19 Best Vegan Comfort Food Recipes Even Your Kids Will Love (2024)

Are you in need of vegan comfort food that rivals grandma’s cooking? Yes, me too.

When I was diagnosed with chronic illness, it was important for me to focus on anti-inflammatory plant-based meals. And yep, there are a lot of bland plant-based meals out there that sent my kids running for the processed food hills.

BUT! This article delivers 19 mouthwatering vegan comfort food recipes for vegans – and non-vegans. Expect nothing less than creamy, hearty, and utterly satisfying memory-making dishes that capture comfort.

And yes, these vegan delights are so delicious they’re sure to win over your young kids and yes, EVEN your teenagers. Let’s redefine comfort food – no meat, no dairy, just pure plant-based goodness.

Key Takeaways

• Vegan comfort food recipes can be delicious and nutritious, catering to adults and kids alike with ideas such as Hearty Mushroom and Lentil Stew, Vegan Black Bean Stew, and creamy Stove Top Mac and Cheese.
• Creativity with plant-based ingredients gives you vegan versions of traditional meals, like Spaghetti with Black Bean Meatballs, Smoky Black Bean and Vegetable Chili, and Plant-Based Shepherd’s Pie.
• Vegan comfort food isn’t limited to savory dishes; sweet options such as Banana Ice Cream and the Strawberry Milkshake will give you tons of variety in your vegan recipe book.

Best Vegan Comfort Food Recipes

Let’s get the comfort started. Click on the recipe name for the recipe link. See my article on Cooking Tips for Beginners if you need some basic cooking tips.

1. Hearty Mushroom and Lentil Stew

This vegan-friendly dish is perfect for chilly nights when you want something tasty yet healthy.

Hearty mushrooms and lentils provide the perfect combination of flavor and nutrition in this stew. Not only does it give off comforting vibes, but it also offers generous amounts of protein, fiber, and vitamins.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Saute shallots and garlic until translucent
• Add veggies to soften and brown
• Toast lentils
• Add liquids, including creamy coconut milk, and simmer for 20-30 minutes.

To add hearty and healthy perfection to your plate, serve over Vegan Garlic Mashed Potatoes or put some Oven-Baked Garlic Herb Fries on the side. Doesn’t that sound delicious?

2. Vegan Black Bean Stew

I just served this as my family’s holiday party! It’s vegan comfort food that everyone will come back for. Cooking the stew takes less than an hour but will taste like you had it bubbling for hours.

It all starts with some sauteed onions, garlic, and thyme. Then comes the spices, black beans, some chopped sweet potato, broth, and coconut milk, and that’s it for work. Once done, take one bite of those tender sweet potatoes, and you will be returning for more.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Saute onions until translucent.
• Add beans, sweet potatoes, spices, and liquids, including veggie broth
• Simmer for 30 minutes

Great accompanying recipes are Vegetable broth by Medical Medium, Dairy Free Garlic Mashed Potatoes, and Gluten-Free Dinner Rolls.

3. Stove Top Mac and Cheese

This vegan mac and cheese will surely delight even the pickiest of eaters. The secret behind its smooth creaminess? A plant-based creamy sauce made from potatoes, carrots, onions, and spices. NO nutritional yeast! And it’s easy to choose gluten-free pasta!

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Steam potatoes and carrots
• Once steamed, blend with spices and broth to make the “cheese” sauce
• Combine with cooked pasta of choice, and yum!

This dairy-free vegan comfort food dish offers a delicious taste and significant health benefits from the potatoes and carrots. And best yet, it’s quick. I like to stir some thawed frozen peas for one-bowl comfort food.

4. Spaghetti and Black Bean Meatballs

If you think vegan comfort food doesn’t match traditional dishes, try this Spaghetti and Black Bean Meatballs recipe. This fantastic dish will blow you and your kids’ expectations away!

It takes the classic spaghetti with meatballs meal and elevates it into something new but equally delicious. You don’t need a lot in your pantry to pull this off; you simply need black beans, simple oats, tomato paste, and spices to make the balls. Combine this with your favorite sauce and pasta, and dinner is done.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Combine oats, beans, and spices to make the bean balls.
• Brown bean balls in a pan, then transfer to oven until crispy.
• Combine with sauce (recipe link above or use your favorite) and pasta.

Black beans became my friend due to battling severe chronic anemia – they are high in fiber and are a great source of dietary iron. And these “bean balls” (my kids love it when I call them that) are great to make ahead and freeze. Use the balls in burritos or rice bowls and have multiple plant-based protein-rich meals.

5. Smoky Black Bean and Vegetable Chili

Why not get cozy for dinner tonight with a hearty bowl of vegan Smoky Black Bean and Vegetable Chili? Why? Because it’s so easy! Another black bean delight is that you’re getting great nutrition on top of comfort in just one pot.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Saute onion, carrots, and celery until translucent
• Add spices and cook until fragrant
• Add canned tomatoes and rinsed beans and simmer for 30 minutes.
• Remove some of the chili and blend to give it that thicker chili consistency, and combine all with a topping of choice.

This delicious recipe combines beans, vegetables, and smoky spices. I love using lime juice instead of vinegar in this recipe. Top it off with some gluten-free avocado slices, onions, plus fresh cilantro to add flavor and freshness. Make sure you make enough so that you can enjoy leftovers!

6. Oven-Baked Garlic Herb Fries

When I hear the words “crispy potatoes,” I immediately feel comforted. I could eat fries at every meal, not even joking. These Oven-Baked Garlic Herb Fries offer a more wholesome way to enjoy them and are wonderfully crispy, flavorful, and simply delicious as snacks or sides!

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Cut potatoes into wedges and combine with oil and spices.
• Bake at 450°F for 20-25 minutes for the crispiest results.
• Stir halfway through cooking and cook on top of the oven rack.

For this vegan comfort food treat, you will need potatoes, such as Yukon Golds, and herbs you have on hand, like garlic powder, rosemary, or thyme.

This crispy perfection will become one of your most used vegan comfort food recipes.

7. Potato Breakfast Skillet

This vegan dish is a must-have for cozy mornings. Its flavor and tender potatoes make it delicious!

In this skillet, you’re using basic frozen hashbrown potatoes. Using avocado oil will add a wonderful buttery flavor that doesn’t make you feel greasy after you eat them.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Place additive-free frozen hash browns into a skillet with oil and cook for 5 minutes on each side. Add salt and pepper to taste.
• Once potatoes are cooked on each side, continue to store to achieve the texture you like.
• Add veggies to a separate skillet until softened and browned, not mushy.
• Combine veggies with potatoes and serve immediately.

This recipe warms your belly; its simple vegetable and herb ingredients give you energy! You will grab your favorite herbs and veggies for this one, a little bit of a kitchen sink of goodness.

8. Veggie Soy and Egg-Free Fried Rice

This Fried Rice is the answer if you’re looking for a quick and delicious vegan dinner!

This flavourful recipe contains healthy veggies on top of healthy veggies. You won’t miss the eggs or tofu either.

Make this bowl of comfort food in minutes by combining cooked rice with coconut aminos, garlic, and your desired assortment of vegetables, such as carrots, peas, broccoli, and sesame oil to boost the flavor. With its great taste and adaptability to different dietary needs, this makes one very satisfying dinner!

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• In a hot wok, add avocado oil. Once oil is hot, add veggies and saute for 4-5 minutes until softened but not mushy.
• Add precooked rice and stir frequently until warm.
• Whisk together coconut aminos, fresh garlic, and sesame oil in a small bowl; add to wok and stir to combine. Sprinkle sesame seeds and herbs for that pro chef touch!

Are you egg-free like me? Check out my Delicious Egg-Free Breakfast Ideas for what to make in the a.m.!

9. Mushroom Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Unlike other shepherd’s pies, this dinner recipe is easy and clocks in under an hour. And every minute will be worth it. This dish will be great for cold nights in front of the TV watching playoff football (or at least that will be me).

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Cook potatoes in salted boiling water. Once cooked, mash with vegan butter to make the mashed potatoes.
• Saute onions and veggies.
• Add tomato paste, spices, lentils, and liquids and simmer for 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
• Place lentil mixture into a 9×13 baking dish, cover with potatoes, and bake for 10-15 minutes until potatoes are golden brown.

