Hearty vegetarian recipes

Votes: 2

These cozy, delicious, and filling vegetarian dishes prove that "comfort food" doesn't have to include meat.

Vegetarian pot pie

Trisha's vegetarian version of the pie is just as delicious. While the sumptuous filling of peas, carrots, and potatoes can be enjoyed on its own, wrap it in ready-made pie crust to complement the vibrant flavor with a crispy crust.

Recipe: Vegetarian pot pie

Fettuccine "Alfredo"

Giada uses heavy cream in her classic Alfredo pasta, which adds a wonderfully rich, creamy texture. Lemon juice contrasts with the cream and adds a fresh note.

Recipe: Fettuccine "Alfredo"

Portobello mushroom steaks in vegetarian gravy

Attention, vegetarians! You don't have to give up this classic hot dish anymore. These mushroom steaks feature the same breading used for chops (it's perfect) and are fried to a crispy golden brown. Top generously with a flavorful vegetable sauce (it can be made ahead and frozen for up to 1 month).

Recipe: Portobello mushroom steaks in vegetarian gravy

Mushroom Bourguignon

This recipe transforms the classic French boeuf bourguignon of braised beef and vegetables into a luxurious vegetarian dish. The combination of several types of mushrooms adds richness and umami to the sauce, while tender parsnips and carrots provide just the right texture.

Recipe: Mushroom Bourguignon

Oven-baked eggplants with cheese

Thanks to almond flour, this Italian dish is gluten-free. Cleanup is also easier: instead of frying in a pan, grill the breaded eggplant until golden brown.

Recipe: Oven-baked eggplants with cheese

Broccoli and Orzo Pasta Casserole

For this hearty casserole, use mild Havarti. This mild Danish cheese comes in a variety of flavors—try dill or caraway for a savory twist.

Recipe: Broccoli and Orzo Pasta Casserole

Po-Boy sandwiches with fried breaded mushrooms

The traditional New Orleans po' boy sandwich is a large, soft French baguette filled with fresh coastal seafood. This vegetarian version retains classic toppings like sliced tomato, shredded lettuce, and homemade remoulade sauce, but replaces the shrimp with crispy, fried mushrooms.

Recipe: Po-Boy sandwiches with fried breaded mushrooms

Vegetarian Chili with Cornbread in a Skillet

Hearty butternut squash chili with fluffy cornbread, made in one skillet. Serve with sour cream and pickled jalapeños for topping.

Recipe: Vegetarian Chili with Cornbread in a Skillet

Creamy mac and cheese on the stovetop

This version of a beloved dish doesn't require a flour-and-butter roux; cream cheese provides richness and volume. If the mac 'n' cheese gets tough while cooling, simply stir in a little warm water—it'll easily make it silkier.

Recipe: Creamy mac and cheese on the stovetop

Fried breaded cauliflower steaks

Who needs meat? This unique take on classic breaded chops is a delicious vegetarian main course that will make even meat lovers envious.

Recipe: Fried breaded cauliflower steaks

A healthy burger with a bean and bulgur patty

These vegetable burgers look like fried chicken sandwiches, but they're actually packed with plant-based protein, fiber, and a burst of flavor! We grill the patties in the oven. Lightly coating them with cooking spray ensures a crispy crust.

Recipe: A healthy burger with a bean and bulgur patty

Quick Chana Masala

"Chana masala is my favorite chickpea dish," shares recipe author Nidhi Jalan. "There are so many variations of this curry. I love it when the chickpeas are completely covered in a delicious, thick, and savory gravy. Most recipes call for dried chickpeas to be simmered in black tea with cardamom, but in my quick version, I use canned chickpeas and steep them in spiced tea."

Recipe: Quick Chana Masala

Baked kale and mushroom mac and cheese

Don't be surprised by the amount of kale used in this recipe. It will shrink during cooking, and it pairs perfectly with the tender pasta and shiitake mushrooms.

Recipe: Baked kale and mushroom mac and cheese

Baked pasta with fried vegetables

Baked pasta is a simple and universally loved dish, and Giada's recipe is no exception. To roast the vegetables perfectly, cut them into roughly equal-sized slices that will cook evenly in the oven.

Recipe: Baked pasta with fried vegetables

Parma Eggplant Sandwich

Eggplant Parma is a deliciously satisfying dish, especially served on a soft bun. Dip the eggplant in egg and coat it in breadcrumbs for a crispy crust.

Recipe: Eggplant sandwich

Mac and cheese with broccoli and cauliflower

Sour cream is the base of the cheese sauce that brings broccoli, cauliflower, and pasta together into one wonderful dish.

Recipe: Mac and cheese with broccoli and cauliflower

Layered pie with root vegetable filling

This hearty pie is filled with tender carrots, parsnips, and celery root. For a beautiful presentation, score the crust.

Recipe: Layered pie with root vegetable filling