Smoky Southern-Style Meatless Meatloaf – Simple & Flavorful

There’s something so comforting about the smell of a meatloaf baking in the oven. It takes me back to family dinners at my grandmother’s house, where the laughter blended with the aroma of home-cooked meals. I vividly remember the suspense of waiting for her famous meatloaf to be ready, each slice served up with love, casting its warm glow over the dining table. Today, I’d love to share a recipe that captures that very essence—a Smoky Southern-Style Meatless Meatloaf. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or trying this for the first time, I promise this post will guide you through every step, making it simple, stress-free, and honestly, downright delicious.

Why I Love This Recipe of Smoky Southern-Style Meatless Meatloaf

This recipe holds a special place in my heart. First and foremost, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a cozy, meaty dinner without the meat. Eating plant-based is not only beneficial for our health but also for our planet. The combination of chickpeas, black beans, and spices creates a robust flavor profile that even the most hardcore meat lovers can appreciate.

For beginner cooks, this meatloaf is a great introduction to plant-based cooking. It doesn’t demand perfection; instead, it embraces the beauty of mixing ingredients and savoring the journey. Plus, it’s versatile! You can swap ingredients according to your pantry, making it practical. It’s a great dish to bring to gatherings, showing others that meatless meals can be hearty and delicious. Most importantly, it brings comfort to the dinner table, making it a go-to recipe that feels like home.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Smoky Southern-Style Meatloaf

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Essentials

• 15 ounces chickpeas: Make sure to drain and reserve the aquafaba for extra moisture and texture; rinse them well.
• 30 ounces black beans: These should be drained and rinsed too.
• 1 cup rolled oats: Coarsely ground in a food processor for that perfect consistency.
• 1 cup cornmeal: This gives a beautiful, hearty texture to the loaf.
• 3 tablespoons liquid smoke: This is the star ingredient for that smoky flavor.
• ½ cup aquafaba: The liquid from the chickpeas acts as a binder.
• 2 teaspoons olive oil or 2 tablespoons vegetable broth: If you prefer to cook oil-free.
• 1 medium yellow or white onion: Finely diced for a subtle sweetness.
• 1 tablespoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that tie the flavors together.
• 2 teaspoons ground sea salt: To enhance all the flavors.
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper: A touch of spice.
• 2 tablespoons vegan Worcestershire sauce: I recommend Annie’s brand for the best flavor.
• ½ cup low-sodium vegetable broth: This keeps the loaf moist.
• ⅓ cup ketchup: A delightful touch of sweetness.
• 1 cup BBQ sauce: For the sumptuous glaze on top.
• 1 cup tomato sauce: Adds depth to the mix.
• 3 cloves garlic: Minced for a burst of flavor.
• ¼ cup apple cider vinegar: For balance and tanginess.
• 1 tablespoon dark molasses: Adds richness.
• ¼ cup brown sugar: For that sweet contrast.
• 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds color and a hint of warmth.
• 1 teaspoon onion powder: Builds layers of flavor.
• ¼ teaspoon cumin: For a touch of earthiness.
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper: Optional, for a bit of heat.
• ¼ teaspoon white pepper: A subtle finish.
• 1 tablespoon lime juice: Brightens up the profile.
• 1 pepper in adobo sauce: For a smoky, spicy kick.
• 1 teaspoon olive oil (extra virgin): For sautéing.
• 1 tablespoon cilantro (minced): A fresh, aromatic finish.
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch plus ¼ cup (60 ml) water: Mixed together for binding.

Optional Add-Ons

You can further personalize your meatloaf with ingredients like:

• Chopped bell peppers: Sweet or spicy varieties for a crunch.
• Mushrooms: Finely chopped, they add moisture and umami.
• Nuts or seeds: For added texture and nutrition.

Substitutions and Shortcuts

No chickpeas? You can use cannellini beans instead. Don’t have black beans? Kidney beans could work too. Feel free to swap garlic for shallots if you prefer a milder taste. And if you’re running short on time, you can prepare this in advance, allowing it to marinate overnight for even more flavor.

How to Make Smoky Southern-Style Meatless Meatloaf Step-by-Step

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (176˚C). Take a 9-inch bread pan and line it with parchment paper for easy removal or lightly grease it.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil or 2 tablespoons of vegetable broth over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the finely diced onions. Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir well. After about five minutes, once the onions are soft and translucent (without browning), sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of dried Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir and let that simmer.

