Description
This Vegan Lentil Meatloaf is hearty, savory, and packed with plant-based protein. Made with lentils, vegetables, oats, and spices, it bakes into a sliceable, satisfying loaf topped with a tangy balsamic ketchup glaze. Perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or holiday gatherings, it’s a meatless main dish that even non-vegans will enjoy.
Ingredients
Scale
For the Loaf:
- 2 cups (400g) cooked green or brown lentils (avoid red lentils)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or avocado oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce or coconut aminos
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 1/2 cups (120g) rolled oats
- 1/2 cup (60g) oat flour or finely ground oats
For the Glaze:
- 1/4 cup (60g) ketchup
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
Instructions
- Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C) and line a 9×5-inch loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Cook vegetables: Heat oil in a skillet. Sauté onion, carrots, celery, and red bell pepper for 7–10 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Season: Stir in tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and spices. Cook another 2 minutes, then remove from heat.
- Process: Add lentils to a food processor and pulse. Add cooked veggies, oats, and oat flour. Pulse until combined but not mushy.
- Fill pan: Press mixture firmly into loaf pan and smooth the top.
- Glaze: Mix ketchup, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup. Spread over the top of the loaf.
- Bake: Bake for 45–55 minutes. Let cool 15–20 minutes before slicing.
Notes
- Avoid red lentils—they are too soft and won’t hold structure.
- Do not over-process the mixture; keep some texture.
- Firmly press the mixture into the pan for a sliceable loaf.
- Let it cool before slicing to prevent crumbling.
- Double the glaze for extra flavor.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegan
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 slice
Keywords: Vegan Lentil Meatloaf, Plant-Based Meatloaf, Lentil Loaf Recipe, Vegetarian Dinner Ideas, Healthy Vegan Recipes