Easy Veggie Meatloaf Recipe
If you’re searching for a satisfying, nutritious, and mouthwateringly good veggie meatloaf, you’re in for a treat. This recipe is packed with wholesome vegetables, protein-rich lentils, savory seasonings, and a tangy glaze that will make even the most loyal carnivores ask for seconds. Whether you’re vegetarian, trying to eat more plant-based meals, or simply looking for a cozy comfort dish, this veggie meatloaf recipe delivers big-time flavor without the meat.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Veggie Meatloaf Recipe
Unlike some plant-based recipes that fall flat on flavor or texture, this veggie meatloaf is hearty, moist, and deliciously savory with just the right amount of crunch on the outside. It’s easy to make, totally customizable, and holds its shape beautifully when sliced—perfect for dinner and even better the next day.
It’s also:
- Packed with protein and fiber
- Loaded with vegetables
- Budget-friendly
- Perfect for meal prep
- Family-approved and freezer-friendly
Ingredients for Veggie Meatloaf
Here’s everything you’ll need to bring your veggie meatloaf to life. These ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores and can be substituted if needed.
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup dry green or brown lentils (or 2 ½ cups cooked)
- 3 cups water or vegetable broth (for cooking lentils)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (button or cremini work great)
- 1 cup grated carrot
- 1 cup finely chopped celery
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- ½ cup old-fashioned oats
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (regular or gluten-free)
- ¼ cup ground flaxseed (or 1 egg if not vegan)
- ¼ cup ketchup (for inside the loaf)
Glaze Topping
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup or brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ½ teaspoon apple cider vinegar
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Veggie Meatloaf
Follow these steps to create a foolproof, delicious veggie meatloaf from scratch.
Step 1: Cook the Lentils
- Rinse 1 cup of lentils under cold water.
- In a medium pot, combine the lentils and 3 cups of water or broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until tender but not mushy.
- Drain any excess liquid and set aside to cool slightly.
Tip: You can cook the lentils ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the garlic, mushrooms, carrots, and celery.
- Season with salt, pepper, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Cook for another 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are soft and most of the moisture is cooked off.
- Add soy sauce and stir well.
Step 3: Combine and Mix
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked lentils and sautéed veggies.
- Add oats, breadcrumbs, flaxseed, and ¼ cup ketchup.
- Mix thoroughly with a spoon or your hands. The mixture should be thick and hold together when pressed.
Optional: Pulse the mixture briefly in a food processor for a smoother texture. Just be careful not to over-process—you want some texture left.
Step 4: Shape the Loaf
- Line a loaf pan with parchment paper or lightly grease it.
- Press the mixture firmly into the pan, smoothing the top with a spatula.
Step 5: Add the Glaze
- In a small bowl, mix together the glaze ingredients: ketchup, maple syrup, mustard, and vinegar.
- Spread evenly over the top of the loaf.
Step 6: Bake
- Bake the loaf uncovered for 45–50 minutes.
- Let it cool in the pan for at least 10–15 minutes before slicing.
Tips and Variations
Make It Gluten-Free
Use gluten-free oats and breadcrumbs to keep this recipe 100% gluten-free without sacrificing texture.
Make It Vegan
The base recipe is vegan as written, using flaxseed as a binder. You can also use chia seeds or a store-bought egg replacer if preferred.
Change the Veggies
No mushrooms? Sub with zucchini, eggplant, or bell peppers. Just make sure to sauté out the extra water.
Spice It Up
Add chili flakes, cumin, or your favorite hot sauce to give your veggie meatloaf a spicy kick.
Cheesy Version
Mix in ½ cup of shredded cheese (like sharp cheddar or vegan cheese) for added richness.
Nuts & Seeds
Chopped walnuts or sunflower seeds add a lovely crunch and extra protein.
How to Store and Reheat Veggie Meatloaf
This recipe makes great leftovers!
- Fridge: Store slices in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Wrap individual slices or the whole loaf in foil and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To Reheat: Warm slices in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes or microwave for 1–2 minutes until heated through.
Meal Prep Idea: Make a double batch, slice one, and freeze the other for quick weekday dinners.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this delicious veggie meatloaf with:
- Mashed potatoes and green beans
- A crisp garden salad
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Sautéed spinach or kale
- Brown rice and mushroom gravy
Tip: Leftover slices make a killer veggie meatloaf sandwich—just add lettuce, tomato, and your favorite spread.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Servings
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Cooling Time: 10–15 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour 30 minutes
- Servings: 6–8 slices
Conclusion: A Veggie Meatloaf Worth Making Again and Again
This veggie meatloaf recipe is everything you want in a hearty, plant-based main dish: flavorful, filling, and easy to make. Whether you’re planning a cozy dinner, meal prepping for the week, or cooking for guests, this recipe is a go-to for anyone who loves comforting food made with real ingredients.
Try it once, and chances are, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your dinner rotation. Don’t forget to get creative with the spices and veggies—it’s a flexible recipe that welcomes experimentation. Happy cooking!
