5 Turkey Alternatives for Thanksgiving (Quick Guide for Better Results)

Turkey isn’t your only option. It’s long to cook, dries out fast, and oversized for smaller gatherings. If you want something easier, tastier, and still holiday-worthy, these five mains are the best swaps.

Also, your guests won’t remember the sides. They’ll remember the meat. Impress them this year; MeatStick V makes sure it comes out perfect.

1. Prime Rib

A marbled beef roast that feels just as “holiday special” as turkey.
Why it works: predictable, flavorful, and easier to nail using internal temperature.
Target temp: 130–135°F (medium rare).
Portion: ~½ lb per person (boneless).

2. Spiral Ham

Fully cooked and pre-sliced, so you only reheat.
Why it works: extremely forgiving and perfect for large gatherings.
Target temp: 140°F internal.
Tip: glaze in the last 15–20 minutes to avoid burning.

3. Beef Tenderloin

Tender, lean, and fast from oven to table.
Why it works: cooks in under an hour with consistent results end to end.
Target temp: 130–135°F (medium rare).
Best for: 6–10 people.

4. Whole Side of Salmon

Light but still festive, and finishes in 20–25 minutes.
Why it works: ideal for small groups and pairs easily with Thanksgiving sides.
Target temp: 125–130°F for juicy flakes.
Portion: ½ lb per person.

5. Pork Loin Roast

Lean, budget-friendly, and easy to flavor with herbs, maple, mustard, or apple.
Why it works: simple roast with broad appeal.
Target temp: 145°F with a short rest.
Tip: temperature control matters because pork loin dries out quickly when overcooked.

How to Pick the Right One

• Small group: salmon or tenderloin
• Large group: ham or prime rib
• Best value: pork loin
• Most impressive: prime rib
• Least effort: spiral ham

Quick Temperature Chart