Vegetarian Meatloaf (Fan Favorite!)

Vegetarian Meatloaf is a delightful twist on a classic dish that everyone can enjoy. If you’re seeking a nourishing, plant-based meal, this recipe is a must-try. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it also offers a satisfying texture that will appeal to vegetarians and meat lovers alike. This fan-favorite meatloaf is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or simply as a comforting weeknight meal. With wholesome ingredients and a hearty blend of spices, it’s no wonder this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen.

What Sets This Recipe Apart

This Vegetarian Meatloaf is a celebration of flavors and textures that come together beautifully. You’ll love it for numerous reasons. First, it’s made with wholesome ingredients like brown rice, walnuts, and a variety of mushrooms, making it nutrient-dense and satisfying. Second, this dish is incredibly versatile—it can serve as a hearty main course or a side whenever you need something filling.

Imagine serving this at your next family gathering; it’s sure to win over even the staunchest of meat enthusiasts. Additionally, it’s budget-friendly, using accessible ingredients without compromising on taste. The combination of toasted nuts and cheese enhances not just the flavor but also the protein content, making it a well-rounded meal.

"This meatloaf was a hit with my entire family! Even my picky eater loved it. A great recipe to make on a Sunday afternoon!" – A happy home cook.

Step-by-Step Guide to Cooking It

Making this Vegetarian Meatloaf is straightforward and rewarding. The process involves preparing your ingredients, assembling the mixture, and baking it to perfection. In just a little over an hour, you’ll have a warm, delicious dish ready to serve.

1. Start with cooking your brown rice, using your preferred method.
2. Toast the nuts while prepping the veggies and mushrooms.
3. Combine the ingredients, fill your loaf pan, and bake until golden.
4. Allow it to cool, slice, and enjoy!

Everything You Need for This Recipe

To recreate this delicious Vegetarian Meatloaf, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice (1/2 cup dry rice)
• 1 1/2 cups walnuts
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 ounces shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
• 3 ounces baby bella mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 12 ounces Swiss cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Feel free to substitute the nuts or cheese according to your preferences or dietary needs.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Prep the rice: Cook 1/2 cup dry brown rice until you yield 1 1/2 cups cooked. Set aside.

2. Preheat oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C).

3. Toast the nuts: Place walnuts and cashews on a baking sheet. Toast for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned, then let them cool.

4. Cook the aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil. Add minced onion and garlic; cook for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add chopped mushrooms, marjoram, thyme, and sage. Cook until mushrooms become golden (around 5 minutes).

5. Combine ingredients: In a large bowl, mix the onion and mushroom mixture with the chopped nuts, cooked rice, parsley, cottage cheese, Swiss cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper.

6. Prepare the pan: Butter a 9-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour your mixture into it, smoothing the top.

7. Bake: Place the pan in the oven and bake for 1 hour, until golden brown.

8. Cool and serve: Let it cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Then, invert the loaf onto a plate, slice, and serve warm.

Serving Ideas

This Vegetarian Meatloaf is delicious on its own but can be enhanced with various sides. Consider serving it with creamy mashed potatoes, a fresh garden salad, or steamed vegetables for a balanced meal. A tangy tomato sauce or a drizzle of balsamic glaze on top can elevate the flavors even more.

Best Way to Store Vegetarian Meatloaf (Fan Favorite!)

If you have leftovers—or want to make ahead—this meatloaf stores well. To keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to four days.
• Freeze: Cut into slices and freeze for up to three months.

To reheat, place in a preheated 375°F oven for about 25–30 minutes or until warmed through.

Expert Advice

• Add More Vegetables: Want to boost the veggie count? Feel free to add chopped bell peppers, grated carrots, or even spinach to the mix for extra nutrients and flavor.

• Make It Vegan: To make this recipe vegan, substitute the eggs with flax eggs (1 tablespoon ground flaxseed + 2.5 tablespoons water per egg) and use a dairy-free cheese option.

• Experiment with Spices: If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding smoked paprika or chili flakes for a little kick.

Creative Twists

Get creative with this recipe! You can easily customize your Vegetarian Meatloaf:

• Change the Nuts: Substitute almonds or pecans for a different nutty flavor.

• Cheese Options: Switch Swiss cheese for cheddar or mozzarella, depending on your preference.

• Herb Variations: Swap dried thyme and sage for fresh herbs for a more vibrant taste.

Your Questions Answered

What is the prep time for this recipe?
Prep time is about 30 minutes, with baking taking an additional hour.

Can I use brown rice that’s already cooked?
Absolutely! In fact, this recipe works great with leftover brown rice from previous meals.

How do I know when the meatloaf is done?
Look for a golden brown top and a firm texture in the center. You can also use a meat thermometer; it should read at least 160°F (71°C).

With this Vegetarian Meatloaf, you’ll have a fulfilling dish that satisfies cravings and nourishes bodies. So why not give it a try? You may discover your new favorite meatless meal!

Vegetarian Meatloaf

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• Total Time: 90 minutes
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

A delightful twist on a classic dish, this hearty Vegetarian Meatloaf is packed with flavor and satisfying textures, perfect for vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 1/2 cups cooked brown rice (1/2 cup dry rice)
• 1 1/2 cups walnuts
• 1/2 cup cashews
• 1 yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 ounces shiitake mushrooms, finely chopped
• 3 ounces baby bella mushrooms, finely chopped
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 4 large eggs, lightly beaten
• 1 cup cottage cheese
• 12 ounces Swiss cheese, grated
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

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Instructions

1. Cook 1/2 cup dry brown rice until you yield 1 1/2 cups cooked. Set aside.
2. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Toast walnuts and cashews on a baking sheet for 8-10 minutes until lightly browned, then let cool.
4. In a skillet, heat olive oil and cook onion and garlic for about 3 minutes until translucent. Add mushrooms, marjoram, thyme, and sage, cooking until mushrooms are golden (around 5 minutes).
5. In a large bowl, combine the onion and mushroom mixture with chopped nuts, cooked rice, parsley, cottage cheese, Swiss cheese, beaten eggs, salt, and pepper.
6. Butter a 9-inch loaf pan and line it with parchment paper. Pour the mixture into the pan and smooth the top.
7. Bake in the oven for 1 hour until golden brown.
8. Let cool in the pan for 20 minutes. Invert onto a plate, slice, and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to add more vegetables or substitute nuts and cheese to fit dietary needs.

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 5g
• Sodium: 400mg
• Fat: 12g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 45g
• Fiber: 6g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg

Keywords: vegetarian meatloaf, plant-based, healthy recipe, comfort food