Are you ready to discover a deliciously satisfying dish that will make you forget all about traditional meatloaf? Our Almost Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf is not only packed with flavor, but it’s also a wholesome, plant-based alternative that will impress both vegans and meat-lovers alike! With a perfect blend of chickpeas, veggies, and spices, this hearty meatloaf is sure to become a family favorite. Plus, it’s easy to make and takes just an hour from start to finish! Dive into this recipe and transform your dinner table with a twist on a classic comfort food that’s both nutritious and delightful!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 can chickpeas, drained and mashed
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/2 cup onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup carrots, grated
- 2 tbsp ketchup
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a standard loaf pan with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, thoroughly mash the drained chickpeas using a fork or potato masher until they form a coarse, slightly chunky texture.
- Add chopped onions, grated carrots, breadcrumbs, ketchup, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined.
- Using your hands or a spatula, press the mixture firmly into the prepared loaf pan, ensuring an even distribution and compact formation.
- Optional: Spread an extra layer of ketchup or a homemade glaze on top of the loaf for added flavor and moisture.
- Place the loaf pan in the preheated oven and bake for 40-45 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the edges are slightly crispy.
- Remove from the oven and let the meatloaf cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes to help it set and make slicing easier.
- Carefully remove the meatloaf from the pan, slice into portions, and serve warm with your favorite sides like roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes.
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, you can mash the chickpeas and chop the vegetables a day in advance. Just store them in the fridge until you’re ready to mix and bake!
- Texture Matters: For a more textured meatloaf, don’t mash the chickpeas too finely. Leaving some chunks will give your loaf a heartier bite.
- Add Extra Flavor: Feel free to experiment with spices! Adding garlic powder, smoked paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavor profile.
- Customize Your Veggies: Swap out the grated carrots for zucchini or bell peppers to suit your taste or to use up what you have on hand.
- Don’t Skip the Resting Time: Allowing the meatloaf to cool in the pan for 10-15 minutes after baking helps it hold its shape and makes slicing much easier.
- Perfect Pairings: Serve your chickpea meatloaf with roasted vegetables, a fresh salad, or creamy mashed potatoes for a complete meal that’s sure to please everyone.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 180kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 8g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
