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Looking to add more plant-based meals to your dinner rotation?
Whether you’re following a vegetarian or vegan lifestyle, or simply want to enjoy a delicious meatless meal, we’ve got you covered!
Meatless dinners are not only healthy but also full of flavor and creativity.
From hearty veggie stir-fries to comforting pasta dishes, there’s no shortage of mouthwatering options to try.
In this collection of 17+ meatless dinner recipes, you’ll find a variety of ideas that are easy to prepare, packed with nutrients, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
Let’s dive into these delightful meatless meals that are perfect for any night of the week!
17+ Comforting and Healthy Meatless Dinner Recipes to Try Tonight

Incorporating more meatless meals into your diet doesn’t have to mean sacrificing flavor or satisfaction.
With these 17+ meatless dinner recipes, you can enjoy a wide range of tasty and wholesome meals that are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion.
Whether you’re looking for a light dish like zucchini noodles or a hearty favorite like lentil shepherd’s pie, these recipes are packed with flavor and nutrients.
Give them a try, and discover how delicious and satisfying meatless meals can be!
1. Veggie Stir-Fry
Looking for a quick and healthy meatless dinner that’s bursting with flavor?
Try this vibrant veggie stir-fry!
Packed with a colorful mix of bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snap peas, this dish offers a healthy balance of crisp textures and satisfying flavors.
The secret lies in the savory, slightly sweet sauce made from soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a hint of honey, creating the perfect glaze for the vegetables.
Serve over a bed of fluffy brown rice or quinoa for a filling meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Whether you’re new to meatless meals or a seasoned pro, this stir-fry is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
[Full Recipe]
2. Creamy Tomato Basil Pasta
Craving comfort food without the meat? This creamy tomato basil pasta is an indulgent yet light dish that will satisfy your hunger without any guilt.
Made with a velvety sauce of ripe tomatoes, garlic, fresh basil, and a touch of cream, it’s an irresistible combination of savory and fresh.
Tossed with al dente pasta, the sauce clings perfectly to every noodle, creating a rich and satisfying experience with every bite.
Add a sprinkle of Parmesan or a handful of roasted pine nuts for some added crunch and flavor.
This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a casual gathering with friends.
[Full Recipe]
3. Sweet Potato & Black Bean Tacos
These sweet potato and black bean tacos are a fantastic option for a quick, plant-based dinner that’s both hearty and delicious.
Roasted sweet potatoes are seasoned with smoky cumin, paprika, and chili powder, giving them a warm, comforting flavor.
Paired with protein-packed black beans, these tacos are filling and packed with nutrients.
Top with creamy avocado, crunchy slaw, and a drizzle of tangy lime dressing for the perfect balance of textures and flavors.
Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping for a meal prep week, these tacos make a fantastic meatless option that’s both flavorful and satisfying.
[Full Recipe]
4. Chickpea Curry
If you’re craving a rich, aromatic dish that’s both satisfying and full of flavor, this chickpea curry is the perfect choice.
Chickpeas are simmered in a blend of fragrant spices like cumin, coriander, turmeric, and garam masala, making this curry a warm, comforting meal that feels like a hug in a bowl.
Coconut milk adds creaminess, while tomatoes provide a slight tang. Served over a bed of basmati rice or with warm naan bread, this hearty dish is not only easy to make but also packed with plant-based protein and fiber.
It’s an ideal option for a busy weeknight when you want something flavorful, filling, and quick.
[Full Recipe]
5. Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Looking for a lighter, healthier twist on pasta?
Zucchini noodles with pesto are the perfect meatless dinner solution!
This dish replaces traditional pasta with fresh zucchini, spiralized into long, thin noodles that are both refreshing and satisfying.
Tossed in a vibrant pesto made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, and olive oil, the zucchini noodles are bursting with flavor.
Add some cherry tomatoes and toasted almonds for extra texture and crunch.
It’s a simple, no-cook meal that’s perfect for a warm evening or when you want something light but still packed with flavor.
[Full Recipe]
6. Lentil Tacos
These hearty lentil tacos are a fantastic, protein-packed meatless alternative to traditional tacos.
The lentils are seasoned with a blend of spices like cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika to give them a rich, meaty texture and flavor.
Served in soft corn tortillas and topped with fresh avocado, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, these tacos are a perfect balance of savory and fresh.
For an added twist, you can include a tangy cabbage slaw or a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
These tacos are perfect for Taco Tuesday or any time you want a satisfying, plant-based meal.
[Full Recipe]
7. Cauliflower & Quinoa Buddha Bowl
If you’re looking for a vibrant, nutrient-packed dinner that’s both filling and nourishing, this cauliflower and quinoa Buddha bowl is the way to go.
Roasted cauliflower, with its crispy edges and savory flavor, is paired with protein-rich quinoa, leafy greens, and a medley of roasted vegetables like sweet potatoes, carrots, and chickpeas.
The dish is topped with a tangy tahini dressing that ties everything together, creating a delicious balance of textures and flavors.
This Buddha bowl is perfect for meal prep as it’s easy to make in advance and keeps well for several days.
[Full Recipe]
8. Mushroom & Spinach Risotto
Indulge in the rich, creamy goodness of this mushroom and spinach risotto.
The earthy flavor of sautéed mushrooms perfectly complements the tender, creamy Arborio rice, making each bite comforting and satisfying.
Fresh spinach is stirred in at the end, adding a burst of color and nutrients.
The risotto is cooked to creamy perfection, with a subtle hint of Parmesan cheese, white wine, and vegetable broth.
This dish is elegant enough for a special dinner but easy enough to make on a weeknight.
It’s the perfect choice if you’re looking for a warming, satisfying meatless dinner option.