Step 3: Combine the Goodness

Add 2 tablespoons of vegan Worcestershire sauce, ½ cup of low-sodium vegetable broth, and ⅓ cup of ketchup to the skillet. Stir until the ketchup melds completely with the onion mixture. Set this aromatic blend aside.

Step 4: Create the Bean Base

In a food processor, combine your drained and rinsed chickpeas. Pulse until they turn creamy and place them in a large mixing bowl. Then, repeat with 15 ounces of black beans until creamy, and add them to the bowl as well. For the remaining 15 ounces of black beans, pulse until they’re coarsely chopped and toss into the bowl.

Step 5: Mix in the Dry Ingredients

Now, process 1 cup of rolled oats until finely ground and add it to the bean mix. Follow this by including 1 cup cornmeal, 3 tablespoons liquid smoke, and half of the ½ cup aquafaba. Mix it well, adding a tablespoon of broth or water if the mixture feels dry. You want a cohesive texture that holds together.

Step 6: Combine Vegetables and Beans

Lastly, add the sautéed onion mixture to the beans and gently mix everything together. Best practice? Get your hands in there for a good, personal blend. If it feels too wet, a bit more cornmeal will do the trick. Once it holds together firmly, spoon the mixture into your lined bread pan. Press it down firmly, making sure it’s evenly distributed and filling those corners.

Step 7: The Final Touch

Spread 1 cup of BBQ sauce evenly over the top of your meatless loaf. Now, slide it into your preheated oven and bake for 1 hour and 20 minutes. If you’re using a convection oven, start checking around the 50-minute mark.

Step 8: Cool and Serve

Once fully cooked, let it cool for about 15 to 20 minutes. This cooling period helps everything set and makes it easier to slice.

Common Mistakes to Avoid Smoky Southern-Style Meatless Meatloaf

Overprocessing the Beans

While it’s important to create a cohesive mix, overprocessing the beans can lead to a mushy texture. You want to maintain some chunkiness for that pleasing bite.

Skipping the Cooling Time

I know the anticipation of eating is strong, but cutting it too soon can cause it to crumble. The cooling time is crucial for a well-set loaf!

Not Seasoning Well

This recipe offers plenty of flavor opportunities. Be sure to taste the mixture before baking. Adjust salt and spices as needed. You want robust flavors to shine through.

Ignoring the Aquafaba

Using that reserved chickpea liquid (aquafaba) adds moisture and binds everything together. Don’t skip this step; it’ll make a big difference!

Serving Suggestions for Smoky Southern-Style Meatless Meatloaf

Pair It With Sides

This meatless loaf pairs wonderfully with classic sides. Think creamy mashed potatoes or buttery corn on the cob. The smoky flavors really shine next to a bed of fluffy quinoa or a crisp salad as well.

Sandwich It Up

Why not turn your leftovers into a fantastic sandwich? Layer slices of the meatloaf in a hearty bun, top with fresh greens, and a dollop of the leftover BBQ sauce for a scrumptious meal on the go.

Make It a Feast

Make a full Southern meal by serving the meatloaf with classic dishes like collard greens or cornbread on the side. It transforms a cozy dinner into a true feast!

Endless Leftovers

The beauty of this dish is that it keeps well in the fridge. Enjoy slices cold, or reheat them for lunch, layered with avocado or vegan mayo.

Pro-Level Tips for When You’re Ready

Play with Flavors

Feel free to experiment with spices and ingredients based on your taste preferences. Try adding different herbs or swap out the liquid smoke with smoked paprika for a different smokiness.

Batch Cooking

Making multiple meatloaves at once? You can freeze them before baking. Just wrap them tightly and then when you’re ready, thaw and bake as directed. It’s a huge timesaver!

Adjusting Texture

If you enjoy a chunkier texture, consider adding diced vegetables such as bell peppers or carrots. This will not only enhance the flavor but also add a vibrant color to your loaf.

Experiment with Toppings

Try different sauces on top of the meatloaf. A mix of BBQ sauce and a splash of apple cider vinegar can create a zesty glaze that’ll get your taste buds dancing.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Making Smoky Southern-Style Meatless Meatloaf might feel a bit labor-intensive, but it’s easier than it looks! The flexibility in ingredients allows you to make it personal to your tastes,so don’t hesitate to experiment. This recipe combines coziness with a practical meal that even beginner cooks can master. Now it’s time to call your friends or family, prep your ingredients, and dive into this wholesome, delicious dish!

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