🍽️ Cozy Vegan “Meat” Loaf

Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins | Prep: 15 mins | Cook: 55 mins | Serves: 6

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Okay, hear me out—this vegan “meat” loaf is that girl. She’s hearty, juicy, and full of flavor without the mystery ingredients or greasy pan mess. The texture? Firm but tender. The flavor? Savory with that perfect umami punch. The glaze? Sweet, tangy, and just the right amount of sticky. My family devours this one every time—no leftovers, no regrets.

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🛒 Ingredients

For the Loaf:

• 2 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (baby bella or cremini)

• 1 cup cooked lentils (green or brown)

• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained & rinsed

• 1 cup rolled oats (or breadcrumbs)

• 2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 5 tbsp water (flax “egg”)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos)

• 1 tbsp vegan Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika

• 1 tsp thyme

• 1 tsp sage

• ½ tsp black pepper

  
  
  

• Salt to taste

For the Glaze:

• 3 tbsp ketchup

• 1 tbsp maple syrup

• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F and line a loaf pan with parchment paper.

2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and mushrooms until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes.

3. In a food processor, combine lentils, chickpeas, oats, flax “egg,” tomato paste, soy sauce, Worcestershire, and spices. Pulse until mostly smooth but still a little textured.

4. Add in the cooked veggies and pulse a few more times to combine.

5. Press the mixture firmly into your prepared loaf pan.

6. Mix glaze ingredients in a small bowl, then spread evenly over the top.

7. Bake for 45–50 minutes, until firm and slightly browned at the edges.

8. Let rest for 10–15 minutes before slicing (trust me—it sets as it cools).

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🧠 Mom Tips

• 🧤 Make this ahead: It freezes and reheats like a dream.

• 🍄 No food processor? Mash everything with a potato masher and a little elbow grease.

• 💅 Want it extra juicy? Add a tablespoon of BBQ sauce to the glaze.

• 🍞 Serve it up with mashed potatoes and green beans for that classic Sunday vibe.

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🥣 Why I Love It

Because it’s comfort food with a conscience. This vegan loaf gives you all the cozy nostalgia of traditional meatloaf—without the heaviness. It’s perfect for family dinners, holidays, or just a random Wednesday when you wanna feel like a kitchen boss. Plus, even the pickiest eaters will come back for seconds.

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