Vegan meatloaf is a hearty, flavorful dish that proves comfort food doesn’t need to rely on animal products. It captures the essence of a traditional meatloaf while embracing plant-based ingredients, resulting in a satisfying meal that is both nourishing and familiar. Perfect for family dinners, holiday gatherings, or meal prep throughout the week, this dish brings together a wholesome blend of vegetables, legumes, and grains to create a texture and flavor profile that stands proudly on its own.
The foundation of a good vegan meatloaf often begins with lentils, beans, or chickpeas. These legumes provide the protein and substance that give the loaf its hearty feel. Combined with grains such as oats, rice, or quinoa, they form a base that holds together beautifully while still maintaining a tender bite. To enhance flavor, sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms are frequently added, offering depth and a touch of sweetness. Herbs like thyme, sage, and rosemary bring a savory note that recalls the flavors of traditional meatloaf, while soy sauce, tomato paste, or nutritional yeast can be used to enrich the umami factor.
Texture is key, and this is where thoughtful preparation shines. Mashed beans provide binding power, oats or breadcrumbs add structure, and vegetables bring moisture. The balance of these components ensures the loaf holds its shape yet remains pleasantly tender when sliced. Topped with a tangy glaze, often a mix of ketchup, balsamic vinegar, and a hint of maple syrup, the loaf develops a glossy finish and a sweet-savory punch that ties everything together.
One of the best things about vegan meatloaf is its versatility. It can be enjoyed hot out of the oven as the centerpiece of a meal, paired with mashed potatoes and gravy, or roasted vegetables. Leftovers make excellent sandwiches the next day, especially when served on crusty bread with fresh greens and extra glaze. It’s also a forgiving recipe, easily adapted to suit personal preferences or whatever ingredients are on hand.
More than just a plant-based alternative, vegan meatloaf is a dish that embodies comfort and creativity. It celebrates the depth and variety of plant-based cooking, offering a meal that is satisfying, flavorful, and welcoming to all eaters, vegan or not.
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils cooked and drained
- 1 cup breadcrumbs whole grain
- 1/2 cup onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon thyme dried
- 1 teaspoon oregano dried
- 1/2 cup carrot grated
- 1/2 cup celery finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons ketchup for topping
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly grease a loaf pan.
- In a large bowl, mix together cooked lentils, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, soy sauce, thyme, oregano, grated carrot, and chopped celery.
- Transfer the mixture into the prepared loaf pan and press it down firmly to form a loaf shape.
- Spread ketchup evenly over the top of the loaf.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 1 hour, or until the top is golden and the loaf is heated through.
- Let the vegan meatloaf cool for a few minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition
Quick and easy recipe! Just what I needed for a weeknight dinner. Will make again!
This sounds delish! I love how simple it is. Can’t wait to try it myself!
This is the best vegan meatloaf I’ve ever tried! So flavorful and filling.
I was skeptical at first, but this turned out pretty good! My non-vegan friends even liked it.
Doesn’t look like meatloaf to me. More like a veggie brick. LOL.
I think it looks great! Meatloaf can be healthy and delicious without meat. 😋
Not a fan. It tasted weird and the texture was off. I guess lentils aren’t for everyone.
Why would you replace meat with lentils? Disgusting.
Sooo good! I loved how it actually held together. Definitely a keeper!
Too many veggies! Just want meat, why bother with lentils? 🤷♂️
But you can add more meat if you want! Just don’t think its vegan then 😅
I actually added some chili powder for a kick. It made it so much better! Highly recommend tweaking it!
Chili powder sounds awesome! I’ll definitely try that next time!
YAWN… where’s the flavor? This was dry and boring. Sorry, but not worth the time. 🙁
So easy to make, but kinda bland. I think it needs more seasoning. Might try adding some hot sauce next time.
This is the best meatloaf I’ve ever had! Even my non-vegan friends loved it. Definitely making it again!
I’m so glad you liked it! It’s nice to hear it was a hit with non-vegan friends too!
I was skeptical about using lentils, but this recipe rocked! I added some chili flakes for extra kick. Yum!
I don’t understand why anyone would want to make a meatloaf without meat. This doesn’t taste good at all.
Just okay. I added some veggie broth and it helped a bit, but I think it just ain’t for me.