Name: Easy Vegetarian Dinner Recipes Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 60 min
Ingredients: 2 cans chickpeas, drained and rinsed; 1 cup rolled oats; 1 small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 tablespoons soy sauce; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and black pepper to taste; For the glaze, 1/4 cup ketchup; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; 1 teaspoon mustard

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I grew up with meatloaf on Sundays, and I still crave that same comfort, just in a plant based way. This vegan meatloaf recipe brings all that cozy flavor without the meat. If you love easy vegetarian dinner recipes, this one fits right in with 2 pound meatloaf recipe memories, 3 ingredient recipes dreams, 4 ingredient recipes dinner shortcuts, and hearty bean recipes dinner ideas. We mash chickpeas with oats, spices, and a simple glaze that turns sticky and rich in the oven. The texture feels hearty and sliceable, not mushy, and it fills the kitchen with that familiar savory smell. I make this when I want something warm, simple, and filling. It tastes great the next day, tucked into sandwiches or reheated for lunch. It proves that comfort food can feel kind to your body and still satisfy that classic meatloaf craving.

1) Key Takeaways
2) Easy Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf Recipe
3) Ingredients for Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf
4) How to Make Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf
5) Tips for Making Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf
6) Making Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf Ahead of Time
7) Storing Leftover Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf
8) Try these Main Course next!
9) Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf
10) Nutrition

1) Key Takeaways

I make this loaf when I want comfort without meat. It slices well, tastes rich, and fits right into easy vegetarian dinner recipes. You get plant protein, fiber, and real flavor in every bite. It feels like a 2 pound meatloaf recipe from childhood, yet it is fully plant based.

This vegan meatloaf recipe uses chickpeas and oats for body. It works for weeknights, meal prep, and casual guests. If you love bean recipes dinner ideas, this one will stay on repeat.

Leftovers taste even better the next day. I often tuck slices into sandwiches for lunch. It is simple food that feels honest and filling.

2) Easy Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf Recipe

I grew up on classic meatloaf, and I still crave that cozy feel. Now I cook easy vegetarian dinner recipes more often, and this loaf hits the same comfort note. It smells savory in the oven and draws everyone into the kitchen.

We mash chickpeas with oats and spices, press them into a pan, and brush a sweet tangy glaze on top. The texture stays firm, not crumbly. It feels like one of those 4 ingredient recipes dinner shortcuts, yet it tastes layered and full.

If you enjoy simple meatless dinner ideas that satisfy like old school comfort food, this loaf earns a spot at the table. It proves that plant based comfort food can feel hearty and familiar.

3) Ingredients for Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf

Chickpeas I use canned chickpeas for ease. They mash well and give the loaf structure. They bring protein and make this one of my favorite bean recipes dinner options.

Rolled Oats Oats bind the mixture and absorb flavor. They help the loaf hold together when sliced.

Onion and Garlic These build flavor at the base. I chop them fine so they blend into the mix and cook through.

Tomato Paste A small scoop adds depth and color. It gives that classic meatloaf feel.

Soy Sauce This adds salt and umami. It makes the loaf taste rich without meat.

Olive Oil A bit of oil keeps the texture tender and pleasant.

Smoked Paprika and Thyme These spices add warmth and a hint of smoke.

Glaze with Ketchup Maple Syrup and Mustard I mix these for a sticky top. It reminds me of the glaze on a 2 pound meatloaf recipe from my childhood table.

4) How to Make Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf

Step 1 Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Line a loaf pan with parchment so the loaf lifts out with ease.

Step 2 Mash the chickpeas in a large bowl. Leave some texture so the loaf feels hearty.

Step 3 Stir in oats, onion, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, oil, and spices. Mix until the blend feels thick and holds shape.

Step 4 Press the mixture into the pan. Smooth the top with a spoon.

Step 5 Spread the glaze over the surface. Bake for about 45 minutes until firm and browned.

Step 6 Let it rest before slicing. This step helps it stay intact and makes it one of those easy vegetarian dinner recipes you can rely on.

5) Tips for Making Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf

If the mix feels wet, add more oats. If it feels dry, add a spoon of water. The texture should press easily into the pan.

Let the loaf rest before cutting. I know it is tempting to slice right away. Waiting helps it hold together.

Double the glaze if you love a sticky top. I sometimes do that when serving guests. It turns a simple vegan meatloaf recipe into something that feels special without extra work.

6) Making Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf Ahead of Time

I often prep this loaf in the morning and bake it later. The mixture holds well in the fridge for a day.

You can bake it fully, cool it, and reheat slices when ready to eat. It works great for meal prep and fits into healthy vegetarian meal prep plans.

This loaf makes weeknights easier. It stands proudly among easy vegetarian dinner recipes that save time and stress.

7) Storing Leftover Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf

Store slices in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven or skillet for best texture.

I like to pan warm slices to crisp the edges. It adds a bit of bite and makes leftovers feel fresh.

You can freeze slices too. Wrap them well and thaw overnight before reheating.

8) Try these Main Course next!

9) Classic Chickpea Vegan Meatloaf