Lentil Casserole(An Excellent Vegetarian Entree)
A hearty vegetarian lentil casserole with rice and cheese, infused with herbs, perfect for a comforting, nutritious meal suitable for vegetarians and family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 cup chopped onion ⓘ
- 3/4 cup dried lentils ⓘ
- 3/4 cup dried brown rice ⓘ
- 3 ounces shredded sharp Cheddar cheese ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon thyme ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon basil ⓘ
- 1/8 teaspoon sage ⓘ
- 1/2 teaspoon oregano ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon salt ⓘ
- 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder ⓘ
- 1/4 cup water ⓘ
- 2 (10 1/2 oz.) cans low sodium chicken broth ⓘ
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a 1 1/2-quart casserole coated with cooking spray.
- Stir well to mix ingredients thoroughly.
- Add the chicken broth to the casserole and stir again.
- Cover the casserole with a lid or foil.
- Bake at 350°F for 1 1/2 hours until cooked and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, sauté the chopped onion until translucent before adding it to the casserole. You can substitute quinoa for brown rice or use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan option. If you're short on time, canned lentils can be used, but reduce the cooking time accordingly. Incorporating vegetables like spinach or carrots can enhance the nutrition and taste.
Serving Suggestions
This lentil casserole pairs beautifully with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside crusty bread or rice to soak up the delicious flavors. For a heartier option, serve with mashed potatoes or a side of Potato-Buttermilk Soup. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs can also enhance the presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the casserole in the oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes or until heated through, adding a splash of water if it seems dry. Alternatively, microwave individual portions in 1-minute intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil Casserole(An Excellent Vegetarian Entree) contains roughly 598 calories, with 24g protein, 84g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (138% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (104% of the Daily Value), and calcium (101% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2356mg per serving (102% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply assemble it, cover, and refrigerate. When ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before placing it in the oven, extending the cooking time if needed.
Is there a gluten-free option for this recipe?
Yes, to make this lentil casserole gluten-free, ensure that the chicken broth is gluten-free. You can also substitute brown rice with gluten-free grains like quinoa or rice blends that do not contain gluten.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Allow the casserole to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake in the oven until heated through, or microwave individual servings.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).