Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe
Whip up easy vegan spaghetti and meatballs with lentils, oats, and marinara—perfect for a quick, hearty, plant-based dinner in under 1 hour.
Ingredients
For the Vegan Meatballs:
- 1 ½ cups cooked lentils green or brown
- ½ cup rolled oats or breadcrumbs
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for pan-frying or brushing before baking
For the Marinara Sauce:
- 2 cups marinara sauce store-bought or homemade
- Optional: pinch of chili flakes or fresh basil for extra flavor
For the Spaghetti:
- 8 ounces dried spaghetti
- Salt for pasta water
- 1 teaspoon olive oil optional, for tossing pasta
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Mixture
- In a large bowl, mash the cooked lentils using a fork or potato masher until mostly smooth but still a bit chunky. Add in the oats or breadcrumbs, chopped onion, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Let the mixture rest in the fridge for about 20 minutes to firm up.
Step 2: Shape and Cook the Meatballs
- Once chilled, roll the mixture into small balls (about 1 inch in diameter).
- To bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C), place meatballs on a lined baking sheet, lightly brush with olive oil, and bake for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
- To pan-fry: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook the meatballs for 8–10 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides.
- To air fry: Air fry at 375°F for 15 minutes, shaking halfway through.
Step 3: Heat the Sauce
- While the meatballs cook, warm marinara sauce in a saucepan over low heat. Add chili flakes or basil if desired. Let it simmer gently.
Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to the package instructions, usually 8–10 minutes. Drain and toss with a touch of olive oil if needed.
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Plate the spaghetti, ladle warm marinara sauce over it, and top with your cooked vegan meatballs. Garnish with fresh basil or vegan parmesan if you like.