If you’re looking to enjoy a comforting classic with a wholesome vegetarian twist, this black bean meatloaf recipe is your new go-to dish. Packed with protein-rich black beans and hearty vegetables, this meatloaf delivers all the satisfying texture and flavor of traditional meatloaf without any meat.
Whether you’re a vegetarian, trying to eat more plant-based meals, or simply want to try something new, this recipe is easy to prepare and versatile enough to please the whole family.
The combination of black beans, oats, and a flavorful blend of spices creates a moist, savory loaf that holds together perfectly. Plus, the tangy glaze on top adds just the right touch of sweetness and acidity.
Serve it with your favorite sides, and you have a nutritious meal that’s as delicious as it is comforting.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This vegetarian black bean meatloaf is more than just a meatless alternative—it’s a deliciously hearty meal that ticks all the boxes. It’s high in fiber and protein, making it filling and nourishing.
The use of everyday pantry staples means you can whip it up any night of the week without a special trip to the store.
It’s also incredibly adaptable. You can customize the spices and vegetables to suit your tastes, and the leftovers make fantastic sandwiches the next day.
For those who enjoy experimenting with flavors, try pairing it with some vibrant sauces like the Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe or a fresh salsa.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small bell pepper, finely chopped (any color)
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- 3 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup ketchup (for glaze)
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar (for glaze)
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar (for glaze)
Equipment
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor or potato masher
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Baking loaf pan (8×4 inch recommended)
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Oven
- Small bowl for glaze
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease your loaf pan or line it with parchment paper for easy removal.
- Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water. Stir well and let it sit for about 10 minutes until it thickens.
- Process the black beans: In a food processor, pulse the black beans a few times until partially mashed. You want some texture, so don’t puree completely. If you don’t have a food processor, mash the beans with a potato masher or fork.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of oil and sauté the onion, bell pepper, garlic, and grated carrot for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant. Allow to cool slightly.
- Combine the mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the mashed black beans, sautéed veggies, rolled oats, flax egg, tomato paste, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon or spatula until everything is evenly incorporated.
- Transfer the mixture to the prepared loaf pan and press down firmly to form an even loaf.
- Prepare the glaze: In a small bowl, mix together the ketchup, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar. Spread this glaze evenly over the top of the meatloaf.
- Bake the meatloaf in the preheated oven for 45-50 minutes, or until the edges are firm and the glaze is slightly caramelized.
- Remove from oven and let the meatloaf cool for about 10 minutes before slicing. This helps it hold together better.
Tips & Variations
“For a nutty crunch, consider adding 1/4 cup chopped walnuts or pecans to the mixture before baking.”
If you want to make this recipe gluten-free, substitute rolled oats with certified gluten-free oats or use ground almonds. You can also swap soy sauce with coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.
Add some heat by mixing in a diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne pepper. For a smoky depth, a dash of liquid smoke works wonders.
To boost the umami flavor, stir in 2 tablespoons of nutritional yeast or your favorite vegan cheese before baking.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 230 |
Protein | 12g |
Carbohydrates | 35g |
Dietary Fiber | 9g |
Fat | 3.5g |
Sodium | 420mg |
Sugar | 7g |
Serving Suggestions
Serve your black bean meatloaf slices warm alongside mashed potatoes or creamy polenta for a classic comfort food combo. Roasted vegetables or a fresh green salad makes a wonderful, light side.
For an extra indulgent meal, drizzle some Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe over the top or serve with a dollop of tangy vegan sour cream.
Leftover slices are perfect for sandwiches or wraps. Add some crisp lettuce, sliced tomato, and a smear of your favorite condiment for an easy lunch option.
Conclusion
This vegetarian black bean meatloaf recipe is a fantastic way to bring a healthy, protein-packed, and flavorful dish to your table without compromising on comfort or taste. Easy to prepare and fully customizable, it’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights or casual weekend dinners.
The combination of beans, oats, and vibrant vegetables creates a satisfying texture, while the tangy glaze adds the perfect finishing touch. We hope this recipe inspires you to enjoy more plant-based meals and impress your family and friends with something both nourishing and delicious.
For more comforting and creative recipes, check out our Chocolate Heaven Cake Recipe for an indulgent dessert or try the refreshing Chipotle Black Beans And Rice Recipe for a smoky side dish.
📖 Recipe Card: Black Bean Meatloaf Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian meatloaf made with black beans and vegetables. Perfect as a comforting main dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT50M
Total Time: PT1H10M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup grated carrot
- 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Mash black beans in a large bowl until mostly smooth.
- Add breadcrumbs, onion, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic; mix well.
- Stir in flaxseed mixture, ketchup, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Press mixture into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.
- Bake for 50 minutes until firm and cooked through.
- Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.
Nutrition: Calories: 220 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 4 g | Carbs: 35 g
{“@context”: “https://schema.org/”, “@type”: “Recipe”, “name”: “Black Bean Meatloaf Recipe Vegetarian”, “image”: [], “author”: {“@type”: “Organization”, “name”: “GluttonLv”}, “description”: “A hearty and flavorful vegetarian meatloaf made with black beans and vegetables. Perfect as a comforting main dish that\u2019s both nutritious and delicious.”, “prepTime”: “PT20M”, “cookTime”: “PT50M”, “totalTime”: “PT1H10M”, “recipeYield”: “6 servings”, “recipeIngredient”: [“2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, drained and rinsed”, “1 cup breadcrumbs”, “1/2 cup finely chopped onion”, “1/2 cup grated carrot”, “1/4 cup chopped bell pepper”, “2 cloves garlic, minced”, “2 tablespoons ground flaxseed mixed with 6 tablespoons water”, “1/4 cup ketchup”, “2 tablespoons soy sauce”, “1 teaspoon smoked paprika”, “1/2 teaspoon cumin”, “Salt and pepper to taste”], “recipeInstructions”: [{“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Preheat oven to 375\u00b0F (190\u00b0C).”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Mash black beans in a large bowl until mostly smooth.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Add breadcrumbs, onion, carrot, bell pepper, and garlic; mix well.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Stir in flaxseed mixture, ketchup, soy sauce, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Press mixture into a loaf pan lined with parchment paper.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Bake for 50 minutes until firm and cooked through.”}, {“@type”: “HowToStep”, “text”: “Let cool for 10 minutes before slicing and serving.”}], “nutrition”: {“calories”: “220 kcal”, “proteinContent”: “12 g”, “fatContent”: “4 g”, “carbohydrateContent”: “35 g”}}