Easy Vegetarian Lentil Meatballs – Hearty, Healthy & Meat-Free
Hearty, protein-rich vegetarian lentil meatballs made with whole ingredients and Italian herbs. Perfect for pasta, subs, bowls, or appetizers.
Ingredients
2 cups cooked brown or green lentils
¾ cup rolled oats or breadcrumbs
½ cup grated carrot or zucchini
½ small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 egg or flax egg (1 tbsp flax + 3 tbsp water)
¼ cup grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
Olive oil, for cooking
Instructions
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Cook lentils if needed and drain thoroughly.
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Sauté onion, garlic, and grated veggie in olive oil until soft.
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In a bowl or food processor, combine lentils, sautéed veggies, oats, cheese, egg, and seasonings. Mix until combined but textured.
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Form into 1½-inch balls and place on a lined baking sheet.
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Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway, or pan-fry until golden.
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Serve warm with pasta, salad, or your favorite sauce.
Notes
Use flax egg and nutritional yeast for vegan. Freeze before or after cooking for easy meal prep. Air fryer option: 375°F for 10–12 minutes.