Lentil Loaf Recipe Vegetarian: Easy, Healthy, and Delicious

Lentil loaf is a classic comfort food that brings together hearty, wholesome ingredients into a satisfying vegetarian main dish. Perfectly packed with protein-rich lentils, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings, this loaf offers a delicious alternative to traditional meatloaf.

Whether you are a seasoned vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking to add more plant-based meals to your routine, this lentil loaf recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, freezes well for meal prep, and is wonderfully versatile for any occasion.

In this post, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step recipe for a flavorful lentil loaf that’s moist, rich, and completely vegetarian. Plus, I’ll share tips for variations and serving ideas to make the most of this wholesome dish.

If you love recipes featuring lentils or plant-based comfort foods, you might also enjoy Vegetarian Tex Mex Recipes for Easy Weeknight Dinners and Vegetarian Middle Eastern Recipes for Easy, Flavorful Meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This lentil loaf recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a protein-packed, nutrient-dense meal without any meat. It combines the earthy flavor of lentils with fresh vegetables and hearty breadcrumbs to create a loaf that’s both filling and delicious.

Unlike some vegetarian dishes that can be dry or crumbly, this loaf stays moist and tender thanks to the addition of flavorful tomato sauce and binding ingredients.

Another reason to love it is its versatility. You can easily customize the vegetables or spices to suit your taste, and it works well as a main dish, sandwich filling, or even as a party appetizer when sliced small.

It’s perfect for meal prep, reheats beautifully, and pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides.

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils (or 2 ½ cups cooked lentils)
• 2 ½ cups vegetable broth (for cooking lentils)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 celery stalk, finely diced
• 1 cup mushrooms, finely chopped
• 1 cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if preferred)
• 2 tablespoons ground flaxseeds mixed with 6 tablespoons water (flax egg)
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari (optional but recommended)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup ketchup or barbecue sauce (for topping)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)

Equipment

• Medium saucepan
• Large skillet or frying pan
• Mixing bowl
• 9×5 inch loaf pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Food processor (optional, for chopping mushrooms and veggies finely)
• Oven

Instructions

1. Cook the lentils: Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a medium saucepan, combine the lentils with the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
2. Prepare the flax egg: In a small bowl, mix the ground flaxseeds with water and let it sit for 5-10 minutes until it thickens to an egg-like consistency.
3. Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and mushrooms. Cook, stirring frequently, until vegetables are soft and most moisture has evaporated, about 8-10 minutes. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
4. Mix the loaf base: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils, sautéed vegetables, breadcrumbs, tomato paste, soy sauce, dried thyme, oregano, and the flax egg. Use a spoon or your hands to mix well until the mixture binds together but still holds moisture.
5. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 350°F (175°C) and grease a 9×5 inch loaf pan or line it with parchment paper.
6. Shape and fill the loaf pan: Transfer the lentil mixture into the prepared loaf pan. Press down firmly and smooth the top with the back of a spoon or spatula.
7. Add the topping: Spread ketchup or barbecue sauce evenly over the top of the loaf. This adds a lovely glaze and extra flavor.
8. Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 45-50 minutes, or until the top is set and slightly caramelized. Let it cool for 10 minutes before removing from the pan.
9. Serve and enjoy: Slice the lentil loaf into thick pieces and serve warm. It pairs wonderfully with mashed potatoes, steamed veggies, or a fresh salad.

Tips & Variations

For a gluten-free version, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats.

Feel free to swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach work great.

If you want an extra cheesy flavor, stir in some grated vegetarian cheese or nutritional yeast before baking.

Make it vegan by ensuring your ketchup or barbecue sauce is free of animal products.

Leftovers make excellent sandwiches or wraps the next day!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This lentil loaf is wonderfully versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides. For a classic comfort food experience, serve it alongside creamy mashed potatoes and steamed green beans or broccoli.

A fresh garden salad with a tangy vinaigrette also complements the loaf’s savory flavors perfectly.

For a lighter meal, slice the loaf thinly and serve it over a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of balsamic glaze. It also works great cold, perfect for packed lunches or picnic sandwiches.

If you’re interested in other vegetarian dishes that bring vibrant flavors to your table, check out Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals and Vegetable Alfredo Recipes for Creamy, Healthy Dinners.

Conclusion

This vegetarian lentil loaf recipe is a fantastic addition to any plant-based kitchen. It’s hearty, rich in flavor, and packed with nutrients that keep you satisfied.

Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, it offers an easy way to enjoy a comforting meal without relying on meat.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, even beginner cooks can master this recipe. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different veggies or seasonings to make it your own.

And remember, leftovers taste just as delicious, making it a great option for meal prep. For more tasty vegetarian recipes, explore our collection and keep your meals exciting and wholesome!

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