Vegan Chickpea Meatballs — Easy, Juicy & Seriously Addictive! 💚

These Vegan Chickpea Meatballs have officially become one of my most-loved plant-based recipes — and once you try them, you’ll see why! They’re tender on the inside, lightly crispy on the outside, and packed with comforting flavors that make you forget they’re completely meat-free.

I’ve been eating vegan for years, and trust me… this recipe is now one of my absolute favorites. They’re budget-friendly, protein-packed, and perfect for pasta night, meal prep, or dipping straight into your favorite sauce. 😍✨

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🌿 Ingredients

• 1 can chickpeas (drained & rinsed)
• ½ cup breadcrumbs (use gluten-free if needed)
• ¼ cup finely chopped onion
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1–2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce or tamari
• 1 tbsp nutritional yeast (optional but delicious)
• 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp Italian seasoning
• Salt & pepper, to taste
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil (or omit for oil-free baking)
• Your favorite marinara sauce, for serving

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Mash the chickpeas

Using a fork or food processor, mash chickpeas until mostly smooth with some texture left.

2️⃣ Mix everything together

In a bowl, combine mashed chickpeas, breadcrumbs, onion, garlic, tomato paste, soy sauce, herbs, and spices. Mix until a dough-like texture forms.
If the mixture feels too dry, add 1–2 tsp water. If too wet, add extra breadcrumbs.

3️⃣ Shape into meatballs

Roll into small balls (about 1–1½ tablespoons each).

4️⃣ Cook them your way

You can bake, air fry, or pan-sear:

• Bake: 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Air Fry: 370°F (185°C) for 12–14 minutes.
• Pan-Sear: Cook in a little oil until golden and crisp.

5️⃣ Sauce them up

Toss in warm marinara sauce or drizzle with your favorite glaze. Serve over pasta, rice, or as appetizers!

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💡 Tips & Variations

🌶️ Add chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy version.
🧀 Mix in more nutritional yeast for a cheesy, savory flavor.
🌱 Add finely chopped spinach or mushrooms for extra veggies.
🍽️ Perfect for meal prep — they store and reheat beautifully.

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✨ Protein-packed, flavorful, and unbelievably satisfying — these Vegan Chickpea Meatballs might just become your new obsession! 😋