Top 10 vegetarian family comfort food recipes
We've devised hearty, meat-free family meals, from cheesy traybakes to vegetarian versions of classics like toad-in-the-hole.
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It can be difficult finding simple, filling meals the whole family will love, especially when you're pressed for time. If you're also trying to cut down on meat and need inspiration for cooking veggie dinners, these revamped classics are the answer to your midweek prayers. Go for a hearty shepherd's pie filled with lentils, topped with creamy mash, or why not try something a little different like our simple halloumi traybake. Take a look at our vegetarian kids recipe collection for more vibrant, veg-packed dishes.
Discover our full range of summer comfort food recipes, storecupboard comfort food recipes and freezable comfort food recipes. You can also check out some of our healthy comfort food recipes and vegan comfort food recipes.
10 vegetarian family comfort food recipes
1. Healthier veggie carbonara
Keep the core of this cheesy pasta feast the same, then pile on the veggies for a colourful, Italian-style plateful. Our meat-free carbonara can be on the table in 30 minutes and uses egg yolks – not cream – to create a silky sauce that's rich with savoury flavour. If you have time, try serving it with our super simple cheese & garlic pull-apart loaf.
Browse our family pasta recipes for more mouthwatering mac 'n' cheese ideas and sumptuous spaghetti dishes.
2. Halloumi traybake
Our cheesy halloumi traybake might look decadent but it packs in a whopping four of your five-a-day. Serve up a colourful selection of peppers, onion, broccoli, tomatoes and chickpeas. Start off by putting baby potatoes in the oven, then add your veg and lay the halloumi on top before finishing under the grill for a winning dinner.
Discover even more halloumi-stuffed wraps, sandwiches and salads with our collection of halloumi recipes .
3. Veggie toad-in-the-hole
Your cooking repertoire wouldn't be complete without knowing how to make perfect Yorkshire puddings, an essential part of our veggie toad-in-the-hole. Simply substitute the usual pork sausages for a high-quality vegetarian version and serve with a selection of classic British veg for the ultimate Sunday dinner. You can also partner this recipe with our crunchy polenta roasties, caramelised honey carrots and a rich veggie gravy which uses a spoonul of Marmite for a savoury hit.
Take a look at our top tips for making Yorkies.
4. Mini lentil shepherd's pies
It's a fact universally acknowledged that everything is better when topped with mashed potato – and these mini lentil shepherd's pies are no exception. Get the kids involved in piping on the mash, or fluffing it into peaks with a fork. Again, a little bit of Marmite is great for adding an umami depth of flavour to your lentil mix. You can even freeze your pies to whip out for speedy weeknight suppers. Serve them up with fresh peas.
Check out our lentil recipes for more ideas with this protein-packed pulse.
5. Loaded baked potatoes with slaw
Combine classic baked tatties, creamy yogurt and lashings of strong cheddar and what do you get? Good Food's loaded baked potatoes. These warming wonders feel super indulgent and will also help you on the way to getting your five-a-day. Serve them with a sprinkling of fresh chives and a healthy helping of crunchy carrot and cabbage slaw.
Liven up your spuds with more of our baked potato recipes.
6. Sweet potato and peanut curry
A veggie spin on the popular Asian classic which everyone at the table will enjoy – packed with flavour from the Thai red curry paste and the ginger, this dish is a sure winner. You can find even more wholesome and nutritious meals with these vegetarian mains. This sweet potato and peanut curry is perfect for feeding a hungry family.
Discover more flavourful dishes in our collection of vegetarian curry recipes.
7. Next level ratatouille
Seasonal vegetables are all slow-cooked together in a family-friendly dish that truly celebrates summer and serves up to six. Serve this next level ratatouille with bread of your choice, or for a more substantial family dinner, as a side with barbecued or roasted meat or fish.
8. Gnocchi & tomato bake
You can never go wrong with an oozing and cheesy gnocchi bake on the table, so why not give this comforting veggie main, packed with rich Italian flavours, a go for dinner tonight? Our gnocchi & tomato bake makes a filling family supper and is ready in just half an hour.
Find more comforting gnocchi recipes.
9. Tomato & mascarpone risotto
There's little more comforting than a rich and creamy risotto. This flavoursome cherry tomato & mascarpone risotto uses just a handful of ingredients but the flavour really intensifies through the cooking process. Follow our instructions for achieving the perfect texture, so that the risotto has a thick, creamy consistency yet maintains some bite.
Check out more ideas in our collection of vegetarian risotto recipes.
10. Spinach & ricotta cannelloni
This family-friendly spinach and ricotta cannelloni is guaranteed to keep everyone satisfied thanks to its creamy and comforting Italian-style flavours. You could double up or keep a few portions of this vegetarian classic in the freezer and you'll never be stuck for a satisfying supper.
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What's your favourite meat-free comfort food? Leave a comment below...
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