Some nights, cooking just feels like a chore. You’re tired, hungry, and the last thing you want is to spend an hour chopping, sautéing, and waiting around for dinner to be done.
That’s exactly why I put together this list of 15 vegetarian dinners you can make in 20 minutes or less.
Whether you're plant-based, doing Meatless Mondays, or just looking for some quick and healthy ideas, these meals are fast, flavorful, and satisfying. No complicated ingredients. No weird techniques. Just real food you can throw together when life is busy.
Let’s make dinnertime easier.
1. Easy Puttanesca Pasta
This one’s so good and comes together fast. The sauce is made with simple ingredients—tomatoes, olives, capers, and garlic—but the flavor is rich and bold. It’s one of those meals I keep coming back to, whether it’s for dinner, lunch, or even meal prep. Totally vegan and super satisfying.
2. 20-Minute Veggie Chili
When I need something warm, filling, and healthy fast, this chili never lets me down. It’s packed with veggies, uses pantry staples, and comes together in under 20 minutes. Perfect for those nights when you want comfort food without the wait.
3. Crispy Veggie Tostadas
These are such a fun and easy dinner—like a crunchy taco, but flat. I layer refried beans, fresh veggies, salsa, and a little cheese on crispy tostada shells for a super quick meal. You can customize them with whatever you have on hand, and they’re always a hit.
4. One Pot Chili Mac & Cheese
This is one of those dinners I make when I don’t feel like cooking but still want something really good. It’s hearty, cheesy, and super easy—all made in one pot. No fancy steps, just simple ingredients that come together fast. Total comfort food, and no one ever misses the meat.
5. Instant Pot Veggie Lo Mein
If you’ve got an Instant Pot, this one’s a must-try. It’s vegan, packed with flavor, and comes together in just 20 minutes. I love how easy it is—toss everything in, let it cook, and dinner’s done. Tastes better than takeout and way faster too.
6. Quick Curry Ramen with Veggies
20 minutes and done—this curry ramen is such a go-to in my kitchen. It’s warm, flavorful, and packed with veggies, so it feels like a comfort meal and a healthy one. The curry gives it a nice kick, and it always hits the spot.
7. One Pot Mushroom Stroganoff
This one’s so simple but feels like something special. The mushrooms get nice and savory, and the sauce turns out perfectly creamy every time. All in one pot and ready fast—you really don’t need much to make a dinner that tastes this good.
8. Creamy Lentil Pasta with Spinach & Mushrooms
On busy nights, I love making something healthy that still feels hearty—and this pasta does just that. It’s vegan, gluten-free, and high in protein thanks to the lentils. The creamy tahini sauce, fresh spinach, and mushrooms come together fast, and it’s ready in just 20 minutes.
9. Easy Garlic Butter Pasta
When I want something fast and comforting, this is my go-to. Just a handful of ingredients—pasta, garlic, butter, and maybe a sprinkle of parmesan—and it’s done in minutes. It’s simple, satisfying, and always hits the spot.
10. Easy Vegetarian Chickpea Gyros
I threw these together one night when I didn’t know what to make—and now they’re a regular in my kitchen. The chickpeas get perfectly seasoned, and wrapped up with fresh veggies and sauce in warm pita, they’re just so good. Quick, filling, and totally meat-free.
11. Creamy Spicy Tomato Pasta
I always keep the ingredients for this one on hand. It’s simple but so satisfying—a creamy tomato sauce made with canned tomatoes, a little vegan cream cheese, parmesan, and lots of garlic. The chili flakes give it just enough heat to keep things interesting. Perfect for a quick, cozy dinner.
12. Vegan Lentil Tortilla Soup
Weeknights feel a lot easier with meals like this. It’s creamy, hearty, and comes together in just 20 minutes with ingredients I usually already have at home. The lentils make it filling, the spices bring the flavor, and the tortilla chips on top? Always a good idea.
13. Vegan Pineapple Fried Rice
Craving something a little different but still easy? This sweet and savory fried rice is one of my favorite go-tos. The pineapple adds a fun twist, and the tamari sauce pulls it all together. It’s healthy, filling, and makes the best leftovers for lunch the next day.`
14. 15-Minute Gyoza Chili Noodle Soup
When I’m short on time but still want something warm and flavorful, this soup is a favorite. The broth is spicy and comforting, and the vegan gyozas make it feel extra special. It comes together fast and always hits the spot—especially on chilly nights.
15. One Pot Broccoli Parmesan Orzo
Some nights just call for something quick, creamy, and full of flavor—and this orzo dish checks all the boxes. The lemon and broccoli keep it light, while the parmesan makes it feel extra comforting. Ready in 20 minutes and all in one pot... what's not to love?
Final Thoughts
Eating vegetarian doesn’t have to mean spending hours in the kitchen. These meals are proof that you can have something healthy, filling, and full of flavor on the table fast—even on your busiest nights.
Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding your family, I hope these quick dinner ideas make your evenings a little easier (and a lot tastier). Save your favorites, try a new one, and don’t forget to pin for later!