A creamy, cheesy, and hearty lentil lasagna bake that is comforting and perfect for a meatless dinner.
Author:Caroline Jones
Prep Time:30 minutes
Cook Time:30 minutes
Total Time:1 hour
Yield:6 servings 1x
Category:Main Course
Method:Baked
Cuisine:Italian
Diet:Vegetarian
Ingredients
Scale
1 1/2 cups dried green or brown lentils
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
9 lasagna noodles (or gluten-free alternative)
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4 cup grated parmesan (or vegetarian hard cheese)
For the béchamel:
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups milk
Salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg
Instructions
Rinse and cook lentils in water until tender (about 20 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Heat olive oil in a pan, sauté onion and garlic until soft. Stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes. Fold in lentils.
For béchamel: melt butter in a saucepan, whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute. Slowly add milk, whisking constantly until thickened. Season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
Cook lasagna noodles according to package. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a baking dish, layer lentil sauce, noodles, and béchamel. Repeat for 2 layers. Top with cheese.
Bake for 25–30 minutes or until bubbling and golden. Rest for 10 minutes before slicing. Garnish with parsley.
Notes
Serve with a side of arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette.
Add chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Pair with garlic bread or crusty sourdough.
Use red lentils for a softer filling, green for more texture.
Make it vegan by swapping dairy for plant-based milk, butter, and cheese.
Can be made a day ahead and reheated — flavors deepen overnight.