Pecan No-Meatloaf and Mushroom Gravy Recipe
This Pecan No‑Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy is a rich, comforting vegetarian twist on the classic meatloaf dinner. Packed with pecans, brown rice, shallots, herbs, dried cranberries, and a savory umami base from soy sauce and olive oil, this no‑meat meatloaf bakes into a satisfying, sliceable loaf with deep flavor and hearty texture. Paired with a velvety mushroom‑pecan gravy, this dish captures the warmth of traditional comfort food—without any meat. If you’re searching for a vegetarian meatloaf recipe, a pecan loaf, or a plant‑based comfort food centerpiece, this recipe is nourishing, aromatic, and crowd‑pleasing.
The Inspiration
Inspired by the versatility of plant‑based proteins and the depth of pecans, host Robert Jewell transforms nuts, rice, and aromatics into a loaf that rivals classic meat‑based versions in both flavor and comfort. Pecans provide natural richness and a slightly buttery, smoky note when baked. Brown rice adds hearty texture and structure, while shallots, thyme, rosemary, and soy sauce deliver savory depth often associated with traditional meatloaf.
The mushroom gravy—made with portobello mushrooms, herbs, pecans, and vegetable stock—creates a silky finishing touch reminiscent of holiday sauces and cozy winter meals. In the Pecans & Peppers episode of A Is For Apple 2, this dish celebrates the earthy sweetness of pecans and proves that vegetarian meals can be just as indulgent and flavor‑forward as their meat‑based counterparts.
Ingredients
Mushroom Gravy
- ¼ cup (60ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 2 cups (480ml) portobello mushrooms, cleaned and chopped
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon (5ml) fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ cup (120ml) pecans, roasted
- 4 cups (960ml) vegetable stock
- Salt and pepper
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add mushrooms, onions, thyme and rosemary, and cook for 8-10 minutes stirring occasionally, until onions and mushrooms are golden brown and soft.
- Add pecans, and continue cook and stirring for 2-3 minutes.
- Stir in vegetable stock and bring mixture to a boil.
- Cook gravy for 18-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until gravy thickens.
- Transfer pan contents to a food processor and blend until smooth.
- Strain gravy through a mesh sieve and season with salt and pepper.
- Reserve for plating.
Ingredients
Pecan No-Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy
- 1 cup (240ml) panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cups (480ml) pecans, chopped
- 2 cups (480ml) brown rice, cooked
- 2 large shallots, minced
- 1 ½ cups (360ml) 1% milk
- 4 eggs, beaten
- 1 tablespoon (15ml) fresh thyme, chopped
- ½ tablespoon (8ml) fresh rosemary, chopped
- ½ cup (120ml) dried cranberries, chopped
- 3 tablespoons (45ml) olive oil
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons (30ml) honey
- Salt and pepper
Method
- Preheat oven to 325 degrees.
- In a large mixing bowl, stir together panko breadcrumbs, pecans, cooked brown rice, shallots, milk, eggs, thyme, rosemary, dried cranberries, olive oil, fresh parsley, soy sauce, and honey.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer mixture to a deep greased loaf pan and cook for 80 minutes, or until meatloaf is completely firm and a toothpick comes out clean.
- Remove meatloaf from the oven and remove from loaf pan.
- Cut loaf into thick slices and serve warm with reserved Mushroom Gravy.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Pecan No‑Meatloaf warm with a generous drizzle of the silky mushroom gravy. For a complete comfort‑food meal, pair it with roasted carrots, garlic mashed potatoes, green beans, or a crisp side salad. It also shines alongside wild rice pilaf or sautéed spinach for a lighter option. This recipe makes an excellent vegetarian centerpiece for holiday dinners, Sunday suppers, or cozy winter meals. Complement the nutty richness with a glass of Pinot Noir, dry cider, or herbal tea. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make great sandwiches layered with greens and extra gravy.
Final Thoughts
This Pecan No‑Meatloaf with Mushroom Gravy is proof that plant‑based dishes can be hearty, flavorful, and deeply comforting. With its combination of pecans, herbs, rice, cranberries, and a luscious mushroom gravy, it delivers the full satisfaction of a classic meatloaf—just without the meat. Host Robert Jewell brings out the versatility of pecans in this Pecans & Peppers episode, turning them into a beautifully textured centerpiece that’s perfect for vegetarians and meat‑eaters alike.
Find more recipes from A is for Apple here!
Follow us on Instagram and YouTube for behind-the-scene footage and exclusive content!