vegetarian meatballs recipe
- The Best vegetarian meatballs recipe
- Creamy Garlic Vegetarian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Vegetarian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Vegetarian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
The Best vegetarian meatballs recipe
I also appreciate how versatile they are. You can toss them in marinara for pasta, serve them in a sandwich with avocado and mustard, or even bake them up as a side dish with roasted veggies. They’re perfect for meal prep because they freeze well, and I always have a batch on hand for busy weeknights. And honestly, the health benefits make them a no-brainer—high in fiber, plant-based protein, and packed with nutrients from the ingredients. It’s one of those recipes that’s so simple, yet so good, that everyone ends up asking for the secret.
Creamy Garlic Vegetarian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
A comforting dish featuring tender, flavorful meatballs made with hearty ingredients like breadcrumbs and herbs, served in a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms
- 1 cup finely chopped spinach
- 1 cup finely chopped carrots
- 1 cup finely chopped onion
- 1 cup finely chopped zucchini
- 1 cup finely chopped bell peppers
- 1 cup finely chopped walnuts
- 1 cup finely chopped sunflower seeds
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 egg
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 425°F. In a large bowl, combine breadcrumbs, mushrooms, spinach, carrots, onion, zucchini, bell peppers, walnuts, sunflower seeds, salt, black pepper, oregano, basil, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well. -
2
Add the egg and mix again until the dough comes together. Shape the mixture into 16 evenly sized meatballs. -
3
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Place meatballs in the skillet and cook for 5–7 minutes per side, until golden brown. -
4
In a separate saucepan, combine tomato sauce, minced garlic, dried basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes. -
5
Add the cooked meatballs to the saucepan and simmer for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. If desired, sprinkle with grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Baking sheet
- Oven
- Measuring cups
- Knife
- Cutting board
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Creamy Garlic Vegetarian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Garlic Vegetarian Meatballs with Tomato Sauce
1. What is the best way to store these vegetarian meatballs?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. For longer storage, freeze them on a tray to prevent sticking, then transfer to a freezer bag. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
2. Can I make these meatballs ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep the meatball mixture up to two days ahead and refrigerate it. Shape the meatballs just before baking to avoid them falling apart during cooking.
3. What sauces work best with these vegetarian meatballs?
These meatballs pair well with marinara, pesto, BBQ sauce, or even a simple tomato-basil broth. For extra flavor, brush them with olive oil before baking and let them crisp slightly.
4. How do I ensure the meatballs stay moist?
Use a mix of breadcrumbs and egg whites in the binding to keep them tender. Avoid overmixing the dough—handle it gently to maintain moisture. If the mixture feels too dry, add a splash of water or breadcrumbs.
