I Had Nothing Left, But These 29 Vegan Dinners Got Us Through

The pantry looked hopeless, the fridge even worse, and morale was about as low as cold coffee, then 29 plant-powered dinners took over. They worked in every kind of weeknight chaos, from late meetings to school project emergencies. Without being complicated or bland, they kept things running without the panic of last-minute takeout.

A plate of mushroom baked rice served next to a cast iron skillet. — Baked Mushroom Rice. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

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Vegan Ham Recipe

A glazed meatloaf with a crosshatch pattern sits on a white platter, garnished with parsley. Two slices are cut from one end. — Vegan Ham Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Sometimes you just need something unique to fill the plate. Vegan Ham Recipe brings a savory and hearty option to the table that feels fulfilling as a main course. It’s easy to slice and pairs well with simple sides for a complete meal. A creative way to mix things up when you’re out of other ideas.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Ham Recipe

Marry Me Chickpeas

Skillet with creamy chickpeas, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes, garnished with herbs. — Marry Me Chickpeas. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When meals need comfort and flavor in one, chickpeas fit right in. Marry Me Chickpeas delivers a creamy and hearty plate that feels rich without being overcomplicated. It’s versatile, pairing well with grains or bread for quick serving. A lifesaver dish that proves you don’t need much to make it work.
Get the Recipe: Marry Me Chickpeas

Vegan Alfredo Pasta

A plate of creamy fettuccine alfredo garnished with chopped parsley. — Vegan Alfredo Pasta. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy pasta dishes make dinner feel filling, even with simple ingredients. Vegan Alfredo Pasta creates a smooth sauce that covers the noodles perfectly, making every bite satisfying. It’s straightforward enough to make it into the weekly rotation without losing its appeal. A go-to meal for busy nights when you need something reliable.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Alfredo Pasta

Baked Tofu

Crispy tofu cubes piled on a plate with a dish of green dipping sauce in the background. — Baked Tofu. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Simple, versatile protein options always come through in a pinch. Baked Tofu has a crispy outer layer with a soft, flavorful interior that works as a main or in a bowl. It pairs with almost anything, making it one of the most flexible dishes to pull together. A lifesaver when nothing else is left in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Baked Tofu

Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Creamy dishes with lots of texture make meals feel thoughtful. Asparagus and White Bean Risotto combines warm and hearty bites with fresh twists for balance. It works beautifully next to roasted sides or served on its own as a complete dinner. A low-stress option that still feels fulfilling after a long day.
Get the Recipe: Asparagus and White Bean Risotto

Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Rich, nutty sauces over warm pasta bring comfort instantly. Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta offers bold, earthy flavors that coat each bite perfectly. It’s hearty enough to stand alone yet simple enough to pair with a quick side salad. A crowd-pleasing dish that works for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Italian Walnut Sauce Pasta

Homemade Ratatouille

A close up of food. — Homemade Ratatouille. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cooking veggies together into something this hearty feels like a win. Homemade Ratatouille layers tender pieces with warm flavors that come together in every bite. It’s a one-pan solution that makes use of anything fresh you have left at home. A low-maintenance meal that keeps things healthy and warm.
Get the Recipe: Homemade Ratatouille

Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Slices of meatloaf on a white plate, with visible herbs and a red glaze on top. — Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Turning a classic into a plant-based option keeps dinner interesting. Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe holds together well, slices neatly, and feels like a traditional comfort dish. It’s the kind of recipe that fits fine on its own or mixes perfectly with a side of potatoes or greens. A hearty option when the pantry is almost empty.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Lentil Meatloaf Recipe

Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Potatoes always find a way to save the meal effortlessly. Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes bring soft insides with crispy edges that everyone loves reaching for. They pair well with any protein or veggie side but work perfectly well as a stand-alone snack, too. A reliable and simple dish to ease the stress of dinner prep.
Get the Recipe: Crispy Smashed Red Skin Potatoes

Mixed Bean Chili

One-pot meals with bold, hearty flavors are easy to rely on. Mixed Bean Chili blends various textures into a thick, warm bowl that fills you up quickly. It’s great alone or over cooked grains for a complete setup, plus easy to portion out for leftovers. A go-to comfort dish for those long, tiring days.
Get the Recipe: Mixed Bean Chili

