CooksCOTY_6-2000-0a5b42ae4ce34f139ce886e2b915b0b4.jpg)
You've probably roasted carrots, sautéed them, and glazed them, but have you ever served them with a feta mousse? Tangy, salty, and creamy, paired with crispy breadcrumbs and lemony sumac, these carrots are a bright, new addition to the Christmas buffet.
Creamy Kale and Pasta Bake
![Creamy Kale and Pasta Bake](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Z2glrFxSEHDqrxmKuuwB2zveSHg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/creamy_kale_and_pasta_bake_2510901_qfsap_121_0_1_1_0_0_0_0_0_0-f052fccaa2834efdbe3115e9eb673d01.jpg)
Sneak some kale onto everyone's plate with this pasta bake. Even the kid's table will happily reach for seconds once they're tasted how creamy and cheesy this pasta is.
Sweet Potato, Cauliflower, and Greens Casserole
![Sweet Potato, Cauliflower, and Greens Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/a9LtLEht4X9Kbk1cSupr4ER7Sws=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sweet-potato-cauliflower-greens-casserole-sl-x-f44086984d3d4a17b9db7698c980a9f4.jpg)
Thick slices of layered sweet potato create a meaty texture in this vegetarian casserole, which combined with an easy cream sauce hits all our favorite casserole flavors without any of the meat.
Creamy Vegetable Pot Pie
![Creamy Spring Vegetable Pot Pie](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/ezCKCvJzAKeQirHP6N1iL4d3yJ4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2645401_Sprin_PeasandCarrots0040-1-2000-f7752cb673d74509b1fe66c2cf08ee0f.jpg)
Flaky, buttery, and creamy, this delicious pot pie has no chicken and is the perfect solution for a vegetarian dinner. Frozen puff pastry makes this an easy meal to put together.
Chopped Kale Salad with Toasted Breadcrumbs
![Chopped Kale Salad with Toasted Breadcrumbs](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/UhB9oXnXEwZrbb8sUHEHbeH0SlE=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2656101_HIHKa_0029-2000-d5b15b581fc2472ca5a44de02fdeb57a.jpg)
Greek yogurt is added to the Caesar dressing for a delicious take on the classic, and romaine is swapped for kale. Hard-boiled eggs give the tossed salad a bit of protein. Plus, the toasted breadcrumbs add a wonderful crunch to the mix.
Black Bean Burgers with Comeback Sauce Recipe
![Black Bean Burgers with Comeback Sauce](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/qmRz3-K1bx76lB8a3SVjHTdUXBY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/black_bean_burgers_with_comeback_sauce_2548401_slowc_0244_0-2000-cb454182f15a4b4cab900c11150c5745.jpg)
If you're looking for a heartier meal, try these black bean burgers topped with a spicy and smoky sauce. Plus, the delicious melt-in-your-mouth burger is made in the slow cooker, so you can prepare the sides or sit back and relax while it's cooking.
Grilled Baby Eggplant Parmesan
![Grilled Baby Eggplant Parmesan](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/UcwCfu3NK9A_coNf5Tgy-1JqsFw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2620101_grill_0007-2000-315860b70bee498fad64ffda150c5aae.jpg)
Serve these healthy marinara and cheese filled grilled eggplants with bread and a salad to made this a whole meal. They are so tender and packed with flavor in every bite.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta
![Broccoli Pesto Pasta](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/BdiWl4K_HjdW1Z4NE12AyqZ_6dY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27179-Suppertime_Broccoli_11724_4x3-2000-44e8571a838a47de88a6e0c95d77f07a.jpg)
Broccoli and basil are the base of this pesto dish. This pasta salad looks beautiful in a serving bowl and can be served hot or cold. It's topped with crunchy walnuts, and a sprinkling of basil, parmesan, and pepper.
Lemon Vinaigrette Pasta Salad with Field Peas
![Lemon Vinaigrette Pasta Salad with Field Peas](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/kmBOsXGqIp6naUBC0aBMfCQU6fw=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2636901_hihea_pasta_salad_075-2000-6b5cc9549397402982caeea2c6ad0c73-380047528f2542b4a8c5b2a4b36ae061.jpg)
ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; PROP STYLING: CLAIRE SPOLLEN; FOOD STYLING: RISHON HANNERS
This colorful pasta salad is the perfect option for Christmas dinner. Herbs, honey, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, seamlessly mix in this delicious and hearty dish. It can be served chilled or at room temperature.
