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Best Vegetarian Meatloaf Recipe

4.8 from 100 reviews

This best vegetarian meatloaf offers a hearty and flavorful alternative to traditional meatloaf, using seasoned vegetarian meat crumbles combined with aromatic vegetables and a tangy ketchup glaze. Baked to perfection, it’s a comforting, protein-packed dish perfect for a satisfying family meal or meal prep.

Ingredients

Scale

Meatloaf Mixture

  • 12 oz package vegetarian meat crumbles (thawed in the fridge)
  • 2 eggs
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • 1 teaspoon sage
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • 2 tablespoons vegetarian Worcestershire sauce
  • ¾ cup whole wheat breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup diced yellow onion
  • 8 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Glaze

  • ½ cup ketchup
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions

  1. Thaw the Vegetarian Meat Crumbles: Allow the vegetarian meat crumbles to thaw in the refrigerator for several hours or overnight to ensure they are fully defrosted before cooking.
  2. Sauté Garlic and Onion: Melt the butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Cook for 5-8 minutes until the onion softens and loses its crunch, developing a sweet and aromatic base.
  3. Combine Meatloaf Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, mix together the thawed vegetarian meat crumbles, eggs, Italian seasoning, sage, salt, vegetarian Worcestershire sauce, whole wheat breadcrumbs, and the sautéed garlic and onion until thoroughly combined.
  4. Form the Meatloaf: Grease a loaf pan lightly with butter or non-stick spray. Press the meatloaf mixture firmly into the loaf pan, shaping it evenly to ensure consistent cooking.
  5. Bake the Meatloaf: Place the loaf pan in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake the meatloaf for 40 minutes or until the top has browned nicely.
  6. Prepare the Glaze: While baking, combine the ketchup and brown sugar in a small bowl, mixing until smooth and well incorporated.
  7. Glaze and Continue Baking: After the initial baking, remove the meatloaf from the oven and evenly spread the ketchup and brown sugar glaze over the top. Return it to the oven and bake an additional 15-20 minutes until the glaze is bubbly around the edges.
  8. Serve: Remove the meatloaf from the oven and let it cool slightly. Slice into portions and serve warm for a delicious vegetarian main course.

Notes

  • Make sure the vegetarian meat crumbles are fully thawed to achieve the best texture.
  • Sautéing the garlic and onion softens them and boosts flavor without overpowering the dish.
  • Using whole wheat breadcrumbs adds fiber and a healthier twist.
  • The ketchup and brown sugar glaze adds a classic sweet tang that complements the savory loaf.
  • Allow the meatloaf to rest for a few minutes after baking to help it hold together when slicing.

Keywords: vegetarian meatloaf, vegetarian main dish, meatless meatloaf, healthy meatloaf, plant-based meatloaf