This Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a game-changer! Packed with plant-based goodness, this dish will have you craving seconds without missing the meat. It’s everything you love about traditional spaghetti and meatballs but without any animal products. With simple ingredients and a flavor-packed sauce, this dish comes together in no time. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a casual dinner with friends.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: You can get this vegan twist on a classic on the table in under 40 minutes.
Full of Flavor: From the hearty meatballs to the rich marinara sauce, every bite bursts with delicious flavor.
Healthy and Satisfying: Packed with plant-based protein and wholesome ingredients, this meal is nourishing and filling without being heavy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Ready to get started? Here’s what you’ll need to bring this Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs to life:

Spaghetti: Choose your favorite type of pasta – whole wheat, gluten-free, or regular spaghetti all work well.
Vegan Meatballs: These are the stars of the dish, made from ingredients like lentils, chickpeas, or a combination of plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh. You’ll also need breadcrumbs, a little ground flaxseed (to bind), and some seasoning to mimic the classic flavor.
Marinara Sauce: Look for a high-quality tomato sauce (or make your own if you’re up for it!) with garlic, onions, and herbs to really enhance the flavor.
Olive Oil: For sautéing the meatballs and adding richness to the sauce.
Garlic and Onion: Essential flavor boosters that give your sauce a depth that’ll have everyone asking for seconds.
Italian Seasoning: A perfect blend of oregano, basil, and thyme that pairs beautifully with the marinara sauce and meatballs.
Nutritional Yeast: A cheesy flavor enhancer that makes the meatballs and sauce extra delicious.

Variations

Looking to mix things up a little? Here are some easy variations to try:

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce or the meatballs for a touch of heat.
Herb Options: Fresh basil or parsley can be added to the sauce or sprinkled on top for extra color and flavor.
Different Protein: If you’re not a fan of lentils or chickpeas, swap in finely chopped mushrooms or tempeh for your meatballs.
Vegan Parmesan: Top your spaghetti with a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese for an extra savory punch.

How to Make Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by combining cooked lentils or mashed chickpeas with breadcrumbs, ground flaxseed, and seasonings in a bowl. Mix until everything comes together and forms a thick, dough-like consistency. Roll into meatballs about 1 to 1.5 inches in diameter. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté the meatballs until they’re golden brown and crispy on the outside.

Step 2: Make the Sauce

In the same skillet, add a bit more olive oil and sauté garlic and onions until fragrant. Add your marinara sauce and season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together.

Step 3: Combine the Meatballs and Sauce

Once the sauce is ready, gently add the meatballs into the pan and let them simmer in the sauce for another 10 minutes, allowing them to soak up all the delicious flavors.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

While the sauce and meatballs are simmering, cook your spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside, ready to be topped with that beautiful marinara sauce and meatballs.

Step 5: Serve

Serve the meatballs and sauce over a bed of spaghetti. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley and a sprinkle of vegan parmesan cheese if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Ensure Proper Binding: If your meatball mixture feels too loose, add a bit more breadcrumbs or ground flaxseed to help them hold together.
Use Pre-cooked Lentils: For convenience, use canned or pre-cooked lentils to save time.
Don’t Overcrowd the Skillet: When browning the meatballs, be sure not to overcrowd the pan so they can crisp up nicely on all sides.
Make the Sauce Your Own: Feel free to adjust the seasoning in the marinara sauce to your liking, whether that’s adding extra garlic, more herbs, or a dash of red wine for depth.

How to Serve

This dish is great on its own, but you can elevate it with a few sides to make a full meal. Here are a couple of ideas:

Side Dish:

Pair with a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.

Bread:

Serve with warm garlic bread or a slice of crusty baguette to mop up any extra marinara sauce.

Garnish:

Top your spaghetti with freshly chopped basil, a sprinkle of vegan parmesan, or even some roasted vegetables for added texture and flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover meatballs and sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water to loosen up the sauce.

Freezing

Both the meatballs and sauce freeze beautifully. Store them separately or together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or extra marinara sauce to keep everything moist and flavorful.

FAQs

1. Can I use gluten-free breadcrumbs for the meatballs?
Yes, gluten-free breadcrumbs work perfectly in this recipe! They’ll give your meatballs just the right texture.

2. How do I make the sauce richer?
If you want a richer sauce, add a splash of red wine or a spoonful of vegan butter while it simmers. You can also mix in some nutritional yeast for an added cheesy depth.

3. Can I make the meatballs ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can make the meatballs up to a day in advance, store them in the fridge, and then cook them when you’re ready to make the dish.

4. Can I make this recipe oil-free?
Yes, you can sauté the meatballs and sauce using vegetable broth instead of oil for a lighter version of the dish. The flavors will still be fantastic!

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs is a fantastic option for anyone craving a hearty, plant-based meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re new to vegan cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe will quickly become a family favorite. Don’t hesitate to make it your own by adding extra herbs or experimenting with different protein sources for the meatballs. Grab a fork and dig in—this vegan classic will win you over!

Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe