Mouthwatering Vegetarian Meatloaf Recipe for Healthy Living
Are you looking for a hearty and delicious meal that doesn’t include any meat? Then, you’re in the right place! Welcome to my vegetarian meatloaf recipe that tastes just like the classic meatloaf recipe.
I understand how challenging it can be to find satisfying vegetarian options that fill you up without leaving you feeling unsatisfied. That’s why I’ve created this recipe for those who want to enjoy a wholesome and fulfilling meal without the use of animal products.
The beauty of this recipe is that it uses all plant-based ingredients such as chickpeas, lentils, onions, and celery. The combination of these flavorful ingredients creates a dish that will have even meat-eaters coming back for seconds.
Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just starting on your plant-based journey, this recipe will make you feel like you’re indulging in a classic comfort food dish. So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let’s get started on creating the best vegetarian meatloaf recipe you’ll ever taste!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let me tell you why you’re going to absolutely adore this vegetarian meatloaf recipe.
Firstly, if you’re a meat-lover and want to transition into a plant-based diet, this recipe will provide the satisfaction of traditional meatloaf without using any meat at all. It’s an excellent way to reduce your intake of animal-based proteins while still enjoying a classic dish that you love.
Secondly, this vegetarian meatloaf is so easy to make! No longer do you have to spend hours sweating in the kitchen, trying to cook that perfect meatloaf. This recipe comes together quickly with minimal effort, perfect for those busy weeknights.
Thirdly, this vegetarian meatloaf is made with simple ingredients that are readily available in your local grocery stores. No need to visit any specialty stores or scour the internet for hard-to-find ingredients.
Lastly, this recipe is extremely versatile and can be easily modified to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer a spicy kick or a slightly sweet taste to your meatless meatloaf, the options are endless. With just a few variations, this recipe will fit right into anyone’s dietary restrictions or preferences.
So why not give this meatless meatloaf recipe a try? The taste of it is just like traditional meatloaf and it’s something special that shouldn’t be passed up.
Ingredient List
Here are the ingredients you’ll need to make my amazing vegetarian meatloaf that is so good, it tastes like real meatloaf!
- 2 cups of cooked lentil
- 12 ounces of vegan chickpea meat or impossible burger meat
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 3 ounces of egg substitute
- 3/4 cup of ketchup
- 1/2 cup of barbecue sauce
- 1 cup of breadcrumbs, preferably whole wheat
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
These ingredients make for the best vegetarian meatloaf recipe around, and I guarantee you won’t even realize it’s not real meat! Make sure to use egg substitute instead of actual eggs to keep this recipe vegan.
The Recipe How-To
Now, it’s time to roll up our sleeves and make this Vegetarian Meatloaf That Tastes Like Meatloaf recipe! The recipe yields one 9″x5″ meatloaf that serves six people.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- 2 cups cooked and cooled lentils
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3/4 cup celery, diced
- 1 1/2 cups mushrooms, diced
- 12 oz plant-based ground “meat,” such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger
- 1/2 cup ketchup
- 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 1/2 cups breadcrumbs
- 2 teaspoons each dried basil, thyme, and oregano
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire Sauce
Steps
This recipe has four distinct steps:
Step One: Prepare the Lentil Mixture
First, preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked lentils with diced onion, minced garlic, diced celery and mushrooms.
Step Two: Add the Plant-Based Ground Beef
Add the plant-based ground “meat” – Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger – to the mixing bowl with the lentil mixture.
Step Three: Add Wet and Dry Ingredients
Next add 1/2 cup ketchup, 1/4 cup barbecue sauce, and 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add breadcrumbs (1 ½ cups) to bind everything together. Flavor with herbs such as dried basil, oregano and thyme; soy sauce or tamari; vegetarian Worcestershire sauce.
Step Four: Bake
Transfer the mixture into a loaf pan and bake for approximately an hour at 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Let sit for about five minutes before slicing it. Serve hot with any of your favorite side dishes like mashed potatoes!
That’s it! Now you know how to cook an incredibly delicious meat-free meal that will satisfy even the most demanding palates!
