Lasagna is a timeless comfort food that everyone loves, but for vegetarians craving a meaty texture, it can sometimes feel like a challenge. Enter TVP, or textured vegetable protein – an incredible plant-based ingredient that mimics the bite and flavor of ground meat without any animal products.
This meaty TVP vegetarian lasagna recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy the classic layers of rich tomato sauce, creamy cheese, and perfectly cooked pasta with a wholesome, protein-packed twist.
Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your diet, this lasagna will satisfy your cravings while keeping things healthy and hearty. Plus, it’s packed with layers of flavor and nutrition that will impress even meat-eaters at your table.
Ready to dive into a delicious, easy-to-make vegetarian lasagna? Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe combines the best of both worlds: the comforting flavors of traditional lasagna and the nutritious, plant-based benefits of TVP. TVP soaks up the tomato sauce beautifully, giving you that savory, meaty texture without any guilt.
It’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize with your favorite veggies or cheese alternatives. The recipe is also budget-friendly and quick to prepare compared to classic meat lasagnas.
Perfect for meal prepping or feeding a crowd, it’s sure to become a staple in your vegetarian recipe collection.
Plus, if you love creamy sauces, you might want to check out our Vegan Bechamel Sauce Recipe for Creamy Pasta Dishes to add an extra luscious layer!
Ingredients
Ingredient | Quantity |
---|---|
TVP (Textured Vegetable Protein) | 1 1/2 cups |
Vegetable broth (for soaking TVP) | 2 cups |
Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
Onion, finely chopped | 1 medium |
Garlic cloves, minced | 3 cloves |
Carrot, diced | 1 medium |
Celery stalk, diced | 1 stalk |
Crushed tomatoes | 28 oz (1 can) |
Tomato paste | 2 tablespoons |
Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
Dried basil | 1 teaspoon |
Salt | To taste |
Black pepper | To taste |
Lasagna noodles (regular or no-boil) | 9-12 sheets |
Ricotta cheese | 1 1/2 cups |
Shredded mozzarella cheese | 2 cups |
Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/2 cup |
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) | 2 tablespoons |
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Medium saucepan
- Large skillet or frying pan
- 9×13 inch baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Aluminum foil
- Colander (if using regular noodles)
Instructions
- Prepare the TVP: In a large bowl, pour the vegetable broth over the TVP and let it soak for 10 minutes until softened. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
- Make the sauce base: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Combine TVP and seasonings: Add the rehydrated TVP to the skillet. Stir well to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Cook for 3-4 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add tomato ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Stir thoroughly. Sprinkle in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer on low heat for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) to get it ready for baking the lasagna.
- Prepare noodles: If using regular lasagna noodles, cook them according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and lay them flat on a clean kitchen towel to prevent sticking.
- Mix the ricotta layer: In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese with chopped parsley (if using) and a pinch of salt and pepper.
- Assemble the lasagna: Spread a thin layer of the TVP tomato sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. Place a layer of noodles over the sauce. Spread one-third of the ricotta mixture over the noodles, followed by one-third of the TVP sauce, and sprinkle with shredded mozzarella. Repeat layering two more times, finishing with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top.
- Cover and bake: Cover the baking dish tightly with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes. Then remove the foil and bake for another 15 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Rest and serve: Let the lasagna rest for 10-15 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes serving easier.
Tips & Variations
For an extra creamy texture, try layering in some of our Vegan Bechamel Sauce between the noodles and sauce.
If you want to boost the veggie content, add finely chopped mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce along with the TVP.
For a soy-free option, substitute TVP with cooked lentils or finely chopped walnuts for a different but equally delicious texture.
Use no-boil noodles to save time, but ensure your sauce is slightly more liquidy to allow the noodles to cook properly in the oven.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Per Serving (1/8th lasagna) |
---|---|
Calories | 320 |
Protein | 22g |
Carbohydrates | 30g |
Fat | 10g |
Fiber | 6g |
Sodium | 480mg |
Calcium | 250mg |
Serving Suggestions
This meaty TVP vegetarian lasagna pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette or a simple garlic bread side for an extra indulgence. Roasted or steamed vegetables like broccoli, green beans, or asparagus complement the rich flavors and add freshness to your meal.
If you want to explore more vegetable-packed dishes, check out our Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals or warm up with a comforting bowl of Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating.
Conclusion
This meaty TVP vegetarian lasagna is the perfect solution for anyone craving the satisfying layers of traditional lasagna without the meat. The TVP provides an excellent plant-based protein that soaks up rich tomato flavors, while the combination of creamy ricotta and melty mozzarella cheeses creates that classic lasagna indulgence.
Not only is it delicious and filling, but it’s also simple to prepare and versatile enough to adapt to your favorite vegetables or cheese alternatives. Whether for a family dinner, meal prep, or feeding a group, this recipe is guaranteed to satisfy all year round.
Be sure to give it a try and explore more tasty vegetarian recipes like our Best Italian Vegetarian Recipes for Delicious Meatless for even more inspiration!
📖 Recipe Card: About Food Meaty TVP Vegetarian Lasagna
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian lasagna using textured vegetable protein (TVP) to mimic the meaty texture. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a plant-based comfort meal.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT45M
Total Time: PT65M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup textured vegetable protein (TVP)
- 1 1/2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 9 lasagna noodles, cooked and drained
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Rehydrate TVP in warm vegetable broth for 10 minutes.
- Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic until translucent.
- Add rehydrated TVP and marinara sauce, cook for 10 minutes.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in a baking dish.
- Layer 3 lasagna noodles, half the TVP sauce, half the ricotta, and some mozzarella.
- Repeat layering once more.
- Top with remaining noodles, sauce, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese.
- Cover with foil and bake for 30 minutes.
- Remove foil and bake an additional 15 minutes until cheese is bubbly.
- Let sit 10 minutes before serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 350 kcal | Protein: 25 g | Fat: 12 g | Carbs: 35 g
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