Vegan Meatballs Recipe Easy and Delicious in 30 Minutes

If you’ve been craving the savory satisfaction of classic meatballs but want to keep things 100% plant-based, you’re in the right place. This easy vegan meatballs recipe delivers all the rich flavors and hearty textures you love, without any animal products.

Whether you’re a seasoned vegan or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your rotation, these meatballs are a game-changer. Made from wholesome ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and oats, they’re packed with protein and fiber, making them both nutritious and delicious.

Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or impressing guests, these vegan meatballs are incredibly versatile. You can toss them in your favorite marinara sauce for a classic spaghetti dinner or serve them as a protein-packed snack with dipping sauces.

Plus, they come together quickly and require only simple kitchen staples, so you’ll be enjoying them in no time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a fantastic option if you want something that’s both comforting and healthy. Unlike store-bought vegan meatballs, which can sometimes be loaded with preservatives or artificial flavors, these are made from whole foods you can trust.

They’re naturally gluten-free if you use gluten-free oats and soy sauce, and you can customize the seasoning to suit your taste.

Not only are these meatballs delicious and filling, but they also hold together beautifully, making them ideal for baking, frying, or simmering in sauce. This recipe is perfect for beginners because it’s straightforward and forgiving.

No fancy equipment or exotic ingredients are needed, which means you can whip up a batch anytime you want a plant-based comfort meal.

For more wholesome and easy vegan recipes, don’t miss our Vegan Slow Cooker Recipe for Easy, Delicious Meals or try the Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade to make delicious wraps with these meatballs.

And if you love exploring plant-based cuisines, check out the Vegan Cuban Recipes: Delicious Plant-Based Island Flavor for more inspiration.

Ingredients

Equipment

• Large mixing bowl
• Food processor or blender
• Skillet or frying pan
• Baking sheet (optional)
• Parchment paper (for baking)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Chopping board and knife

Instructions

1. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed and water. Stir well and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens.
2. Cook the mushrooms and onions: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add the chopped mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and become soft, around 5-7 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
3. Process the lentils and oats: In a food processor, pulse the cooked lentils and rolled oats just until combined but not too smooth. You want some texture for that perfect meatball bite.
4. Mix all ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the lentil-oat mixture, sautéed mushrooms and onions, flax egg, minced garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir thoroughly until the mixture holds together well. If it feels too wet, add a tablespoon of oats; if too dry, add a splash of water.
5. Shape the meatballs: Using your hands, form the mixture into golf ball-sized meatballs. You should get about 15-18 meatballs depending on size.
6. Cook the meatballs: Heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are browned on all sides and firm to the touch. Alternatively, you can bake them in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) on a parchment-lined baking sheet for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway through.
7. Serve and enjoy: Your vegan meatballs are now ready to be enjoyed! Toss them in your favorite sauce or enjoy as is.

Tips & Variations

“If you want a firmer texture, chill the mixture for 30 minutes before shaping the meatballs.”

• Make it gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free oats and tamari instead of soy sauce.
• Spice it up: Add chili flakes or cumin for a kick of heat and depth.
• Switch up the beans: Try black beans or chickpeas instead of lentils for a different flavor profile.
• Freeze for convenience: Freeze uncooked meatballs on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen for a quick meal.
• Use different cooking methods: These meatballs can also be air-fried or grilled for a smoky twist.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

These vegan meatballs are incredibly versatile and can be served in numerous ways. For a classic comfort meal, serve them over spaghetti or your favorite pasta with marinara sauce.

They also work wonderfully in a sub sandwich with vegan cheese and fresh basil for a hearty lunch.

Try serving them alongside garlic mashed potatoes or roasted vegetables for a filling dinner. They’re also delicious as a party appetizer with a tangy dipping sauce like vegan ranch or spicy mustard.

If you love experimenting with cuisines, pair these meatballs with a side of our Veggie Quesadilla Recipe Indian Style Easy & Delicious for an Indo-Mexican fusion meal. Or enjoy them with warm homemade tortillas from our Vegan Flour Tortilla Recipe Easy, Soft, and Homemade for a delicious wrap option.

Conclusion

This easy vegan meatballs recipe is a must-try for anyone seeking a delicious, plant-based alternative to traditional meatballs. With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s perfect for cooks of all skill levels.

The hearty lentils and mushrooms provide a satisfying texture and robust flavor, while the oats and flaxseed help bind everything together for perfect meatballs every time.

Whether you bake, fry, or simmer them in your favorite sauce, these meatballs bring comfort and nutrition to your table. Plus, they’re great for meal prep, freezer-friendly, and fully customizable to your taste preferences.

We hope this recipe inspires you to enjoy more plant-based meals that are both easy and flavorful. For more vegan cooking inspiration, check out our other recipes and happy cooking!

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