Savory Herb Lentil Bake

Baked Lentil Casserole Recipe

Overview

This Baked Lentil Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish, perfect for a wholesome meat-free dinner or as a satisfying side. Packed with lentils, vegetables, and a blend of savory herbs, it’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare. With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a total cooking time of 1 hour and 20 minutes, it’s ideal for busy weeknights or potluck gatherings.

Ingredients

• Water: 2 1/4 cups
• Dry lentils: 1 3/4 cups
• Onion: 1, chopped
• Carrots: 2, diced
• Celery: 2 stalks, chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Salt: 1 teaspoon
• Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
• Dried marjoram: 1/8 teaspoon
• Rubbed sage: 1/8 teaspoon
• Dried thyme: 1/8 teaspoon
• Bay leaf: 1
• Fresh tomatoes: 2, chopped
• Cheddar cheese: 10 ounces, shredded

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).

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2. Prepare the casserole: In a 13×9 inch baking dish, combine water, lentils, chopped onion, diced carrots, chopped celery, minced garlic, salt, pepper, marjoram, sage, thyme, and bay leaf.

3. Bake covered: Cover the dish and bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes.

4. Add tomatoes: Remove from the oven and stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes.

5. Continue baking: Recover the casserole and bake for an additional 15 minutes.

6. Add cheese: Remove from the oven again and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top.

7. Final baking: Bake uncovered for 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

8. Serve: Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf from the casserole.

Tips and Serving Suggestions

• Flavor Enhancement: The combination of marjoram, sage, and thyme adds a robust, herbaceous flavor to the lentil casserole. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences.

• Cheese Variations: If you prefer a different cheese, such as mozzarella or a dairy-free option, feel free to substitute it for the cheddar.

• Side Dish Option: Serve this casserole alongside a fresh green salad dressed with vinaigrette for a complete and balanced meal.

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 316.6
• Total Fat: 12.4g
  • Saturated Fat: 7.6g
• Cholesterol: 37.2mg
• Sodium: 536.2mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 31.6g
  • Dietary Fiber: 14.3g
  • Sugar: 4g
• Protein: 20.5g

Reviews and Rating

• Rating: 4.5 stars out of 5
• Review Count: 9

Recipe Keywords

Lentil, Beans, Potluck, Weeknight, Oven, Less than 4 Hours

This Baked Lentil Casserole is not only nutritious and satisfying but also versatile enough to serve as a main dish or a side. It combines the health benefits of lentils with the comforting flavors of herbs and cheese, making it a favorite for both family dinners and gatherings with friends.