Name: Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Vegan
Ingredients: 1 Tablespoon ground flax meal + 3 Tablespoons water; 1 Tablespoon light olive oil or vegan butter; ⅔ cup chopped red onion or 1 large shallot; 8 ounces cremini mushrooms, sliced; Kosher salt and ground black pepper, to taste; 1 cup roasted nuts (almonds or toasted walnut halves); ⅔ cup gluten-free flour or oat flour; 1 ½ teaspoons minced garlic (~3 cloves garlic); 1 Tablespoon gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos; 2–3 Tablespoons nutritional yeast; 3 Tablespoons chopped fresh basil + extra for garnish; ½ teaspoon paprika; 1 teaspoon dried parsley; ½ teaspoon onion salt; 2 cups Red Pepper Sauce (or sauce of choice); Garnish – fresh chopped basil and cracked pepper

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 12 reviews

If you are searching for a hearty and flavorful plant-based dish that transforms humble ingredients into something truly special, this Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce Recipe is your answer. These meatballs are succulent and packed with umami goodness from cremini mushrooms and roasted nuts, perfectly combined with a vibrant, smoky red pepper sauce. Whether you are vegan, gluten-free, or simply craving a deliciously comforting meal, this recipe will quickly become a beloved favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a metal tray on a white marbled surface holding six white bowls and some fresh green basil leaves. Two large white bowls at the top left and top right are filled with folded brown mushrooms in light and dark beige shades. Below, a smaller white bowl is full of mixed nuts with shiny dark brown almonds and lighter walnut pieces. To its right is a white bowl packed with white flour. At the bottom left is a white bowl with black liquid, next to two garlic cloves and a small silver spoon filled with dried green herbs. Finally, a small green bowl holds mixed herbs and orange spices, and a round onion with light brown skin sits beside the top left bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering the right ingredients is the key to giving these meatballs their irresistible texture and flavor. Each element, from the mushrooms to the fresh basil, plays an essential role in creating a balanced and delicious dish you’ll want to make again and again.

Ground flax meal: Acts as a fantastic egg replacer and binder to hold the meatballs together.
Light olive oil or vegan butter: Provides richness and helps soften the onions and mushrooms when sautéing.
Chopped red onion or large shallot: Adds a sweet and subtle sharpness that balances the earthiness of mushrooms.
Cremini mushrooms: The star ingredient, offering umami depth and moisture for the meatballs.
Kosher salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the full flavor of the ingredients.
Roasted nuts (almonds or walnuts): Contribute a lovely crunch and nutty undertones, with extra toasting adding wonderful warmth.
Gluten-free flour or oat flour: Helps absorb moisture and bind the mixture, keeping the meatballs tender yet firm.
Minced garlic: Infuses a bright and aromatic note throughout the dish.
Gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos: Delivers savory depth and a touch of saltiness to enhance every bite.
Nutritional yeast: Imparts a subtle cheesy flavor — perfect for vegan cooking.
Fresh basil: Adds freshness and a pop of herbal brightness.
Paprika: Brings gentle warmth and color to the mix.
Dried parsley: Compliments the basil and balances the richness.
Onion salt: Intensifies the onion flavor with a salty kick.
Red Pepper Sauce: This luscious, smoky sauce ties everything together with its vibrant color and bold taste.
Fresh basil and cracked pepper (for garnish): Elevate the presentation and add freshness at serving time.

How to Make Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Flax Egg

Start by whisking together 1 tablespoon of ground flax meal with 3 tablespoons of water. Let this mixture sit until it thickens and becomes similar in consistency to an egg. This step is key to ensuring your meatballs hold together perfectly and have a nice, firm texture.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms

Heat your chosen oil or vegan butter in a large frying pan over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onions until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes. Then add the sliced cremini mushrooms and cook until they are browned and tender, covering the pan toward the end to help them steam slightly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper along the way to enhance the natural flavors.

Step 3: Prepare the Nut Flour Base

While the mushrooms cool, pulse your roasted nuts in a food processor until they reach a fine meal consistency. Combine this nut meal with your gluten-free or oat flour in a bowl. This mixture provides the perfect foundation for your meatballs, giving them necessary structure and a subtle nutty undertone.

