Description

This Veggie Lentil Bake is a hearty, wholesome, and satisfying meal packed with lentils, rice, and colorful vegetables, layered with melty cheddar cheese, and baked to perfection. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s comforting, nutritious, and perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep. Healthy, flavorful, and easy to customize, this bake is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

110 g red lentils (~1/2 cup)

75 g white rice (~1/4 cup)

650 ml vegetable stock (~2 1/2 cups) or 2 stock cubes dissolved in 650 ml water

1 tbsp oil

1 small leek (or 1/2 large), sliced

1 bell pepper, diced (orange, red, or your choice)

5 medium mushrooms, diced

1 small courgette (zucchini) or 1/2 large, diced

1 tsp smoked paprika

1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Black pepper, to taste

90 g grated cheddar cheese (~1 cup)

Optional Variations:

Use vegan cheese or omit cheese for a dairy-free version

Add spinach, carrots, broccoli, or cooked chickpeas

Substitute brown rice or quinoa for extra fiber

Add fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or rosemary

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Instructions

Cook the Lentils and Rice:
Boil lentils and rice in the vegetable stock for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally. During the last 5 minutes, stir constantly to prevent sticking. Let it thicken to a porridge-like consistency.
Cook the Vegetables:
Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Sauté leek, bell pepper, mushrooms, and courgette for 5–10 minutes until soft and fragrant.
Preheat the Oven:
Set oven to 190°C (375°F / Gas Mark 5).
Combine and Season:
In a large bowl, mix cooked lentils and rice with sautéed vegetables. Add smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly.
Layer and Add Cheese:
Transfer half the mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle half the grated cheddar over it. Add the remaining mixture, smooth the surface, and top with the remaining cheese.
Bake:
Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes until cheese is golden and bubbling. Serve warm.

Notes

Portion into containers for meal prep.
Avoid freezing, as vegetable texture may change.
Broil 1–2 minutes at the end for extra crispy cheese topping.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35-40 minutes
Category: Main Dish / Casserole
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Vegetarian / Comfort Food