How to Host a Gluten-Free Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude and tradition — gathering, sharing, and slowing down together. With a few mindful gluten-free swaps, the table can feel welcoming for everyone.
Thanksgiving has always been my favorite holiday.
While time with family is a huge part of why I love it, the real reason it holds the number one spot on my list is the food. It’s one of those holidays built around family recipes, togetherness, and a table full of shared dishes — flavors that usually only come together once a year.
But when gluten is off the table, those same traditions can start to feel complicated or even isolating. I know for me, when we found out my son had a wheat allergy, I felt a pang of sadness. I worried he wouldn’t get to experience the holiday the way I had as a child — with total ease and without having to think twice about what was on his plate.
What I didn’t realize at the time is that cutting out gluten doesn’t mean missing out. In fact, many traditional Thanksgiving dishes are already naturally gluten-free. And over the years, I’ve found so many simple alternatives for those classic glutenous staples like stuffing and gravy.
With a little awareness and a few thoughtful swaps, it’s completely possible to make the holiday both safe and inclusive for everyone at the table.
A Note on Cross-Contamination
Before diving into what’s gluten-free, it’s important to start with awareness.
Even small amounts of gluten can cause reactions for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, so keeping preparation areas clean is key.
Mindful steps to take:
Be sure all utensils, dishes, and surfaces are clean before preparing gluten-free food.
Use separate utensils and serving dishes for any items that contain gluten (like traditional stuffing or gravy).
If you touch gluten, wash your hands thoroughly before handling other food.
Keep gluten-free foods in their own section of the table or counter to prevent crumbs from spreading.
If you’re not gluten-free but hosting gluten-free guests, check in with them to confirm their comfort level in how you’ll prepare the meal.
Ingredients to watch for:
Some common hidden sources of gluten include:
Wheat, barley, rye, spelt, and malt (often in broths, sauces, gravies, and marinades)
Soy sauce or teriyaki sauces (unless labeled gluten-free)
Pre-seasoned or packaged ingredients, like gravy packets or frozen vegetables with seasoning
Flour thickeners in soups, gravies, or casseroles
Certain processed condiments, like salad dressings, or spice blends
Breadcrumbs in toppings or baked dishes
A few extra moments of care — checking labels, keeping foods separate, and washing hands after touching gluten — make a big difference in creating a safe, welcoming table for everyone.
Naturally Gluten-Free Favorites
A lot of classic Thanksgiving foods are already naturally gluten-free — they just need a little awareness in how they’re prepared.
Turkey: Naturally gluten-free, but check brines, broth injections, and gravy packets for hidden gluten. Don’t stuff your turkey with gluten-containing stuffing. Opt for gluten-free or skip stuffing the bird this year and keep stuffing on the side.
Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes: Potatoes are gluten-free by nature. Be mindful of toppings like marshmallows (not all are gluten-free), crispy toppings, or gravy that might contain gluten. Always check labels for instant potatoes, as some include gluten-based thickeners.
Cranberry sauce: Most are naturally gluten-free (but double-check for modified starch or additives with hidden gluten).
Vegetables, roasted sides, and salads: Simple roasted or fresh veggies are great gluten-free options. For canned or seasoned versions, check labels carefully — or opt for unseasoned fresh or frozen produce.
Deviled eggs: Naturally gluten-free and always a crowd-pleaser. Just be mindful of any add-ins, like pre-made sauces, to ensure they don’t contain gluten.
Vegetable platters with dips: Fresh vegetables are naturally gluten-free, and most dips like hummus or guacamole are safe. Check labels on store-bought dips to be sure, and use separate serving utensils to avoid cross-contamination.
Cheese board with gluten-free crackers: Most cheeses are naturally gluten-free. Pair with gluten-free crackers, fresh fruit, or nuts for a simple, festive, and safe appetizer.
Easy Gluten-Free Swaps for Classic Sides
You don’t have to reinvent the entire menu — just a few thoughtful swaps make a big difference.
Stuffing: Choose a boxed gluten-free mix (like Aleia’s, Sprouts, or Trader Joe’s) or make your own using gluten-free bread.
Gravy: Thicken with cornstarch, potato starch, or a gluten-free flour blend. Look for packets or premade gravies labeled “gluten-free.”
Fried onions: Several brands now offer gluten-free options — perfect for topping green bean casserole.
Rolls or biscuits: Check your local gluten-free bakery or the grocery freezer section for premade options. Or, bake your own with a trusted gluten-free mix or flour blend.
✨ I recently shared a few of my favorite store-bought gluten-free finds here on Instagram — they make holiday prep so much easier.
Sweet Endings (Desserts & Baking)
Gluten-free dessert options are endless these days. Many local bakeries offer gluten-free pies or seasonal treats, and most grocery freezer sections now carry options like Katz pumpkin and apple pies or The Maine Pie Company gluten-free pies.
If you’re baking from scratch, try swapping in a good gluten-free flour blend (like Cup4Cup or another 1:1 option) in place of regular all-purpose flour in your family recipes. You can also lean into naturally gluten-free desserts — think crustless pumpkin pie, flourless chocolate cake, or apple crisp made with gluten-free oats or a nut-based crumble. These classics are every bit as comforting as the traditional versions.
Creating an Inclusive Table
The heart of Thanksgiving is in the intention we set and the food we share together. Whether you’re hosting or attending, a little awareness and care make everyone feel seen and safe.
Set aside a clearly labeled section of the table for gluten-free dishes and use separate utensils for serving. If possible, let gluten-free guests serve themselves first — this helps prevent cross-contamination and gives them confidence to enjoy their meal freely.
Inclusivity doesn’t have to be complicated. With a few small tweaks and mindful choices, Thanksgiving can be a meal that everyone partakes in — and truly enjoys.
Wishing you a peaceful, delicious, gluten-free Thanksgiving — full of gratitude, warmth, and connection.
I’m so grateful for the knowledge you share and how you inspire others. You are blessed.