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Home » Vegetarian

39 Vegetarian Dinners So Filling You’ll Forget Meat Exists

Published: Jan 14, 2025 by Shruthi · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

Vegetarian dinners don’t have to feel like they’re missing something—these meals are so hearty and filling, you might forget meat ever existed. Packed with bold flavors, plenty of protein, and ingredients that stick with you, they’re perfect for anyone looking for a great way to enjoy a meat-free evening without feeling hungry later. Whether you're a lifelong vegetarian or just trying something new, these dinners are all about big portions, great textures, and serious satisfaction.

Top view of bowl of spring pasta with peas and oyster mushrooms with garnishes on the side.

Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan Bolognese

An image of bolognese in a bowl with basil on top.
Vegan Bolognese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lentil and mushroom bolognese in rich tomato sauce is a hearty meal ready in under an hour. This makes it a perfect weeknight dinner that keeps you full without meat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Bolognese

Nigerian Fried Rice

An overhead image of Nigerian fried rice in a serving bowl.
Nigerian Fried Rice. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Nigerian fried rice with long grain rice and colorful veggies comes together in 15 minutes. Great for any meal when you want bold, filling flavors.
Get the Recipe: Nigerian Fried Rice

Vegan Fajitas

An image of a vegan fajita on a plate.
Vegan Fajitas. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan fajitas wrap with sautéed vegetables and dairy-free yogurt is quick and flavorful. An easy option for a light but satisfying meat-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Fajitas

Mushroom Ragù

An image of mushroom ragu in a white bowl with a garnish of basil on top.
Mushroom Ragù. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Mushroom Ragù served over pasta or rice makes a hearty dinner option. It's simple to prepare, making it great for busy evenings.
Get the Recipe: Mushroom Ragù

Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Top view of bowl of spring pasta with peas and oyster mushrooms with garnishes on the side.
Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spring pasta with pea shoot pesto and roasted mushrooms is ready in 30 minutes. A filling choice for when you need a quick, meat-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Spring Pasta with Peas and Oyster Mushrooms

Eggplant Casserole

An eggplant casserole in a baking dish, accompanied by a wooden spoon.
Eggplant Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Eggplant casserole layered with cheese and savory vegetables bakes into a hearty meal. Perfect for those looking for comfort without meat.
Get the Recipe: Eggplant Casserole

Mumbai Pav Bhaji

A top-down view of a plate with pav rolls, bhaji masala, red onions, lemon wedges, and garnishes on the side.
Mumbai Pav Bhaji. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Thick curried vegetable mash served with buttered bread roll is a rich Indian street food. Garnished with fresh herbs, it’s great for dinner gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Mumbai Pav Bhaji

Aloo Gobi Masala

An overhead image of aloo gobi in a white plate.
Aloo Gobi Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Roasted aloo gobi, an Indian cauliflower and potato dish, needs less than 15 minutes of prep. It’s easy to cook and makes a filling, meatless dinner.
Get the Recipe: Aloo Gobi Masala

Pasta alla Norma

An overhead image of Pasta alla Norma in a bowl with another bowl of pasta on the side.
Pasta alla Norma. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta alla Norma with sautéed eggplant and tomato sauce brings bold Italian flavors. Ready in 30 minutes, it’s a hearty meat-free dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Pasta alla Norma

Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

A close up view of spaghetti squash lasagna placed in a baking dish.
Spaghetti Squash Lasagna. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Spaghetti squash lasagna with ricotta and mozzarella layers is ready in 45 minutes. It’s a comforting main course perfect for meatless nights.
Get the Recipe: Spaghetti Squash Lasagna

Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew)

A large white pot filled with thick, orange shiro wat is pictured from above.
Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Ethiopian chickpea stew with warm spices comes together in 45 minutes. A rich, filling option for those craving bold flavors without meat.
Get the Recipe: Shiro Wat (Ethiopian Chickpea Stew)

Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Overhead view of rigatoni arrabbiata dish placed on a white plate and baking dish. 
Rigatoni Arrabbiata. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Rigatoni arrabbiata with tomatoes, garlic, and basil is ready in 30 minutes. This quick pasta dish makes a filling dinner without the need for meat.
Get the Recipe: Rigatoni Arrabbiata

Dal Tadka

Two bowls of finished dal tadka next to each other.
Dal Tadka. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Dal tadka, a simple Indian lentil curry, is packed with protein and easy to prepare. Serve it with flatbread or rice for a hearty meal.
Get the Recipe: Dal Tadka

One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Straight view of cooked one-pot lemon ricotta pasta garnished with rocket and fresh basil leaves placed in a white plate with a fork on the side.
One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Lemon ricotta pasta is ready in just 15 minutes, making it perfect for busy nights. A quick, meat-free option for any occasion.
Get the Recipe: One Pot Lemon Ricotta Pasta

Vegetable Korma

An overhead image of vegetable korma in a bowl, garnished with cilantro and with a spoon on the side.
Vegetable Korma. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan mixed vegetable korma with potatoes and peas is a creamy curry dish. Pair with flatbread for an easy, hearty dinner option.
Get the Recipe: Vegetable Korma

Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

An overhead image of sun dried tomato pasta in a rectangular dish.
Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Sun-dried tomato pasta with ricotta and parmesan is a one-pot meal ready in 30 minutes. An easy dish for those looking for a filling, meat-free option.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta

Paccheri al Forno

An overhead image of paccheri al forno in a pyrex glass dish.
Paccheri al Forno. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Paccheri al Forno, a Southern Italian pasta bake, is ready in under an hour. It’s a great choice for when you want a hearty, comforting meal.
Get the Recipe: Paccheri al Forno

Jamaican Rasta Pasta

An overhead image of cooked rasta pasta on a serving bowl.
Jamaican Rasta Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan rasta pasta with fresh vegetables and spices is ready in 30 minutes. This quick dish is perfect for a flavorful weeknight dinner.
Get the Recipe: Jamaican Rasta Pasta

Squash Casserole with Stuffing

An image of Squash Casserole in a baking dish.
Squash Casserole with Stuffing. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Squash casserole with stuffing, hatch chiles, and mushroom soup is great for holiday tables. A hearty side dish that everyone will enjoy.
Get the Recipe: Squash Casserole with Stuffing

Kung Pao Tofu

An image of kung pao tofu served in a bowl over rice.
Kung Pao Tofu. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kung Pao tofu with bell peppers and peanuts comes together in 30 minutes. Its bold flavors make it a satisfying option for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Tofu

Fried Avocado Tacos

An overhead view of three fried avocado tacos on parchment paper surrounded by garnishes.
Fried Avocado Tacos. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Fried avocado tacos with refried beans and poblano sauce are a fun, meatless meal. They’re perfect for those wanting something different yet hearty.
Get the Recipe: Fried Avocado Tacos

Chana Masala

Top view image of chana masala served in a white bowl.
Chana Masala. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Chana masala is an Indian chickpea curry ready in 30 minutes. It’s an easy one-pot meal for flavorful, filling dinners.
Get the Recipe: Chana Masala

Baked Cauliflower with Cheese

An overhead image of baked cauliflower with cheese with a serving missing at the bottom.
Baked Cauliflower with Cheese. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Baked cauliflower cheese with a creamy Mornay sauce is crispy and rich. Ready in an hour, it's a great alternative to classic mac and cheese.
Get the Recipe: Baked Cauliflower with Cheese

Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

An image of two stuffed spaghetti squashes on a white plate with a fork slicing a part of one of the squashes.
Stuffed Spaghetti Squash. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Stuffed spaghetti squash with veggies and mozzarella is quick to prepare. A meat-free main that’s perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Stuffed Spaghetti Squash

Easy Mushroom Wellington

An overhead image of mushroom wellington in a serving plate.
Easy Mushroom Wellington. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan mushroom Wellington with aromatic herbs wrapped in flaky pastry is a hearty option. Great for festive gatherings or special dinners.
Get the Recipe: Easy Mushroom Wellington