Vegan Spam

When you need something a little outside the box, this delivers. Vegan Spam is salty, savory, and slices perfectly, making it a great protein replacement at mealtime. Pair it with rice or veggies to create a meal that feels balanced yet different. A creative way to make use of pantry staples when nothing else stands out.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Spam

Sesame Soba Noodles

Two bowls of soba noodle salad with carrots, edamame, and radish slices, placed on a patterned cloth with wooden chopsticks beside them. — Sesame Soba Noodles. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Cold noodle dishes with simple flavor combinations never fail. Sesame Soba Noodles offer a mix of light textures and just enough flavor to keep them interesting and easy to eat. They store well and are great for making ahead for nights when cooking feels like too much. A no-fuss dinner that keeps everyone happy.
Get the Recipe: Sesame Soba Noodles

Ultimate Vegan Burger

A close-up of a plant-based burger with layers of creamy sauce, sliced cucumbers, red onions, and a brioche bun. — Ultimate Vegan Burger. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Burgers that skip the grill can still deliver a hearty meal. Ultimate Vegan Burger brings rich, layered flavors into every bite and pairs well with classic sides like fries or salad. It’s filling enough to be the star of the table while staying versatile for toppings. A perfect choice for nights when fast, comforting food is needed.
Get the Recipe: Ultimate Vegan Burger

Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

A black plate with white beans, tomatoes, and greens served with a piece of bread. A tray with more bread is visible beside it. — Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Skillet dinners with protein and greens make meals easy and filling. Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale combines hearty bites with fresh veggies in just one pan. It’s a wholesome option that works well with bread or over grains for extra texture. A versatile dish that feels both healthy and straightforward.
Get the Recipe: Tuscan White Bean Skillet with Kale

Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

A close-up of a pasta salad with penne, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, black olives, red onions, and seasonings in a white bowl. — Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Adding pasta to roasted vegetables creates a dinner that works for everyone. Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad blends fresh flavors with soft noodles in an easy-to-eat format. It serves well as a laid-back main or a quick grab-and-go leftover dish the next day. A flexible, balanced option for families or solo nights.
Get the Recipe: Grilled Veggies Pasta Salad

Vegan Mashed Potatoes

A bowl of mashed potatoes topped with chopped chives and black pepper. — Vegan Mashed Potatoes. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Creamy sides can easily become the whole meal when nothing else is around. Vegan Mashed Potatoes keep things smooth and flavorful with a texture everyone loves. They work as a base for quick bowls or as a comfort food option all on their own. A dependable way to make dinner fulfilling when the fridge is nearly empty.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Mashed Potatoes

Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Roasted cauliflower head cut in half, garnished with chopped parsley, on a white plate. — Roasted Whole Cauliflower. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Tossing a single vegetable in the oven to transform it into dinner feels smart. Roasted Whole Cauliflower turns simple pantry staples into something you can slice just like a roast. It’s filling, flavorful, and works as either a main or part of a bigger setup. A creative way to stretch your vegetables when options are low.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Whole Cauliflower

Lentil Bolognese

A pot of pasta with a tomato-based sauce, lentils, mushrooms, and vegetables on a light surface beside a bowl of grated cheese. — Lentil Bolognese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

When pasta feels like the only option, it’s good to have this standby. Lentil Bolognese offers a rich, hearty topping that replaces the usual meat sauce in a seamless way. It’s flavorful, thick, and pairs beautifully with garlic bread or a side salad if you have one. A simple yet delicious dinner that helps use up leftover pantry staples.
Get the Recipe: Lentil Bolognese

Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Casseroles make stretching simple ingredients into a full meal so much easier. Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole brings creamy textures and a rich, sweet flavor all baked in one pan. It’s a great option for sharing or saving extras for a quicker meal the following day. A dish that delivers plenty of warmth without much effort.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Sweet Potato Casserole

Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

A bowl of creamy pasta garnished with herbs, with a slice of bread on the side; a skillet and a small bowl of roasted vegetables are in the background. — Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Baked pasta dishes with creamy sauces are always dependable for dinner. Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese keeps things rich and hearty without adding in anything too heavy. It’s easy to layer and bake, making it perfect for busy nights when a quick oven dish saves the day. A warm plate that works for kids and adults alike.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Pumpkin Mac and Cheese

Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl

Bowls loaded with small, familiar elements make meals fast and flexible. Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl combines crispy bites with fresh side options that mix and match beautifully. You can build the bowl the way you want, making it perfect for multiple servings or picky preferences. A quick fix when you need variety without extra work.
Get the Recipe: Easy Vegan Falafel Bowl

Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

Tofu Vegetable Noodle Stir Fry. Photo Credits: Two City Vegans — Tofu Vegan Stir Fry. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Stir-fries deliver on flavor and speed while keeping things interesting. Tofu Vegan Stir Fry adds crispy bites to your veggies, giving you a mix of textures and savory flavors. It’s perfect over rice or noodles and comes together quickly for last-minute dinners. A reliable choice when you need something healthy in a hurry.
Get the Recipe: Tofu Vegan Stir Fry

Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

A plate of tacos with red cabbage and cauliflower slaw. — Roasted Cauliflower Tacos. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Tacos don’t have to include meat to hold their own at the dinner table. Roasted Cauliflower Tacos use a warm, smoky filling that pairs great with toppings or standalone sauces. The handheld format makes them fun to eat while keeping your meal interesting. A creative way to build tacos without anything fancy in the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Roasted Cauliflower Tacos

Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Pasta with a bright red sauce feels bold and immediately comforting. Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta coats your noodles in a smooth layer of rich flavor that’s hard to pass up. It works on its own or with a piece of bread to clean the plate. A foolproof dinner for when you need something fast yet deeply rewarding.
Get the Recipe: Creamy Vegan Red Pepper Pasta

Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

A gochujang cabbage steak on a bed of white rice. — Gochujang Cabbage Steaks. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Bold cabbage cuts are a surprising hit for pleasing meals. Gochujang Cabbage Steaks bring smoky, tangy flavors to the plate while keeping vegetables at the center. They’re great as a main but pair easily with grains or a side salad for variety. A fun new way to flavor veggies when you feel like switching things up.
Get the Recipe: Gochujang Cabbage Steaks

Best Vegan Chili

Close-up of a bowl of chili, topped with chopped cilantro, sliced red onions, and a dollop of sour cream. The chili contains beans, tomatoes, and other visible vegetables. — Best Vegan Chili. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Hearty bowls of chili make feeding everyone simple and fuss-free. Best Vegan Chili layers bold flavors and lots of texture into one steamy, cozy dish. It’s filling alone or perfect for topping baked potatoes or rice for a quick stretch. A no-fail dinner for any night when you need food that sticks and warms you up.
Get the Recipe: Best Vegan Chili

Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Sweet corn risotto in a skillet on a wooden cutting board. — Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Risotto dinners balance richness with simplicity in a way few meals can match. Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto creates creamy bites with natural hints of sweetness that blend beautifully. It works just as well as a main or paired with roasted veggies for added texture. A quick and gentle option that feels both easy and thoughtful during dinner.
Get the Recipe: Sweet Corn and Leek Risotto

Vegan Lasagna

Close-up of a slice of vegetable lasagna showing layers of pasta, assorted vegetables, ricotta cheese, and tomato sauce with a breadcrumb topping. — Vegan Lasagna. Photo credit: Two City Vegans.

Layered dishes bring plenty of texture and flavor without much added effort. Vegan Lasagna is warm, rich, and stackable, so it works for families or just easy leftover slices the next day. It’s a classic dinner that’s just as comforting when made plant-based. A crowd-friendly addition to any meal plan when options feel limited.
Get the Recipe: Vegan Lasagna

Baked Mushroom Rice

One-pot meals that combine good textures and bold flavors make dinner stress-free. Baked Mushroom Rice layers tender bites with warm, earthy flavors that soak into the grains. It’s simple to prepare but leaves a rich, filling impression on whoever’s eating it. A practical dish that feels flavorful enough to stand alone.
Get the Recipe: Baked Mushroom Rice