Description
These Moist Baked Lentil Meatballs are a delicious and hearty vegetarian alternative to traditional meatballs. Made with cooked lentils, flavorful herbs, and a blend of seasonings, they offer a satisfying texture and rich taste. They are baked to perfection, resulting in golden-browned meatballs that pair wonderfully with pasta, rice, or your favorite sauce.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 1/2 cups cooked lentils, brown or green (canned brown lentils recommended)
- 1 flax egg (see notes) or 1 large egg
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp nutritional yeast (can substitute with parmesan cheese if not vegan)
- 1 1/2 tbsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp sea salt, or to taste
- 1 pinch black pepper, to taste
- 1 1/2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup whole wheat breadcrumbs (can use regular breadcrumbs), plus up to 3/4 cup as needed
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat to prevent sticking and ensure easy cleanup.
- Combine Ingredients: In a food processor or high-speed blender, add all the ingredients except the breadcrumbs. Pulse the mixture until it is combined but still has some texture—avoid pureeing into a smooth paste to maintain a meatball-like consistency.
- Add Breadcrumbs: Add the whole wheat breadcrumbs to the mixture and pulse again. Check the texture; if the mixture feels too wet and sticky to shape, add more breadcrumbs gradually, up to 3/4 cup, until the mixture holds together for rolling.
- Form Meatballs: Using clean hands, scoop roughly 1 tablespoon of the mixture at a time and roll it into balls. Arrange these evenly spaced on the prepared baking sheet to allow for even cooking.
- Bake Meatballs: Bake the lentil meatballs in the preheated oven for 30 to 35 minutes. Flip them halfway through the baking time to ensure even browning on all sides. The meatballs should be golden brown and firm when done.
- Serve: Serve the baked lentil meatballs with your choice of pasta, rice, or sauce for a comforting and nutritious meal.
Notes
- Flax Egg Substitute: To make a flax egg, mix 1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed with 3 tablespoons of water and let it sit for 5 minutes until gelatinous.
- You can substitute nutritional yeast with parmesan cheese if you are not following a vegan diet.
- If you prefer a firmer texture, feel free to add a bit more breadcrumbs up to the 3/4 cup mark.
- For gluten-free option, substitute the breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs.
- These meatballs freeze well before and after baking; store them in an airtight container or freezer bag.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian American
