Description
This ultimate vegan lentil meatloaf is a hearty, flavorful, and protein-packed plant-based alternative to traditional meatloaf. Perfect for a nutritious family dinner or holiday meal, it’s easy to make, gluten-free adaptable, and great for meal prep!
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 1/2 cups cooked and drained lentils
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup mushrooms, finely diced
- 1 cup oats or breadcrumbs
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseeds
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (vegan version)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce (for glaze)
Instructions
- Prepare the Lentils: Cook lentils according to package instructions until tender. Drain well and mash slightly with a fork or potato masher.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Sauté until soft and fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed lentils, sautéed vegetables, oats or breadcrumbs, ground flaxseeds, tomato paste, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Form the Loaf: Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. Transfer the mixture to a parchment-lined loaf pan and press it down firmly to shape.
- Glaze the Loaf: Spread a thin layer of ketchup or barbecue sauce over the top for added flavor and caramelization.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and bake for 40-45 minutes until firm and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Cool and Serve: Allow the meatloaf to cool for 10-15 minutes before slicing to help it hold its shape.
Notes
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free oats or breadcrumbs.
- Nutty Twist: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for extra crunch and richness.
- Spicy Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne for heat.
- BBQ Style: Swap the ketchup glaze for a smoky barbecue sauce.
- Cheesy Flavor: Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami boost.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: American, vegan
Keywords: vegan meatloaf, lentil meatloaf, plant-based dinner, healthy meatloaf, gluten-free option, easy vegan recipe, holiday main dish