Vegan Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce and Meatballs

Savor the comforting flavors of a classic with a plant-based twist in this Vegan Spaghetti with Tomato Sauce and Meatballs. Perfect for a hearty dinner, this recipe features tender, flavor-packed meatballs made with plant-based ground meat, breadcrumbs, and a nutritious flax egg, infused with smoked paprika and Italian seasoning for a robust taste. The rich tomato sauce, simmered with garlic, onion, and aromatic herbs, creates the perfect partner to gluten-free (if needed) spaghetti. Ready in just an hour and packed with wholesome ingredients, this dish is as satisfying as it is nourishing. Garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish and serve up a meal that’s perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone looking to enjoy the best of plant-based cuisine!

Nutriscore Rating: 75/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:40 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 12 oz Spaghetti (gluten-free if needed)
• 2 tbsp Olive oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely chopped
• 3 Garlic cloves, minced
• 28 oz Crushed tomatoes (canned)
• 2 tbsp Tomato paste
• 1 tsp Dried basil
• 1 tsp Dried oregano
• 0.25 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp Salt
• 0.5 tsp Black pepper
• 2 tbsp Fresh parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 12 oz Plant-based ground meat
• 0.5 cup Breadcrumbs (gluten-free if needed)
• 1 tbsp Ground flaxseed
• 3 tbsp Water
• 2 tbsp Nutritional yeast
• 0.5 tsp Smoked paprika
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

Directions

Step 1

Start by preparing the flax egg for the meatballs: In a small bowl, combine the ground flaxseed with water. Stir well and let it sit for 5 minutes until it thickens.

Step 2

In a mixing bowl, combine the plant-based ground meat, breadcrumbs, flax egg, nutritional yeast, smoked paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until evenly combined.

Step 3

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 12-16 meatballs, depending on your preferred size. Set aside on a plate.

Step 4

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the meatballs and cook for 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally, until browned on all sides. Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside.

Step 5

In the same skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 6

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Simmer the sauce over low heat for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 7

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the spaghetti according to the package instructions. Drain and set aside.

Step 8

Add the cooked meatballs to the tomato sauce and simmer for an additional 5 minutes to let the flavors meld and heat the meatballs through.

Step 9

Serve the cooked spaghetti topped with the tomato sauce and meatballs. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1793.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	2134.3

Total Fat 93.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 23.9g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.7g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 4974.1mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 250.5g	0%
Dietary Fiber 36.5g	0%
Total Sugars 43.3g
Protein 103.9g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 449.7mg	0%
Iron 28.6mg	0%
Potassium 3696.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 37.3%

Protein: 18.4%

Carbs: 44.3%