All Recipes Vegetarian Meatloaf Made Easy and Delicious

Updated On: October 4, 2025

If you’re looking to enjoy a comforting classic without compromising your vegetarian lifestyle, this All Recipes Vegetarian Meatloaf is just what you need. Combining wholesome ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and hearty vegetables, this meatloaf offers all the savory satisfaction of the traditional dish, but with a plant-based twist.

Ideal for family dinners or meal prepping, it’s easy to make and packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or simply want to add more meatless meals to your repertoire, this recipe will have you coming back for seconds.

Beyond just being delicious, this vegetarian meatloaf is versatile and can be customized with your favorite herbs and spices. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in extra veggies for those picky eaters at home.

So, get ready to roll up your sleeves and create a dish that’s as nourishing as it is tasty!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian meatloaf is a crowd-pleaser that marries texture and flavor beautifully. You’ll love it because:

  • Hearty and filling: Packed with protein-rich lentils and fiber-loaded veggies, it keeps you satisfied for hours.
  • Easy to prepare: No fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—just simple steps that anyone can follow.
  • Customizable: Add your favorite spices, nuts, or even cheese to make it your own.
  • Freezer-friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later in the week.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried brown lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 2 ½ cups vegetable broth
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)
  • 1 cup grated carrot
  • 1 cup rolled oats
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
  • 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ½ cup ketchup (for topping)
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar (for topping)

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Loaf pan (8×4 inch recommended)
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Fine mesh strainer
  • Oven

Instructions

  1. Cook the lentils: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Sauté the vegetables: While the lentils cook, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of olive oil, then sauté the chopped onion, garlic, and mushrooms until softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the grated carrot and cook another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.
  3. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine ground flaxseed with water. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to an egg-like consistency.
  4. Mix the meatloaf base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the flax egg and mix thoroughly until everything is well incorporated.
  5. Shape the loaf: Transfer the mixture into a greased 8×4 inch loaf pan, pressing down firmly to shape it evenly.
  6. Prepare the topping: In a small bowl, mix ketchup and brown sugar. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the loaf.
  7. Bake: Place the loaf pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is caramelized and the loaf is firm to touch.
  8. Cool and serve: Let the meatloaf cool in the pan for 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it set and makes slicing easier.

Tips & Variations

“For a nutty crunch, try folding in ½ cup of chopped walnuts or pecans before baking.”

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture.

You can replace the lentils with cooked quinoa or chickpeas for a different protein boost.

For a gluten-free version, substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free oats.

To add a cheesy twist, mix in ½ cup of shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese into the loaf mixture.

Make it spicy by adding chopped jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 220 kcal
Protein 12 g
Carbohydrates 32 g
Dietary Fiber 9 g
Fat 4 g
Saturated Fat 0.5 g
Sodium 450 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian meatloaf pairs beautifully with a range of sides. For a classic comfort meal, serve it alongside mashed potatoes and steamed green beans.

Roasted root vegetables or a fresh garden salad also complement the rich flavors of the loaf perfectly.

For a lighter option, slice the meatloaf and serve it over a bed of sautéed spinach or mixed greens.

Don’t forget a drizzle of extra ketchup or your favorite vegan gravy for an indulgent finish.

If you love hearty, plant-based dishes, you might also enjoy our Bread And Gravy Recipe for a cozy meal or the Blackstone Lo Mein Recipes for a flavorful stir-fry twist. To start your day right, try the Breakfast Wellington Recipe for a savory morning treat.

Conclusion

This All Recipes Vegetarian Meatloaf is a perfect example of how wholesome ingredients can come together to create a dish that satisfies both the soul and the palate. It’s a versatile, nutritious, and delicious option that can easily become a staple in your meal rotation.

Whether you’re cooking for vegetarians or simply want to try something new, this meatloaf delivers comfort food vibes without any meat.

Its rich flavors, hearty texture, and simple preparation make it an excellent choice for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Plus, with the ability to customize and adapt the recipe to your taste, you can make it uniquely yours every time.

Give it a try, and you might just find your new favorite meatloaf alternative!

📖 Recipe Card: All Recipes Vegetarian Meatloaf

Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian meatloaf made with lentils and vegetables. Perfect as a comforting main dish for any meal.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT60M
Total Time: PT80M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 1 cup dried brown lentils
  • 2 1/2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup finely chopped onion
  • 1 cup finely chopped bell pepper
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 eggs, beaten
  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Rinse lentils and combine with water in a pot; bring to a boil and simmer until tender, about 25 minutes.
  3. Drain lentils and mash slightly.
  4. Heat olive oil in a pan; sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic until soft.
  5. In a large bowl, combine cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, eggs, ketchup, soy sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  6. Mix thoroughly and shape into a loaf on a lined baking sheet.
  7. Bake for 55-60 minutes until firm and browned on top.
  8. Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 250 kcal | Protein: 15 g | Fat: 6 g | Carbs: 35 g

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Marta K

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