Fig Flatbread Recipe
![Fig Flatbread](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/C7gxRs-JSkhoc7Mh8xgFvbVOREk=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/fig_flatbread_2499901_047_0_0_0_1-0b0653030e904f98a6c15b40da7f0c61.jpg)
This flatbread recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Figs are the star of the show, but arugula, balsamic vinegar, and goat cheese intensify the symphony of flavors at play here. Store-bought pizza dough is a shortcut that ensures the meal is on the table in 30 minutes tops.
Creamy Artichoke, Kale, and Rice Gratin
![Creamy Artichoke, Kale, and Rice Gratin](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/Lw7jrxuUKeHanASea_lWZVBLzxA=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/26972_ST_EasyFreeze_0062-2000-ae7642787d844f62931d38db052c4dff.jpg)
If you love spinach-artichoke dip, do we have the dish for you. Our Test Kitchen pros call this recipe: "Reminiscent of spinach-artichoke dip, but much better." Plus, you can make this recipe and freeze it for up to six months in advance.
Slow Cooker Lentil Soup Recipe
![Slow Cooker Lentil Soup](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/z5wN_Pf5jK12tISm6u6WUyNA-D0=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/sl-digi-slow-cooker-lentil-soup107-2000-0ab05d1289cc4cdf8c33e8ece53f2feb.jpg)
Everyone loves a hearty and comforting soup on a cold winter night. Since lentils are a great source of protein, you and your crew will be satisfied for the rest of the evening. Serve with your favorite bread.
Slow-Cooker Green Minestrone
![Slow-Cooker Green Minestrone](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/pTnPmcNnDvue5869g_U0fr5TeZs=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2659901_Suppe_0043-2000-bd65f8f068aa4cf0914e392c88c7aded.jpg)
Let the slow cooker do most of the work for your Christmas dinner this year. This nutritious soup is only made better with a sprinkling of parmesan on top. Pair with sourdough to sop up every last bit of flavor.
Slow-Cooker Black Bean Soup Recipe
![Slow-Cooker Black Bean Soup Image](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/U-gNM9sfm-4PyR8wy8t59BVw-JU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/Black_Bean_Soup_079-2000-50c67092039148a5b102c759c74fea4e.jpg)
This black bean soup is as crave-worthy as it is easy to make. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it a vegetarian dish. Serve alongside a toppings bar. We recommend diced avocados, cilantro, cheese, bread, tortilla strips, and green onions—but feel free to get creative!
Squash and Green Chile Casserole
![Squash and Green Chile Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/EnIk4CT20LE5jgMGuvXB9FWLRCY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/squash_and_green_chile_casserole_2487601_summe_0061_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0_0-2000-7ada26c37525407b918cf98410b9bf77.jpg)
Trust us when we say everyone will be going back for seconds. This Tex-Mex twist is made in the slow cooker, meaning you can be a little more hands-off. Before serving, sprinkle with cilantro and cheese.
Okra and Rice Casserole
![Okra and Rice Casserole](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/vpMLvXI7_kmcI4jnDd4-Zg65gz8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2475501_newso_053_0-f84c091469d84e9b8572d9d7c730a641.jpg)
Sweet corn, Cajun spices, breadcrumbs, and sautéed okra mix in this comfort food casserole. Consider this flavor-packed dinner for your vegetarian Christmas dinner.
Potato, Leek, And Roasted Garlic Soup
![Southern Living Potato Leek and Roasted Garlic Soup](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/JPjZ-c0znAgF9yfv_85CIkWOfxU=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27530_Magic-of-Mayo_10-e42c3faa5d7c468684ccbcbb884e1e03.jpg)
Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Christine Keely
This lush, creamy soup is what vegetarian dreams are made of. Our secret ingredient—mayonnaise— gives it the delicious thick texture we all want in a good bowl of soup. Garnish the soup with pepper, thyme, and croutons.