[Full Recipe]
9. Veggie Burger
If you’re craving a satisfying and hearty meatless meal, these homemade veggie burgers are the perfect choice.
Made with a blend of black beans, quinoa, and spices, these patties are packed with protein and fiber.
They’re seasoned with cumin, garlic, and a touch of smoked paprika for a burst of flavor.
Once grilled or pan-fried to perfection, the veggie burgers have a crisp exterior and a tender, savory interior.
Serve them on whole-grain buns with your favorite toppings, such as lettuce, tomato, pickles, and a drizzle of avocado mayo.
These veggie burgers are an ideal option for a delicious, wholesome dinner that’s easy to customize with your preferred toppings.
[Full Recipe]
10. Eggplant Parmesan
For a classic Italian dish that’s both hearty and meatless, look no further than eggplant Parmesan.
Sliced eggplant is breaded and baked until golden and crispy, then layered with marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese.
The combination of tender eggplant, savory tomato sauce, and gooey cheese creates a rich and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
Serve it with a side of spaghetti or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
This eggplant Parmesan recipe is not only vegetarian but also offers a great way to enjoy a comfort food classic with a healthy twist.
[Full Recipe]
11. Spaghetti Squash Primavera
Looking for a fresh and light twist on pasta?
Spaghetti squash primavera is a wonderful meatless option that’s full of veggies and bursting with flavor.
The spaghetti squash, when roasted, forms tender strands that resemble pasta but are much lower in carbs.
Tossed with sautéed vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and peas, this dish is colorful and full of nutrients.
A drizzle of olive oil, fresh herbs, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese complete the dish, making it a light yet filling dinner.
It’s a great way to enjoy a pasta-like dish without the heaviness of traditional pasta.
[Full Recipe]
12. Butternut Squash & Sage Risotto
This creamy butternut squash and sage risotto is a deliciously comforting dish that’s perfect for autumn or winter nights.
The natural sweetness of roasted butternut squash blends beautifully with the rich, creamy Arborio rice.
Fresh sage adds an aromatic touch, while a bit of vegetable broth and Parmesan cheese create the signature creamy texture risotto is known for.
This dish is simple yet elegant, offering a balance of savory, sweet, and earthy flavors that are incredibly satisfying.
Whether you’re making a special dinner or looking for a cozy weeknight meal, this risotto is the perfect choice.
[Full Recipe]
13. Sweet Potato & Chickpea Buddha Bowl
This nourishing Buddha bowl features roasted sweet potatoes and chickpeas, both seasoned with a combination of cumin, paprika, and garlic for a smoky, savory flavor.
Paired with a bed of quinoa or brown rice, and topped with fresh greens, this dish is bursting with color and nutrients.
Add some sliced avocado for a creamy texture, and drizzle with a tangy tahini dressing to bring it all together.
This meal is not only full of flavor, but it’s also loaded with plant-based protein and fiber, making it a filling and energizing choice for any night of the week.
[Full Recipe]
14. Spicy Peanut Noodles
These spicy peanut noodles are a flavor-packed, satisfying meal that’s perfect for a quick and easy meatless dinner.
Made with cooked noodles (your choice of rice noodles, soba, or spaghetti), the dish is tossed in a rich and creamy peanut sauce with a touch of soy sauce, sesame oil, and sriracha for heat.
Fresh lime juice and cilantro add a refreshing contrast to the bold flavors.
You can add vegetables like shredded carrots, bell peppers, or cucumber for added crunch and nutrients.
This dish is perfect for anyone who loves Asian-inspired flavors with a spicy kick and a creamy finish.
[Full Recipe]
15. Cauliflower Tacos
These cauliflower tacos offer a flavorful and satisfying meatless alternative to traditional tacos.
Roasted cauliflower florets are seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and garlic, then baked until crispy and caramelized.
They’re served in soft corn tortillas and topped with fresh salsa, crunchy cabbage slaw, and a drizzle of lime crema.
The combination of smoky, spicy cauliflower with the coolness of the slaw and lime creates a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
These tacos are an easy weeknight dinner that’s both filling and full of vibrant flavor.
[Full Recipe]
16. Avocado & Chickpea Salad Sandwich
If you’re looking for a healthy, hearty lunch or dinner, this avocado and chickpea salad sandwich is the perfect option.
Mashed chickpeas are combined with creamy avocado, fresh lemon juice, and a touch of garlic, creating a rich and flavorful spread.
Add crunchy veggies like cucumber, celery, and red onion for extra texture, and spread the mixture between slices of whole grain bread.
This sandwich is packed with healthy fats, protein, and fiber, making it both filling and nourishing.
It’s a great option for meal prep, as the chickpea spread can be made in advance and stored in the fridge.
[Full Recipe]
17. Mediterranean Stuffed Peppers
These Mediterranean stuffed peppers are a flavorful and nutritious meatless dinner that’s easy to make and perfect for a family meal.
Bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of quinoa, spinach, feta cheese, and Kalamata olives, then baked until tender.
The quinoa provides a protein-packed base, while the feta adds a creamy, salty bite.
The olives bring a rich briny flavor that pairs perfectly with the sweetness of the bell peppers.
Topped with a drizzle of olive oil and fresh herbs, these stuffed peppers are a well-rounded, satisfying meal that’s bursting with Mediterranean flavors.
[Full Recipe]
Conclusion
Looking for simple, nutritious, and delicious meals? These 17+ meatless dinner recipes are a great place to start. From fresh salads and vegetable-packed stir-fries to creamy pastas and comforting casseroles, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is designed to bring out the best flavors from wholesome, plant-based ingredients. These meatless meals are perfect for any diet and can easily be tailored to your preferences. Start cooking today and see how satisfying a meatless dinner can be!