You can use some store-bought vegan butter or broth, or consider using these recipes for the Vegan Butter and Healing Vegetable Broth and use them for other meals while avoiding ingredients you might not want.

10. Vegan Mexican Quinoa Stuffed Bell Peppers

Look no further than this Vegan Stuffed Bell Peppers recipe for those searching for a vegan dinner that is both filling and nutritious.

Offering an excellent blend of taste and nutrition, this could take over your taco night. Every mouthful delivers offers that satisfying yumminess; it has fiber, protein, and nutrients that will make your body hum. Skip the nutritional yeast for an even fresher flavor.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Cook quinoa in veggie broth for about 20 minutes.
• Brush bell peppers with avocado oil.
• Combine cooked quinoa with salsa, beans, corn, and spices, and stuff peppers with the quinoa mixture.
• Bake for approximately 50 minutes at 400 degrees.

11. Creamy Tomato Basil Soup

This one is another comfort food staple to add to your list of vegan comfort food recipes, and it’s also easy on time and your wallet. Clocking in at 30 minutes, you could have this savory soup to serve alongside some crusty gluten-free sourdough bread, and you’ll never miss the dairy.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Sautee onions and garlic
• Add fresh tomatoes, basil, oregano, and broth; simmer for 15 minutes.
• Use a blender and puree the mixture until smooth.
• Drizzle a vegan cream (such as coconut) and add fresh basil for garnish.

12. Coconut Jasmine Rice

If you’re cooking your rice in something other than coconut milk, you are missing out on some comfort food. It is a simple way (only five simple ingredients) to change one of the most commonly used sides completely. You can use full-fat or lite canned coconut milk, depending on the texture you like, and trust me, you won’t go back to plain rice again. Replace the garlic with minced ginger if you’re feeling extra adventurous.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Rinse jasmine rice and place in a pot with garlic and salt.
• Add coconut milk and water, bring to a boil, and simmer on low for 15 minutes.
• Remove from heat and allow to sit for another 5 minutes. Fluff with fork

13. BBQ Jackfruit Sandwiches

Indulge in a burst of flavor with this BBQ Jackfruit Sandwich recipe. Who knew the simple jackfruit could give a meaty texture while being wholly plant-based?

It’s an excellent vegan substitute for meat that makes for an incredibly delicious filling when cooked and combined with the BBQ sauce. I love that this recipe quickly has the BBQ sauce done with wholesome ingredients, too. Use your favorite bun; I bet the kids won’t notice the difference.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Blend ingredients for BBQ sauce and set aside.
• Shred drained jackfruit and saute with thinly sliced onions and salt for about 10 minutes; add water and simmer for 20 minutes. Stir in half of the BBQ sauce.
• Combine slaw ingredients while the jackfruit is cooking.
• Serve BBQ jackfruit and slaw on your favorite buns with the remaining BBQ sauce.

Lunch or dinner, meat-eaters will enjoy this tasty yet satisfying sandwich too!

14. Chickpea Veggie Sheet Pan

I love this dinner recipe because it’s so easy! And if I’m missing a herb, it’s okay; it’s easy to experiment with by adding more of another herb I have. It’s also super easy to meal prep ahead of time and store leftovers. Serve in a big bowl over some quick pre-cooked brown rice and a side of Oil-Free Hummus and YUM.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Preheat oven to 400 degrees and drain and rinse chickpeas.
• Combine chickpeas with sweet potatoes and spices and bake for 20 minutes.
• Stir chickpeas and potatoes, add chopped broccoli and onions, and bake for 15 minutes.
• Serve with tahini or hummus on the side, or toss with some greens!

15. Lentil Sloppy Joes

A vegan spin on a classic recipe, this Lentil Sloppy Joe’s recipe is filled with flavor and nutrition.

The lentils are spiced just right, making this a great lunch or dinner. Not only is this dish delicious, but you can also freeze any leftovers, so you always have something easy yet flavorful for dinner anytime.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Sautee onions and peppers until translucent, can do this without oil by using water.
• Add lentils and other ingredients, cover, and cook over low heat for about an hour.
• Serve on your favorite bun.

Serve alongside Garlic Herb Fries, and you will fall deeper in love with plant based eating.