Step 4: Blend the Mushroom Paste

Using the same food processor, blend the cooled mushrooms, onions, and minced garlic until you have a soft, cohesive paste. Be sure to scrape down the sides so everything is evenly incorporated—this paste is packed with flavor and moisture that will feed into your meatballs beautifully.

Step 5: Combine Ingredients and Form the Meatballs

In a large bowl, combine the nut-flour mixture with the mushroom paste. Stir in gluten-free soy sauce or coconut aminos, nutritional yeast, chopped fresh basil, paprika, dried parsley, onion salt, and the flax egg you prepared earlier. If the mixture feels too soft to handle, refrigerate it for 30 minutes to firm up. Then, scoop and roll into bite-sized meatballs, placing each on a parchment-lined baking sheet.

Step 6: Bake to Perfection

Bake your meatballs in a preheated 400°F oven for 20 minutes. Carefully flip them over and bake for an additional 10 to 15 minutes. This step ensures a nice golden crust on the outside while keeping the interior tender and moist.

Step 7: Prepare the Red Pepper Sauce and Combine

While the meatballs bake, gently warm your red pepper sauce in a saucepan over low heat. Once the meatballs come out of the oven, transfer them directly to the sauce. Toss gently to coat, warming everything together until ready to serve. This final touch infuses each bite of the Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce Recipe with incredible flavor.

How to Serve Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce Recipe

A white bowl filled with a bright orange creamy sauce, holding about nine dark brown meatballs partially covered by the sauce. A wooden spoon lifts one meatball near the front center, showing its textured surface with sauce around it. Small green basil leaves float on the left side of the bowl, which sits on a white marbled surface. The image focuses on the meatballs and sauce with soft lighting and a shallow depth of field. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Freshly chopped basil sprinkled over the top not only adds an appealing splash of green but also delivers an herbaceous brightness that cuts through the richness. Don’t forget a crack or two of freshly ground black pepper on top for a little extra bite and contrast.

Side Dishes

These vegan mushroom meatballs pair beautifully with a variety of sides—from creamy polenta or fluffy gluten-free pasta to a vibrant green salad or roasted vegetables. Choose sides that complement the savory and smoky profile while keeping the meal balanced and satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a party, try serving these meatballs as bite-sized appetizers with toothpicks alongside dipping cups filled with extra red pepper sauce. You can also layer them over gluten-free garlic bread or spiralized zucchini noodles for an elegant dinner presentation that’s sure to impress guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover vegan mushroom meatballs can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Keep them covered in the red pepper sauce to maintain moisture and flavor.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze the meatballs in a single layer on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag or container. They will keep well for up to three months, making them a convenient ready-to-eat meal whenever the craving strikes.

Reheating

To enjoy leftovers, reheat the meatballs gently in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or additional sauce to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them covered on medium power, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.

FAQs

Can I use other types of mushrooms for this recipe?

Absolutely! While cremini mushrooms are recommended for their rich flavor and texture, you can also use baby bella or portobello mushrooms. Just be sure to finely chop or blend them to maintain the right consistency for the meatballs.

Is this Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce Recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free flour and soy sauce alternatives like coconut aminos, this recipe is entirely gluten-free and suitable for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Can I prepare the red pepper sauce from scratch?

Definitely! Making your own red pepper sauce using roasted red peppers, garlic, olive oil, and spices will add homemade charm, but store-bought sauces work well too for convenience features.

What if I don’t have a food processor?

You can finely chop the mushrooms, nuts, and garlic by hand and mix everything thoroughly. The texture will be a little chunkier but still delicious. Just take extra care to make sure the mixture holds together well before shaping the meatballs.

How can I make the meatballs less soft?

If your batter feels too loose, refrigerate it for 30 minutes or add a bit more gluten-free flour or oat flour. This will help firm the mixture, making it easier to shape and bake without falling apart.

Final Thoughts

This Vegan Mushroom Meatballs with Red Pepper Sauce Recipe is one of those dishes that will quickly win over fans, vegan or not. It’s comforting, packed with flavor, and surprisingly easy to make with simple, wholesome ingredients. I hope you give it a try and experience the joy of creating a vibrant, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate!