Baked Lentil Casserole
A comforting and savory vegan casserole with tender brown lentils, fresh vegetables, and herbs. Topped with a golden, crispy breadcrumb crust, it's a wholesome plant-based meal made from scratch.
For 4 servings
5 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Preheat oven and prepare the flax egg
- b.Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease an 8x8 inch baking dish.
- c.In a small bowl, whisk together the flaxseed meal and 3 tablespoons of water.
- d.Set the mixture aside for 5-10 minutes to thicken into a gel-like consistency. This is your flax egg.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Sauté the vegetables and aromatics
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, until the vegetables have softened.
- d.Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Build flavor and cook the lentils
- b.Stir in the finely chopped tomatoes, fresh thyme, and fresh rosemary. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes break down and the mixture thickens.
- c.Add the rinsed lentils, 3 cups of water, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together.
- d.Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed most of the liquid.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Assemble and bake the casserole
- b.Remove the pot from the heat and stir in the prepared flax egg until well combined.
- c.Transfer the lentil mixture to your prepared baking dish and spread it into an even layer.
- d.Sprinkle the gluten-free panko breadcrumbs evenly over the top.
- e.Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the casserole is bubbly and the breadcrumb topping is golden brown and crisp.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Rest and serve
- b.Remove the casserole from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes. This helps it set.
- c.Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For a richer flavor, add 1 cup of finely chopped mushrooms along with the other vegetables.
- 2Don't skip the resting time! It allows the casserole to firm up, making it easier to serve.
- 3Ensure your lentils are well-rinsed to remove any dust or debris before cooking.
- 4Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The casserole reheats well.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Stir in 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa or chopped walnuts into the lentil mixture before baking for added protein and texture.
healthyHealthy
To add more greens, wilt 2 cups of fresh spinach into the lentil mixture at the end of the stovetop cooking time.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Finely grate the carrots and celery to make them less noticeable for picky eaters. You can also top with a layer of dairy-free cheese before the breadcrumbs.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Plant-Based Protein
Lentils are an excellent source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
High in Dietary Fiber
The combination of lentils and vegetables provides a significant amount of fiber, which aids digestion, promotes gut health, and helps maintain stable blood sugar levels.
Packed with Vitamins and Minerals
Carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes offer a wide range of essential nutrients, including Vitamin A, Vitamin C, and potassium, supporting vision, immunity, and heart health.
Heart-Healthy
This dish is low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free. The fiber and potassium from the lentils and vegetables contribute to cardiovascular health.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is very healthy. It's packed with plant-based protein and fiber from lentils, and full of vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. Using fresh ingredients and minimal salt makes it a nutritious choice.