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Cheesy Lentil Bake Comfort Food

A close-up of a hearty slice of Cheesy Lentil Bake Comfort Food with a deeply browned, bubbly cheese crust.
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A hearty, savory baked casserole featuring lentils covered in a rich, cheesy sauce and baked until golden brown. This is a satisfying vegetarian comfort dish.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 cup dry red wine (optional)
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus 1/4 cup for topping
  • 1 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Lightly grease an 8×8 inch baking dish.
  2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 to 7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, and rosemary. If using, pour in the red wine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, Gruyère cheese, and cheddar cheese until the cheese melts and the mixture is creamy. Season generously with salt and pepper.
  6. Transfer the lentil mixture to the prepared baking dish.
  7. In a small bowl, mix the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese with the breadcrumbs, if using. Sprinkle this mixture evenly over the top of the lentils.
  8. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a vegan version, substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a plant-based cheese blend that melts well. Omit the Parmesan or use a vegan Parmesan substitute.
  • You can add 1 cup of frozen peas or chopped mushrooms when you add the lentils for extra vegetables.
  • This bake reheats well. Store leftovers covered in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Serve this bake with a simple green salad dressed with vinaigrette or steamed green beans.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookifyme.com/cheesy-lentil-bake-comfort-food/