There’s nothing wrong with serving turkey at Thanksgiving, but some years we crave a change from the holiday bird. There are so many amazing main course options out there — from beef roasts, to other poultry (duck, anyone?), to vegetarian mains with hearty ingredients such as eggplant and mushrooms.

Looking for some inspiration as you plan your Thanksgiving menu? Here are a few of our favourite main course recipes that would look great on a holiday table:

Where’s the beef?

With its golden, flaky crust, mushroom stuffing, and tender, rare beef, Beef Wellington is a holiday classic, and it’s sure to inspire ‘oohs’ and ‘ahhs’ when you bring it out to the table — try Jason Parsons’ recipe!

Pork  perfection

A roast loin of pork is tender, juicy, and full of flavour, especially if you stuff it before putting it in the oven. We love Randy Feltis’ unexpected yet winning combination of pineapple, kale and coconut in this stuffed pork loin roast. A more traditional, but just as delicious, take on stuffed roast pork is this apple and sage version.

Glazed ham is another holiday staple — and the leftovers make the best ham sandwiches you’ll ever eat! We recommend this maple mustard gem from Randy Feltis.

Poultry that’s not turkey

There are few things more satisfying than a simple roast chicken, a dish that works particularly well if you’re having a more intimate Thanksgiving (perhaps you and your spouse, or just the immediate family). Try this sage- and lemon-infused whole roast chicken. You could also try roast duck or goose!

Vegetarian and satisfying

If you substitute vegetable stock for beef stock, this roasted pumpkin, chestnut and sage ratatouille from Jason Parsons is the perfect vegetarian centerpiece for a fall meal. A clafouti is also an elegant dish to bring to the table — we love this savoury one with sweet potato and garlic. Or, impress your vegetarian friends by making homemade pasta — how about this butternut squash and sage gnocchi?

What are you planning to serve as your main course this Thanksgiving? Share your ideas with us in the comments!