This Vegan Lentil Loaf is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful plant-based alternative to traditional Easter mains. Made with protein-rich lentils, oats, and vegetables, this loaf is packed with savory goodness. The smoky-sweet ketchup glaze adds the perfect finishing touch, making this dish a satisfying centerpiece for any Easter dinner. Serve it with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad for a wholesome and delicious holiday meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Perfect for Easter – A satisfying, meat-free main course for holiday gatherings.
- Hearty and Filling – Lentils, oats, and walnuts provide plenty of protein and texture.
- Savory and Flavorful – A mix of herbs, spices, and a sweet-tangy glaze enhances every bite.
- Easy to Prepare – Uses simple pantry ingredients and minimal effort.
- Gluten-Free Option – Swap breadcrumbs for gluten-free crumbs or ground oats.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
Lentil Loaf:
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- ½ cup rolled oats
- ½ cup breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, grated
- ¼ cup walnuts, chopped (optional)
- 2 tbsp ground flaxseed + 6 tbsp water (flax egg)
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- Salt & pepper to taste
Glaze:
- ¼ cup ketchup
- 1 tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
Directions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a loaf pan with parchment paper.
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat a pan over medium heat and cook the onion, garlic, and grated carrot until softened.
- Prepare the mixture: In a large bowl, slightly mash the cooked lentils, then mix in oats, breadcrumbs, walnuts, flax egg, soy sauce, mustard, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
- Shape and bake: Press the mixture firmly into the lined loaf pan and bake for 30 minutes.
- Make the glaze: In a small bowl, mix ketchup, maple syrup, and apple cider vinegar.
- Glaze and finish baking: Spread the glaze evenly over the loaf and bake for another 15 minutes.
- Cool and serve: Let the loaf cool slightly before slicing. Serve warm with cranberry sauce or a fresh salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 6-8
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Variations
- Nut-Free Version – Omit walnuts or replace them with sunflower seeds for a nut-free alternative.
- Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or ground oats instead of regular breadcrumbs.
- Spicy Lentil Loaf – Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- BBQ-Style Glaze – Replace ketchup with BBQ sauce for a smoky twist.
- Mushroom Lentil Loaf – Add finely chopped mushrooms for a deeper, umami flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 10-15 minutes or microwave in short intervals.
- Freezing: Wrap slices tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
FAQs
Can I make this lentil loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the loaf mixture, press it into the pan, and refrigerate it overnight before baking.
What type of lentils should I use?
Brown or green lentils work best as they hold their shape well. Avoid red lentils, as they become too soft.
Can I use a different binder instead of flaxseed?
Yes, you can use chia seeds or store-bought egg replacer as an alternative.
How do I make this loaf extra firm?
Press the mixture firmly into the pan and allow the loaf to cool slightly before slicing.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, substitute fresh thyme for dried thyme at a 3:1 ratio.
What can I serve with lentil loaf?
Mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad pair well with this dish.
How do I prevent the loaf from being too dry?
Ensure the mixture is moist before baking. If it looks too dry, add a tablespoon of vegetable broth or extra soy sauce.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, simply double the ingredients and use a larger loaf pan or bake in two smaller pans.
Can I bake this without a loaf pan?
Yes, you can shape the mixture into a loaf on a parchment-lined baking sheet.
Is this lentil loaf suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! It stores well and makes for a great make-ahead meal.
Conclusion
This Vegan Lentil Loaf is a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying main dish that’s perfect for Easter or any special occasion. Packed with plant-based protein, wholesome ingredients, and a tangy-sweet glaze, it’s a delicious and nutritious alternative to traditional meatloaf. Serve it with your favorite sides, and enjoy a comforting, holiday-worthy meal!