Substitutions and Variations
Now, let’s take a look at some substitutions and variations that you can use to make this meatless meatloaf recipe even more versatile and adaptable to suit your personal tastes.
Egg Substitute
For those who follow a vegan diet or have an egg allergy, there are several egg substitutes that work well in this recipe. You can use a flaxseed egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water), mashed avocado or silken tofu.
Meatless Meatloaf
You can easily replace the lentils with other plant-based protein options such as chickpeas or crumbled tempeh. These ingredients offer a similar texture and substance to traditional meatloaf while remaining vegetarian-friendly.
Sauce
Instead of using ketchup or barbecue sauce for the topping, try experimenting with different flavors such as hot sauce, tahini sauce or mushroom gravy. It adds a new flavor profile to this classic dish.
Spices and Herbs
The recipe already calls for several key spices like garlic powder, cumin, paprika which give it the perfect taste. But feel free to add more herbs and spices like oregano, thyme, rosemary or basil to really elevate the flavor.
Gluten-Free Option
Those with gluten sensitivities can substitute breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs which are easily available at grocery stores.
The possibilities with this vegan meatloaf recipe are endless! Be daring in your modifications and enjoy creating your perfect meal.
Serving and Pairing
Serving and pairing options are limitless when it comes to this savory vegetarian meatloaf that tastes like meatloaf. Whether you opt for a traditional side of mashed potatoes or mix it up with some grilled vegetables, there is no wrong way to elevate this dish.
To complement the tangy flavors of the ketchup and barbecue sauce that coat the outside of this delicious loaf, I would suggest pairing it with an earthy red wine such as a Malbec or Zinfandel. For a non-alcoholic option, a cold glass of unsweetened iced tea would be the perfect accompaniment.
If you’re serving this vegetarian meatloaf as the main course for dinner, try adding a side salad or roasted vegetables to round out the meal. A crisp green salad with a homemade vinaigrette or roasted brussels sprouts with garlic and lemon would be delightful pairings.
For leftovers, this meatless meatloaf can be used to create wholesome sandwiches. Simply slice a piece of the loaf and add it to your favorite bread with lettuce, tomato, and any other condiments that you enjoy. You could even take things up a notch by adding avocado or pickled onions to your sandwich.
With countless possibilities for serving and pairing, the best vegetarian meatloaf made possible with impossible burger is sure to become an instant classic on your dinner table.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Making the vegetarian meatloaf ahead of time can help to reduce mealtime stress, which makes it an excellent option for busy weeknights. Luckily, this meatloaf recipe is perfect for making in advance, and it’s incredibly easy to store and reheat.
Firstly, when making this meatless meatloaf, let it cool down at room temperature before storing it in an airtight container. You can keep it stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. If you plan on saving it longer than that, keep the best vegetarian meatloaf recipe in the freezer, where it will last for up to two months.
When you’re ready to eat, take out the vegetarian meatloaf from the refrigerator or freezer and let it thaw to room temperature. Preheat your oven or air fryer to 350°F, and cook your chickpea vegan meatloaf covered with aluminum foil for about 10-15 minutes if reheating from fridge or for about 20-25 minutes if reheating from frozen. You may also heat individual slices of vegetarian or vegan meatloaf in the microwave, set at medium power level between 30 seconds and 1 minute for each slice.
One thing to keep in mind is that when reheating the impossible burger meatloaf , it may not hold up entirely during reheating due to the nature of its ingredients. Still, don’t worry too much about this as it will still be delicious like every vegetable lentil loaf should taste. So feel free to give this make-ahead and reheat recipe a try!
Tips for Perfect Results
When creating a vegetarian meatloaf that tastes like the real deal, there are some tips and tricks to keep in mind to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Here are some of my top tips for perfecting your vegetarian or vegan meatloaf recipe:
First and foremost, it’s important to use high-quality ingredients. Choose meat substitute products such as Beyond Meat or Impossible Burger for the best texture and flavor. Additionally, using fresh vegetables like celery and onion can add a depth of savory flavor to the dish.
When mixing your ingredients, be sure not to overdo it. The more you mix, the tougher your meatloaf will turn out. Mix until everything is just combined, then pat down firmly into your loaf pan.
