Name: Lentil Bolognese
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; 1/2 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (optional, for umami); Cooked pasta (spaghetti, linguine, or penne), for serving; Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Lentil Bolognese is everything you love about traditional Bolognese—rich, flavorful, and deeply satisfying—but entirely meat-free. It’s packed with plant-based protein and fiber, making it both wholesome and filling. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian, or just looking to eat more plant-based meals, this recipe is a delicious way to enjoy a classic comfort food with a healthier twist. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, easy to make, and freezer-friendly.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
3 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari (optional, for umami)
Cooked pasta, for serving (spaghetti, linguine, or penne)
Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft.
Stir in the garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Add the lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, thyme, and soy sauce (if using).
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the Bolognese sauce over cooked pasta and garnish with fresh parsley or basil.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4-6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and tamari instead of soy sauce.
Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a bit of heat.
Chunky or smooth: Blend part of the sauce for a creamier texture, or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
Add mushrooms: Finely chopped mushrooms add even more umami and a meatier texture.
Herb variations: Fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme can deepen the flavor profile.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce is too thick. Microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until heated through.
Freezing: Lentil Bolognese freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils instead of dried?

Yes, but reduce the broth and cooking time accordingly since canned lentils are already cooked.

What kind of lentils work best?

Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape and texture during cooking.

Is this sauce kid-friendly?

Absolutely! It’s savory and flavorful without being spicy, making it great for all ages.

Can I use red lentils?

Red lentils cook faster and become mushier, so they’ll create a creamier sauce but with less texture.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

Yes! It keeps well and flavors deepen over time, making it perfect for batch cooking.

Can I serve this over something other than pasta?

Sure! Try it over rice, quinoa, or even baked potatoes for a hearty twist.

How can I make this oil-free?

Sauté the vegetables in water or broth instead of oil to make it oil-free.

What can I do if the sauce is too thick?

Add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Can I add wine for extra flavor?

Yes, a splash of red wine added during the sautéing phase adds depth to the sauce.

What toppings go well with this?

Vegan Parmesan, nutritional yeast, or a sprinkle of crushed walnuts add great texture and flavor.

Conclusion

Lentil Bolognese is a rich, hearty, and delicious plant-based alternative to traditional meat sauces. With wholesome ingredients, robust flavors, and versatile serving options, it’s a comforting dish that everyone can enjoy. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week, this satisfying recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite.

Lentil Bolognese

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Lentil Bolognese is a hearty, plant-based version of the classic Italian meat sauce, made with lentils, vegetables, and a rich tomato base. It’s perfect for a nutritious, satisfying meal over pasta.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 4-6 servings
Category: Pasta
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian
Diet: Vegan

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, oregano, basil, thyme, and soy sauce (if using).
Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer uncovered for 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender and sauce thickens. Stir occasionally.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve over cooked pasta and garnish with fresh herbs.

Notes

Use tamari and gluten-free pasta for a gluten-free version.
Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Blend part of the sauce for a smoother texture or leave it chunky for a rustic feel.
Chopped mushrooms add umami and a meatier texture.
Sauté in water or broth to make it oil-free.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 330
Sugar: 9g
Sodium: 520mg
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 7g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 13g
Protein: 16g
Cholesterol: 0mg