Penne Pomodoro

An close up photo of cooked penne pomodoro in a pot.
Penne Pomodoro. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Penne Pomodoro with fresh tomatoes and basil is ready in 30 minutes. An easy, meat-free choice for quick weeknight meals.
Get the Recipe: Penne Pomodoro

Pasta e Piselli

An image of Pasta e Piselli served in a bowl.
Pasta e Piselli. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Pasta e piselli, a classic Italian pasta with peas and Pecorino cheese, is simple to make. This easy dish is perfect for a quick dinner.
Get the Recipe: Pasta e Piselli

Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari

An overhead view of kitchari in a pot above a wooden board.
Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Kitchari, an Indian rice-lentil porridge, comes together in 45 minutes. It’s filling and perfect for a cozy, meat-free meal.
Get the Recipe: Ayurvedic Indian Kitchari

Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

An overhead image of the vegan efo niro in a pot.
Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew). Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan efo riro, a Nigerian spinach stew, is full of bold flavors. Served with rice, it’s a hearty dish without meat.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew)

Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

An image of a white plate with a serving of cheesy green bean casserole with a fork on the side, and the casserole behind it.
Cheesy Green Bean Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Cheesy green bean casserole with a golden topping is ready in 30 minutes. It’s a great meatless dish for holiday tables or quick dinners.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Green Bean Casserole

3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

An image of broccoli cheese casserole served on a table with a spoon on the right side.
3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli cheese casserole with just three ingredients is ready in 30 minutes. It’s a simple, nutritious side dish for busy days.
Get the Recipe: 3 Ingredient Broccoli Cheese Casserole

Vegan Ham

Overhead photo of vegan ham with pineapple slices placed on a white serving dish. 
Vegan Ham . Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Vegan ham made with vital wheat gluten is a savory, plant-based meat alternative. Perfect for festive meals or whenever you want something hearty.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ham

Broccoli Pesto Pasta

An overhead image of broccoli pesto pasta served in a plate.
Broccoli Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Broccoli pesto pasta with roasted vegetables and whipped ricotta is ready in 30 minutes. A great meat-free meal for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Pesto Pasta

Instant Pot Jollof

A close-up of a pot with cooked jollof rice with a person's hand holding a red spatula.
Instant Pot Jollof. Photo credit: Urban Farmie.

Nigerian Jollof Rice, stewed with tomatoes and peppers, is hearty and filling. An easy Instant Pot recipe perfect for any meal.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Jollof

Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Overhead image of a plate of creamy Copycat Panera Broccoli Cheddar Mac and Cheese.
Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Broccoli cheddar mac and cheese combines creamy cheddar sauce with tender broccoli for a hearty meal. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s perfect for a quick, meat-free dinner.
Get the Recipe: Broccoli Cheddar Mac And Cheese

Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Close-up image of sliced homemade Margherita pizza.
Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza. Photo credit: Parallel Plates.

Homemade Margherita pizza with fresh ingredients is ready in 20 minutes. A quick and simple meat-free option for busy nights.
Get the Recipe: Easy Homemade Margherita Pizza

Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Close-up of slow-cooker vegetarian chili.
Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili. Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Vegetarian chili simmered in a slow cooker is easy to prepare. A great one-pot meal for cozy nights or gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Slow Cooker Vegetarian Chili

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Greek Vegetarian Moussaka. Photo credit: At the Immigrant's Table.

Vegetarian moussaka with roasted vegetables and lentil tomato sauce is rich and festive. A filling option for special occasions or holiday meals.
Get the Recipe: Greek Vegetarian Moussaka

Veggie Pizza

Veggie Pizza. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Loaded vegetarian pizza with fresh veggies and melted cheese is perfect for game day. Its crispy crust and bold toppings make it a favorite at any gathering.
Get the Recipe: Veggie Pizza

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Hi, I'm Shruthi! I am the owner and blogger at Parallel Plates. I love everything about food, and I hope that you can find the best recipe inspiration, trends, hacks, and more here.

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