Another helpful hint is to let your ingredients chill for an hour before preparing them. In recipes with egg substitutes, this can make all the difference between binding together seamlessly or falling apart in crumbles.
Using parchment paper in your loaf pan can also make clean-up quick and easy while helping your meatloaf cook more evenly. Simply line the pan with overlapping parchment paper before adding the mixture, then bake as you normally would.
Finally, don’t forget about presentation! Serving your vegetarian or vegan “meat” loaf with a side of mashed potatoes or covered in ketchup or barbecue sauce can elevate your dish and enhance the overall flavor experience.
By following these tips and tricks, you’ll ensure that your meatless meatloaf is both delicious and visually appealing!
FAQ
Now, onto the frequently asked questions about this vegetarian meatloaf recipe. Whether you are new to cooking meatless dishes or a seasoned vegan chef, I’ve got answers to your most pressing questions. So, let’s dive into some common queries that you may have about making this recipe.
What gives meatloaf the best flavor?
Spice up your meatloaf game with a few simple additions that will take your taste buds on a savory ride. Move beyond the standard salt and pepper and explore your spice rack to add more complexity and character. By incorporating minced garlic, parsley, and thyme, you’ll be treating yourself to a deeply savory experience. To turn up the flavor volume even more, consider mixing Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, and ketchup into the pre-baked mixture for a bold and mouthwatering finish.
What can I substitute for beef in meatloaf?
When it comes to cooking, ground chicken and ground turkey can be excellent alternatives to ground beef, as they offer a similar texture without compromising on taste. While poultry may have a lighter color than beef and can affect the appearance of certain dishes, the flavor remains just as delightful.
What is vegetarian meatloaf made of?
This recipe for a meatless meatloaf is truly fantastic. It’s made with a mix of nuts, rice, mushrooms, onions, herbs, and cheese, which oddly enough come together to create a texture and look that’s quite similar to real meatloaf. In fact, it’s so delicious that many would argue it’s even better than the traditional meat version.
What is the secret to non greasy meatloaf?
I have a fantastic tip that will help you cut down on the greasiness of your home-cooked meatloaf. Just by adding a simple step, you can drastically reduce the fat content in your dish. Next time you prepare meatloaf, all you have to do is layer slices of bread at the bottom of the pan before adding the meat mixture. As the meat cooks, the bread will soak up most of the fat, resulting in a much healthier meal without sacrificing flavor.
Bottom Line
In conclusion, this vegetarian meatloaf recipe is a game-changer for those looking for a meatless alternative without compromising on taste and texture. With its flavorful blend of ingredients, it’s no wonder why it’s the best vegetarian meatloaf you’ll ever taste. And for those who are vegan, this recipe can easily be made with plant-based substitutes like the Impossible Burger or Beyond Meat.
What’s great about this recipe is that it’s customizable–feel free to swap out ingredients or add your own flavors to make it your own. It’s also incredibly easy to make and can even be made ahead of time for a stress-free meal prep.
So next time you’re in the mood for comfort food, give this vegetarian meatloaf recipe a try. Not only is it delicious and satisfying, but it’s also a healthier option that’s gluten-free and packed with nutrients from vegetables and legumes. Trust me–you won’t miss the meat!
Vegetarian Meatloaf That Tastes Like Meatloaf! Recipe
Ingredients
- 12 ounces soy crumbles
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 1 stalk celery, chopped
- 1/2 cup egg substitute
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1/4 cup ketchup
Instructions
- Heat oven to 350°F
- If crumbles are frozen, microwave crumbles in medium bowl on high for 1-1/2 minute
- Add all remaining ingredients except ketchup; mix lightly. Let stand 5 minute.
- Shape into loaf in 8-inch pie plate; top with ketchup.
- Bake35 minute or until center is done (160ºF).
Add Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Jolo is a talented chef and food blogger with a passion for vegan and Caribbean flavors. From savory vegetarian dishes to tropical smoothies, Jolo’s Kitchen has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for meat-free meals or creative Caribbean recipes, Jolo’s Kitchen is the perfect place for you.