Vegetarian Lentil Loaf Recipe
A hearty and protein-packed vegetarian lentil loaf that’s full of flavor and texture. This dish uses nutritious lentils, oats, and a blend of sautéed vegetables and spices, baked to golden perfection. Perfect as a meatless main course for any occasion.
- Author: Maya
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked lentils
- 1 cup rolled oats
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the lentil loaf.
- Sauté Vegetables: In a pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, grated carrots, and minced garlic, and sauté for about 5 minutes or until the vegetables are soft and fragrant.
- Mash Lentils: In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils with a fork or potato masher, leaving some chunks for added texture in the loaf.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the sautéed vegetables, rolled oats, ground flaxseed, ketchup, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the mashed lentils. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined.
- Shape Loaf: Press the mixture firmly into a greased loaf pan, shaping it evenly to form a loaf.
- Add Topping: For extra flavor and a glossy finish, spread some additional ketchup over the top of the lentil mixture.
- Bake: Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- Cool and Serve: Remove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes to allow it to set and hold together better before slicing and serving.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, omit flaxseed or substitute with ground chia seeds.
- You can add chopped mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor.
- Serve with a side of steamed vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheat slices gently in the oven or microwave before serving.
Keywords: vegetarian lentil loaf, lentil loaf recipe, meatless main dish, healthy vegetarian recipe, baked lentil loaf