Hearty, savory, and perfectly crisp on the outside, Air Fryer Vegan Meatballs with Mushroom and Lentil are a plant-based comfort food that doesn’t feel like a compromise. These meatballs are packed with umami from mushrooms, protein from lentils, and just the right blend of herbs and spices to create a satisfying, flavorful bite. The air fryer gives them a golden crust while keeping the inside tender and moist.
This is the kind of recipe that works for everyone at the table. Whether you serve them over pasta, tuck them into a sandwich, or enjoy them with a dipping sauce, they’re filling, cozy, and surprisingly easy to make.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Mushrooms bring a rich, meaty texture, while lentils add heartiness and protein. The air fryer helps firm up the outside without deep frying, creating that classic meatball texture with less oil and less fuss. These meatballs hold together well and have a savory depth that pairs beautifully with tomato sauce, pesto, or creamy vegan sauces.
They’re also great for meal prep and freezer-friendly.
Ingredients
For the meatballs
- 1 cup cooked brown or green lentils, drained well
- 1 cup finely chopped mushrooms (cremini or button)
- ¼ cup finely diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
- 2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For serving (optional)
- Marinara sauce
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Pasta, sub rolls, or grain bowls
Step-by-Step Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix ground flaxseed with water. Let it sit for 5–10 minutes to thicken into a gel-like mixture.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook for 2–3 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the chopped mushrooms and cook until they release moisture and become tender, about 5–7 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
- In a food processor, combine cooked lentils, sautéed mushroom mixture, flax mixture, tomato paste, soy sauce, breadcrumbs, and seasonings.
- Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still has some texture. Avoid over-blending into a paste.
- Scoop about 1½ tablespoons of mixture and roll into balls. Place on a plate.
- Chill the meatballs in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to help them firm up.
- Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C) for 3–5 minutes.
- Lightly spray or brush the air fryer basket with oil.
- Arrange the meatballs in a single layer with space between them.
- Air fry for 10–12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through, until the outside is firm and lightly browned.
- Serve hot with your favorite sauce and sides.
Tips for the Best Texture
Finely chopping the mushrooms helps them blend seamlessly into the mixture and improves texture. Cooking off their moisture prevents soggy meatballs. Chilling the mixture before cooking helps them hold their shape in the air fryer.
If the mixture feels too wet, add a tablespoon of breadcrumbs at a time. If too dry, add a teaspoon of water or olive oil.
Flavor Variations
Add a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory boost.
Mix in chopped fresh parsley or basil for extra freshness.
For a spicier version, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Serving Ideas
Serve these vegan meatballs over spaghetti with marinara for a classic comfort meal. They’re also delicious stuffed into toasted sub rolls with sauce for a hearty sandwich. Add them to grain bowls with quinoa, roasted vegetables, and tahini sauce for a balanced plant-based meal.
They even work as party appetizers with toothpicks and dipping sauces.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 3–4 minutes to bring back crispiness. They can also be frozen after cooking; just reheat from frozen for a few extra minutes.
Final Thoughts
Air Fryer Vegan Mushroom-Lentil Meatballs prove that plant-based meals can be just as satisfying and comforting as traditional versions. With a savory, hearty texture and a crispy exterior, they’re versatile, filling, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re fully plant-based or just adding more veggie meals to your routine, this recipe is a delicious one to keep on repeat.
