Lentil Skillet Supper
A hearty and comforting lentil skillet supper combining tender lentils, rice, and vegetables, topped with melted Cheddar cheese. This dish offers a savory flavor profile perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, appealing to those who enjoy wholesome, cheesy, and satisfying meals in under an hour.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add carrot, lentils, and green onions; cook, stirring constantly, for 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add chicken broth and rice; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes, until liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff with a fork.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle with shredded Cheddar cheese.
- Cover; let stand for 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing garlic or onion with the carrots. If you want a quicker alternative, canned lentils can be used; just reduce the cooking time. You can substitute quinoa or bulgur for the brown rice. To enhance the dish, add spices like cumin or smoked paprika. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the lentil skillet supper as a hearty main dish, perfect for a cozy family meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad, such as Chicken-Apple Salad, or crusty bread. For a complete dinner, consider serving with steamed vegetables or a light dessert to balance the meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth and microwave in 30-second intervals, stirring in between, until heated through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad topping.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lentil Skillet Supper contains roughly 262 calories, with 10g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (121% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. It also contributes 7g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 use other types of lentils for this recipe?
Yes, you can use green or black lentils, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils cook faster and may become mushy, so adjust the liquid and cooking time accordingly. Experimenting with different lentils can add unique textures and flavors to the dish.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! To make it vegan, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the cheese or use a plant-based cheese alternative. This will maintain the dish's heartiness while accommodating a vegan diet.
How can I increase the protein content of this recipe?
To boost the protein, you can mix in cooked chicken or turkey after the lentils are done. Additionally, adding a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking will provide extra nutrients and protein without compromising the dish's flavor.
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).