16. Butter Cauliflower Curry

If you’re a fan of curries, then this Butter Cauliflower recipe is an absolute must-try. When my kids came home to smell this cooking on the stove, they couldn’t get a big bowl of it fast enough. Serve it over mashed potatoes, pop in a drained can of chickpeas with a side of rice, or scoop it up with some gluten-free naan bread, and you won’t have to order takeout again.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Marinate chopped cauliflower in coconut milk and spices for about 1o minutes. Bake for 18-20 minutes at 400 degrees.
• While cauliflower is cooking, saute onions, garlic and ginger. Stir in other curry spices to toast for 1-2 minutes, add canned tomatoes, and cook for 4-5 minutes.
• Turn off the heat and blend the tomato sauce mixture until smooth.
• Combine with cauliflower and cilantro, and enjoy with some naan, rice, or potatoes!

17. Vegan Mashed Potatoes

I make these dairy free mashed potatoes weekly, and my teens have now turned away from butter-laden potatoes, saying they’re “too much, like really, Mom”. The avocado oil gives you a buttery flavor, and you won’t miss the extra fat you get from milk.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Boil potatoes in salted water for about 10-15 minutes. Drain potatoes, saving at least 1 cup of potato water.
• Saute garlic and thyme in avocado oil. Add cooked potatoes and begin mashing.
• Add potato water, salt, and pepper to taste and desired creaminess.
• Use coconut milk or plant milk for extra creaminess if desired.

You can serve this plant based mashed potato recipe with just about anything.

18. Vegan Strawberry Milkshake

If you’re looking for an after-school snack that will make you the cool mom without all the guilt, then this “milk” shake will get you there. The use of coconut milk ice cubes is a trick you’ll use for any flavor combo. And the strawberries will taste like something from an old-timey soda shop. This vegan version will score you some parent points, trust me.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Pour coconut milk into an ice cube tray and freeze for at least 6 hours.
• Blend fresh strawberries, maple syrup, and vanilla until smooth
• Add 2-3 coconut ice cubes at a time and blend until you reach about 12 cubes added.
• Serve with some coconut whipped cream and mint on top!

19. Banana Ice Cream

It seems silly to link a recipe to this one, but sometimes, you need that push to get it done. You’ll never return to dairy once you go banana, and no one over 40 is rushing to the bathroom later.

Recipe Overview (click on the recipe name above for a link to the full recipe)

• Freeze 4 ripe bananas
• Blend frozen bananas on the pulse setting, adding water and one tablespoon at a time until creamy.
• Use coconut milk or other plant milk for extra creaminess if desired.

The topping options are endless on this one, and I recommend my delicious Apple Pie Topping. Again, you’ll want the vegan version over the additive-laden dairy version that costs ten times more any day.

Summary

Vegan comfort food recipes involve replacing meat and dairy and offer a way to have delicious recipes that are satisfying, filling, and full of nutrition. The best part is there’s something for everyone, including the kids! Enjoy these guilt-free treats and experiment with recipes to experience authentic vegan comfort food.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most eaten vegan food?

Popular vegan food choices can vary. Plant-based bean burgers, quinoa, lentils, chickpeas, and veggies make a delicious meal, providing vital nutrition to those who follow a vegan lifestyle.

What can I serve to vegan guests?

For a vegan dinner party, why not check out my Vegan Menu Ideas or Gluten Free Vegan Dessert Ideas posts? These recipes are sure to delight vegan guests everywhere!

How to make vegan food cheaper?

For cheap vegan dishes, be imaginative when selecting ingredients, look for bargain items like beans or lentils in stores, take advantage of sales on produce, and try out various farmers’ markets that offer affordable options. To keep costs down while maintaining convenience, you can freeze leftovers and reheat them later.

What are the top five comfort foods?

Mac and cheese, mashed potatoes, fried chicken, pizza, and burgers are the top five go-to comfort foods that tend to bring back fond memories. When eaten together or separately, these classic dishes all have a distinct, cozy feel.

Can I store and reheat Vegan Lentil Sloppy Joes for later?

It’s possible to freeze the vegan-friendly Lentil Sloppy Joes and defrost them when ready to enjoy. Simply place in your freezer until needed, then thaw before reheating for an easy, kid-friendly, and delicious meal!