This Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is the ultimate plant-based comfort food that tastes just like the classic—without a trace of meat or dairy. Hearty, saucy, and packed with flavor, it’s a weeknight dream dinner that’s ready in under an hour. The “meatballs” are made from wholesome ingredients like lentils, oats, and mushrooms, giving them a satisfyingly meaty texture. Toss them into a rich, garlicky tomato sauce, pile it over a bed of tender spaghetti, and you’ve got a soul-warming, crowd-pleasing meal that’s 100% vegan and 100% delicious.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Wholesome and Satisfying: These meatballs are made from real ingredients like lentils, oats, and mushrooms, making them protein-packed and nourishing.
Unbelievably Flavorful: With a blend of herbs, garlic, and umami-rich ingredients, the flavor is bold, savory, and totally crave-worthy.
Perfect for Meal Prep: The meatballs and sauce hold up beautifully in the fridge, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters (and meat lovers!) will devour this dish without realizing it’s completely plant-based.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll need to whip up this incredibly satisfying Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs:

Cooked lentils: These form the hearty base of the meatballs and provide protein and a dense texture.
Rolled oats: Help bind the mixture and give the meatballs structure without needing breadcrumbs or flour.
Mushrooms: Finely chopped mushrooms add moisture and a deep umami flavor that mimics ground meat.
Onion and garlic: Sautéed until soft and golden, they add sweetness and richness to the meatballs.
Soy sauce or tamari: A splash adds savory depth and helps bring out the umami in the mushrooms.
Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs is key for that classic meatball flavor.
Tomato paste: Intensifies the flavor of the meatballs and enriches the tomato sauce.
Olive oil: For sautéing the veggies and adding richness to the sauce.
Crushed tomatoes: The base for the pasta sauce—go for a good quality brand for the best taste.
Fresh basil and parsley: Add brightness and freshness to the finished dish.
Spaghetti: Any type of spaghetti works—use gluten-free or whole wheat if preferred.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing flavors.

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free oats and your favorite gluten-free spaghetti.
Nutty Boost: Add a tablespoon of ground walnuts to the meatball mixture for extra richness and texture.
Spicy Twist: Stir red pepper flakes into the tomato sauce for a kick of heat.
Cheesy Vibes: Sprinkle with vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast before serving for that cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Different Base: Swap spaghetti for zucchini noodles or spaghetti squash for a lighter, low-carb option.

How to Make Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatball Base

In a skillet, sauté chopped onions, garlic, and mushrooms in olive oil until soft and lightly browned. Transfer to a food processor with cooked lentils, oats, soy sauce, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste. Pulse until the mixture is combined but still has some texture.

Step 2: Form and Bake the Meatballs

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll the mixture into meatball-sized balls and place them on a lined baking sheet. Bake for about 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and firm.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

While the meatballs bake, heat olive oil in a saucepan. Add garlic and tomato paste, sauté briefly, then pour in the crushed tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer gently, stirring occasionally. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of sugar if needed. Stir in chopped basil at the end.

Step 4: Cook the Spaghetti

Boil your spaghetti in salted water according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 5: Assemble and Serve

Once everything is ready, toss the cooked spaghetti in some of the tomato sauce. Plate it up, top with baked meatballs, spoon more sauce over the top, and finish with fresh parsley or vegan parmesan.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

Don’t Overblend: Keep some texture in the meatball mix so they don’t turn mushy.
Chill Before Baking: If the meatball mixture feels too soft, chill it for 15–20 minutes before forming the balls.
Use a Good Quality Tomato Sauce: It makes a big difference! Taste and adjust with herbs, salt, or a pinch of sugar as needed.
Cook Pasta Al Dente: It’ll hold up better when tossed with sauce and won’t turn mushy.

How to Serve

This dish is an all-in-one meal, but you can elevate it even more with a few extras:

Garnish:

Top with freshly chopped parsley, basil, or a sprinkle of vegan parmesan.

Side Dishes:

Serve with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a more rounded meal.

Bread:

Warm garlic bread or a rustic baguette is perfect for mopping up the extra sauce.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The meatballs will continue to absorb flavor and taste even better the next day.

Freezing

Both the sauce and the meatballs freeze beautifully. Freeze them separately or together in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.

Reheating

Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or tomato sauce over medium heat, or warm gently in the microwave until hot.

FAQs

Can I pan-fry the meatballs instead of baking them?
Yes! You can pan-fry them in a bit of oil over medium heat until golden on all sides. Just be gentle when turning them so they don’t break.

What type of lentils should I use?
Brown or green lentils work best because they hold their shape. Avoid red lentils—they’re too soft and will turn mushy.

Can I use store-bought vegan meatballs?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, use your favorite store-bought vegan meatballs and focus on making a killer homemade sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for kids?
Yes! The flavors are mild and comforting. You can skip the red pepper flakes and offer vegan cheese on top for extra appeal.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is proof that plant-based meals can be just as hearty, rich, and comforting as their meaty counterparts. Whether you’re cooking for your family, impressing friends, or simply treating yourself, this dish is easy to love and even easier to make. Give it a try—you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe