This Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is a showstopper that’s both comforting and cruelty-free. Imagine all the deliciousness of traditional spaghetti and meatballs, but without any animal products. The meatballs are made from a hearty blend of plant-based ingredients that mimic the texture and flavor of the classic, while the spaghetti is smothered in a rich, flavorful marinara sauce. It’s the kind of dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds, whether they’re vegan or not!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort Food, Vegan Style: You won’t miss the meat! These plant-based meatballs are packed with flavor and hold up perfectly with the pasta.
Quick and Easy: This dish is simple to make, especially for busy weeknights. It takes just about 30 minutes from prep to plate!
Satisfying and Filling: You’ll feel completely satisfied with this hearty meal, which is full of fiber and plant-based protein.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s dive into the key ingredients that make this Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs so delicious:

Vegan Meatballs: The base of these meatballs is often made from lentils, chickpeas, or tempeh. You can also use store-bought vegan meatballs if you’re short on time.
Spaghetti: Traditional spaghetti works, but you could use whole wheat or gluten-free pasta if preferred.
Tomato Sauce: A rich marinara sauce that’s full of flavor. You can make your own or grab a jar from the store. Just make sure it’s vegan-friendly (no dairy or hidden animal ingredients).
Garlic and Onion: These are essential to building a deep, savory base of flavor for both the sauce and the meatballs.
Breadcrumbs: To help the meatballs stick together, breadcrumbs (make sure they’re vegan) work wonderfully.
Nutritional Yeast: This adds a cheesy, nutty flavor to the meatballs. It’s a fantastic vegan alternative to Parmesan.
Fresh Herbs: Basil and oregano are perfect for adding a burst of freshness to both the sauce and the meatballs.

Variations

Want to customize this recipe? Here are a few variations to consider:

Spicy Kick: Add some red pepper flakes to the sauce or the meatballs to give the dish a little heat.
Cheese Lovers: Top the dish with your favorite vegan cheese, whether it’s a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan or a meltable mozzarella-style cheese.
Different Protein: If you’re not a fan of lentils or chickpeas, try using quinoa or tofu for the meatballs. Tofu works especially well when crumbled and combined with spices.
Gluten-Free: Opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs and pasta to make the dish completely gluten-free.

How to Make Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs

Step 1: Prepare the Meatballs

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large bowl, combine your cooked lentils (or chickpeas), breadcrumbs, nutritional yeast, garlic, onion, and any spices you like (think oregano, basil, and a little salt and pepper). Mix everything together until you can form the mixture into small balls. If it’s too dry, add a little water or vegetable broth to help bind the mixture.

Step 2: Bake the Meatballs

Place the meatballs on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake them in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes, flipping them halfway through for an even golden-brown color. You want them to be crispy on the outside but soft and tender on the inside.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

While the meatballs are baking, heat some olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the garlic and onion and sauté until fragrant and translucent. Then, pour in your tomato sauce, add some fresh herbs (like basil and oregano), and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes to develop the flavors. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Cook the Pasta

While the sauce is simmering, cook your spaghetti according to the package directions. Drain the pasta, but make sure to reserve a little pasta water in case you want to thin the sauce later.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Once the meatballs are done and the sauce is ready, gently add the meatballs to the sauce. Stir them in and let them simmer for a few minutes to absorb the flavors. Serve the spaghetti topped with the sauce and meatballs, and garnish with fresh basil or a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan if desired.

Pro Tips for Making the Recipe

For Crispy Meatballs: If you want the meatballs to have an extra crispy crust, try pan-frying them in a little oil before baking.
Customize the Flavor: Adjust the seasoning in the meatballs to suit your taste. Add some smoked paprika for a deeper flavor or a bit of cayenne pepper for heat.
Make It Saucy: If you prefer a saucier dish, don’t hesitate to double the amount of tomato sauce or add some of the reserved pasta water to thin it out.

How to Serve

Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs well with a variety of sides and garnishes:

Garnishes:

Top your dish with fresh basil, a sprinkle of vegan Parmesan, or even a drizzle of olive oil for an added richness.

Side Dish:

Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad with lemon dressing. Roasted vegetables or a crunchy Italian-style slaw would also complement the dish beautifully.

Extra Sauces:

If you want a creamy touch, drizzle some vegan Alfredo sauce over the top for an indulgent twist.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This recipe stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You may want to add a splash of water or extra sauce to keep it moist.

Freezing

Freeze the meatballs and sauce separately for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a pan until warmed through.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the meatballs and sauce in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a little water or vegetable broth if the sauce is too thick.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought vegan meatballs?
Yes! If you’re in a pinch, store-bought vegan meatballs work just fine. Just make sure to heat them thoroughly before adding to the sauce.

2. Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just swap out the regular pasta and breadcrumbs for gluten-free alternatives. It will still be just as delicious!

3. How do I make the sauce richer?
To make the sauce richer, try adding a spoonful of tomato paste or a splash of red wine for extra depth. You can also incorporate a bit of coconut milk or cashew cream for creaminess.

4. Can I make the meatballs in advance?
Yes! You can make the meatballs ahead of time, shape them, and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. They also freeze well for future use.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs recipe is proof that plant-based meals can be just as comforting and satisfying as the originals. It’s a delicious twist on a classic that’s perfect for anyone, whether you’re a vegan or just looking to enjoy a lighter, cruelty-free meal. Don’t be surprised if this becomes your go-to weeknight dinner—easy, flavorful, and totally irresistible! Give it a try and enjoy!

Vegan Spaghetti and Meatballs Recipe