Baked Tortellini Alfredo With Mushrooms
![Baked Tortellini Alfredo With Mushrooms in a cast iron skillet](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/iAPNN0XwbLQfptHNy8eLLqt0GCg=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2644801_Baked_Tortellini_with_Alfredo_Sauce_and_Mushrooms_250_preview-99bed6e749a84a6e857162eebe1e23c2.jpg)
ANTONIS ACHILLEOS; PROP STYLING: CHRISTINE KEELY; FOOD STYLING: EMILY NABORS HALL
This baked tortellini alfredo recipe makes a delicious and satisfying vegetarian Christmas dinner. Mushrooms are added to the mix for added flavor. It comes together in just under 30 minutes.
Vegetarian Slow-Cooker Collard Greens
![Vegetarian Slow-Cooker Collard Greens Recipe Image](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/spIhl6P4pEzCuq9afEqZ3nnieuc=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/vegetarian_slow-cooker_collard_greens_0_0-1-165954956bd34b5388593e65999ac35f.jpg)
While collards typically get their flavor from bacon or ham hocks, these greens get their sweet and tangy flavor from brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Plus, a slow cooker recipe is perfect for the holidays as it allows you to be hands-off with this dish so you can focus on another. You can even make this recipe up to two weeks in advance and freeze it in airtight bags to keep it fresh. Doesn't get much better than that.
Skillet-Roasted Carrots
![Skillet-Roasted Carrots](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/niiH8-I9ILxTaHv0meuA6Rauky8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2664701_Bount_Rainbow-Carrots_25549-2000-08f7d9e6f25046468d1b795a26d03788.jpg)
Sweet and sour, these carrots have it all. Cooked in honey and apple cider vinegar, the carrots are finished with fresh thyme for a pop of lemony brightness.
Skillet Cauliflower Mac and Cheese
![Skillet Cauliflower Mac and Cheese](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/XoMcsLHCtSrpGd3437Y1BKIrv7g=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/skillet-cauliflower-mac-cheese-sldigi_baconasparagus_02201985_0_0_0_0_0_0-2000-e30f395e1ebd4302ae72fe684eb2d234.jpg)
What is Christmas dinner if it doesn't include mac and cheese? With this creamy recipe, you get to sneak some cauliflower into the mix. Panko breadcrumbs and chives top off this cheesy dish.
Winter Greens Pesto
![Winter Greens Pesto](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/5NaPlYlP0-TNy8fRDgl8vVYXCq8=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/26957_HIHPesto_067-2000-919a61af52214c16863ad0ea58af0b09.jpg)
Make this versatile pesto recipe and keep it on hand for a few meals past Christmas dinner. Try mixing it into pasta, or spread on a grilled cheese sandwich. It's tasty however way you use it.
Winter Vegetables and Gnocchi
![Winter Vegetables and Gnocchi](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/2ZAZHpbi60HtUPYvYj3sw7JkDT4=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/dinners-2504601_month_16797_0_0_1_0_0-f105af1ead6a42ab8aeda7ecc983fe58.jpg)
Use precut butternut squash and pearl onions to have this satisfying dinner on the Christmas table in just under 30 minutes. Garnish with parsley.
Zucchini Lasagna
![Zucchini Lasagna](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/KAeK7ZU1pL15Q-J0C1eXXFhVeNY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/2573101_onean_005_0_0_0_0-2000-086adbf74cce4f658b0be3344ec8674c.jpg)
Three kinds of cheese, zucchini, tender lasagna noodles, and marinara sauce create the perfect vegetarian Christmas dinner. Use a mandolin slicer for the thinnest zucchini slices. This warm and comforting main dish will surely be a hit at your Christmas get-together.
Vegetarian Skillet Chili
![Vegetarian Skillet Chili](https://www.southernliving.com/thmb/qdjtKvjR6OjQIzZnebcUenVRfOY=/1500x0/filters:no_upscale():max_bytes(150000):strip_icc()/27176-HIH-SkilletChili_0230_4x3-2000-990fed264dff4235a890c0943608173a.jpg)
Everyone loves chili in the winter because it's warm, comforting, and endlessly customizable to your liking. This vegetarian version of chili leaves out none of the flavor, and will surely please your Christmas crowd.