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A freshly baked vegan meatloaf, rich and hearty in appearance.

Classic Vegan Meatloaf

This classic vegan meatloaf is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a comforting meal. Made with lentils, mushrooms, and oats, it's a delicious plant-based alternative to traditional meatloaf.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings 6 slices
Calories 350 kcal

Equipment

  • Skillet
  • Large mixing bowl
  • 9x5-inch loaf pan

Ingredients
  

For the Loaf

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, finely chopped
  • 1 cup cooked brown or green lentils
  • 1 cup rolled oats or whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1/2 cup finely chopped walnuts optional
  • 1/4 cup flax egg 1 tbsp ground flaxseed meal + 3 tbsp water, let sit 5 mins
  • 2 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp nutritional yeast
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt to taste
  • Black pepper to taste

For the Glaze

  • 1/4 cup ketchup
  • 1 tbsp maple syrup
  • 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

Instructions
 

Loaf Preparation

  • Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Sauté the onion for 5-7 minutes until soft, then add garlic and mushrooms, cooking until liquid evaporates (8-10 minutes).
  • Combine the onion and mushroom mixture with lentils, oats (or breadcrumbs), walnuts (if using), and the prepared flax egg in a large bowl.
  • Stir in soy sauce/tamari, Dijon mustard, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, and dried thyme, then season generously with salt and pepper.
  • Mix thoroughly with your hands until the mixture is cohesive. Adjust consistency by adding more oats/breadcrumbs if too wet, or vegetable broth if too dry.
  • Press the mixture firmly into a 9x5-inch loaf pan.

Glaze and Baking

  • Whisk together ketchup, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar in a small bowl to create the glaze.
  • Spread two-thirds of the glaze over the meatloaf and bake for 40 minutes.
  • Remove from the oven, spread the remaining glaze, and bake for another 10-15 minutes until caramelized and firm.
  • Let the meatloaf rest in the pan for 10-15 minutes before slicing and serving.

Notes

For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of liquid smoke to the loaf mixture. This recipe is also great for meal prepping; slice and store individual portions for quick and easy meals throughout the week.