Go Back
Vegan Lentil & Vegetable Casserole

Vegan Lentil & Vegetable Casserole

This Vegan Lentil & Vegetable Casserole is the kind of dish that warms you from the inside out. Packed with protein-rich lentils, colorful vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it’s a hearty and wholesome plant-based dinner that the whole family can enjoy. 
No ratings yet
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine American

Ingredients
  

  • Main Casserole:
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils or 2 ½ cups cooked lentils
  • 3 cups vegetable broth or water with 1 tsp bouillon
  • 1 onion finely diced
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 red bell pepper chopped
  • 2 cups spinach or kale roughly chopped
  • 1 zucchini diced (optional)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil or coconut oil for a richer flavor
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika optional, for depth
  • Salt & pepper to taste
  • Optional Topping:
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs mixed with 1 tbsp olive oil for crunch
  • 2 tbsp nutritional yeast for a cheesy, vegan topping

Instructions
 

  • Cook lentils: In a medium pot, add lentils and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 20–25 minutes, until lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain excess liquid if necessary.
  • Sauté vegetables: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened and fragrant. Stir in bell pepper, zucchini, and garlic, cooking another 3 minutes.
  • Combine base: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, and cooked lentils. Let simmer 5–7 minutes until flavors meld and mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
  • Assemble casserole: Transfer lentil mixture to a lightly greased 9×9-inch or similar baking dish. Spread evenly. If desired, sprinkle with breadcrumb–nutritional yeast topping.
  • Bake: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbling and the top is golden brown.
  • Rest & serve: Allow casserole to cool for 5 minutes before serving. The aroma will be savory and herby, with a lightly crisp top and tender, hearty interior.
Keyword Vegan Lentil & Vegetable Casserole
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!