Save Savor a bold, plant-based twist on two American comfort classics with these Vegan Cheeseburger Lentil Sloppy Joes. This hearty mashup combines the juicy, savory flavors of a traditional cheeseburger with the robust texture of seasoned lentils, all served over golden toasted sourdough. Drizzled with a luscious, creamy vegan cheese sauce, this meal offers a satisfying experience that is both nourishing and indulgent.
Save This dish is perfect for those seeking a comforting meal that doesn't skip on depth. The blend of smoked paprika, cumin, and tangy Worcestershire sauce ensures the lentil base is packed with umami, making it a hit for vegans and meat-eaters alike.
Ingredients
- Lentil Sloppy Joe Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 green bell pepper, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 ½ cups cooked brown or green lentils (about 1/2 cup dry)
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon vegan Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon yellow mustard
- 2 tablespoons ketchup
- 1 tablespoon maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Vegan Cheese Sauce
- ½ cup raw cashews, soaked in hot water for 20 minutes and drained (or sub 1/2 cup sunflower seeds for nut-free)
- 1 cup unsweetened plant-based milk
- 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon turmeric (for color)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch or arrowroot powder (optional, for extra thickness)
- Assembly
- 4 large slices sourdough bread
- Vegan butter or olive oil, for toasting
- 1 small red onion, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- 1 dill pickle, thinly sliced (for garnish)
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives (optional)
Instructions
- 1. Prepare the Lentil Sloppy Joe Base
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and bell pepper; sauté 4–5 minutes until softened. Add garlic; cook 1 minute. Stir in cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, mustard, ketchup, maple syrup, smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Simmer uncovered for 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and flavors meld. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- 2. Make the Vegan Cheese Sauce
- In a blender, combine soaked cashews, plant milk, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, turmeric, salt, and cornstarch (if using). Blend until completely smooth. Pour mixture into a small saucepan and heat over medium, whisking constantly, until thickened and melty, 3–5 minutes. Add a splash more milk if too thick.
- 3. Toast the Sourdough
- Brush both sides of each sourdough slice with vegan butter or olive oil. Toast in a skillet over medium heat or under a broiler until golden and crisp on both sides.
- 4. Assemble
- Place each toasted sourdough slice on a plate. Spoon a generous portion of the lentil sloppy joe mixture over each slice. Drizzle with warm vegan cheese sauce. Top with sliced red onion, pickles, and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best results, ensure your lentils are cooked but still firm so they maintain their texture within the sauce. When making the cheese sauce, whisking constantly while heating is key to achieving a smooth, melty consistency without any clumps.
Varianten und Anpassungen
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply swap the sourdough for your favorite gluten-free bread. For added depth and umami, try adding sautéed mushrooms or grated carrot to the lentil mixture. If you prefer a spicier profile, include diced jalapeños or your favorite hot sauce.
Serviervorschläge
Serve these sloppy joes open-faced while the bread is crisp and the sauce is warm. They pair beautifully with a crisp lager or a glass of sparkling water with a squeeze of fresh lemon for a light, refreshing contrast.
Save Whether you are enjoying a cozy night in or feeding the family, these Vegan Cheeseburger Lentil Sloppy Joes are a hearty, satisfying solution. Enjoy the perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and creamy flavors in every bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → How can I make the lentil base spicier?
Add diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering step to enhance the heat.
- → What can I substitute for cashews in the cheese sauce?
Use soaked sunflower seeds to keep the sauce nut-free while maintaining creaminess.
- → Is it possible to prepare this gluten-free?
Yes, simply swap sourdough bread with your preferred gluten-free bread to accommodate dietary needs.
- → Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
The vegan cheese sauce can be blended and refrigerated up to two days before, then gently reheated before serving.
- → How do I get the thickest cheese sauce consistency?
Incorporate cornstarch or arrowroot powder as an optional thickener and heat gently while whisking until melty and thick.