Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes

Name: Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 55 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/4 cup butter; 1/4 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Old-Fashioned Comfort Eats

This hearty Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes is the perfect comfort food for any occasion. Packed with nutrients and flavor, it's a delightful dish that warms the soul.

Created by

Ella

Last updated on 2025-12-02T19:18:02.301Z

This Lentil Stew is not only comforting but also a nutritious powerhouse. The combination of lentils and mashed potatoes makes it a complete meal that is both filling and satisfying. Whether you're looking for a cozy dinner or meal prep for the week, this dish is sure to please.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich and hearty flavors that satisfy every craving
Nutritious and packed with protein from lentils
Comforting mashed potatoes that perfectly complement the stew
Easy to make and perfect for meal prep

      

A Nutrient-Packed Delight

Lentils are a nutritional powerhouse, offering a substantial amount of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. In this stew, they serve as the primary ingredient, providing not only a hearty texture but also a satisfying meal that can keep you full for hours. This makes lentil stew an excellent choice for vegetarians and anyone looking to boost their plant-based protein intake.

In addition to lentils, the combination of vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions adds a wealth of vitamins and minerals. Each bite delivers a burst of flavor and nutrients, making it a wholesome option for family dinners or meal prepping for the week ahead.

Comfort Food at Its Best

There's something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of stew paired with creamy mashed potatoes. The smooth, buttery potatoes act as the perfect complement to the rich, savory flavors of the lentil stew. This pairing not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a delightful balance of textures, making every spoonful a joy.

Whether you're facing a chilly evening or just need a bit of culinary comfort, this dish is sure to hit the spot. Its warmth and heartiness can easily lift your spirits and create a sense of home, making it suitable for any occasion, from casual family meals to festive gatherings.

Easy Preparation for Busy Lives

One of the best aspects of this Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes is how easy it is to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in under an hour. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Additionally, the stew can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator or freezer, enhancing its flavors over time. This means you can meal prep on the weekends and enjoy hearty, home-cooked meals throughout the week without the hassle of daily cooking.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Lentil Stew

For the Stew

1 cup lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mashed Potatoes

2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
1/4 cup butter
1/4 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Lentil Stew

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until soft, about 5 minutes.

Add minced garlic, cumin, and thyme, and cook for another minute.

Stir in the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes until lentils are tender.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the stew is cooking, boil the diced potatoes in a separate pot until tender, about 15 minutes.

Drain the potatoes and return to the pot. Add butter and milk, and mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.

Serve

Serve the lentil stew hot, topped with a generous serving of mashed potatoes. Enjoy your hearty meal!

Enjoy your delicious Lentil Stew with Mashed Potatoes!

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store any leftover lentil stew, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to freeze it, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you're ready to enjoy the stew again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to maintain its creamy consistency.

Customization Options

This lentil stew is incredibly versatile, allowing for various customization options. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables, such as bell peppers or spinach, or incorporate spices like smoked paprika or chili powder for added depth. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can blend a portion of it and stir it back in to create a creamier texture.

For added protein, consider mixing in cooked sausage or bacon for a non-vegetarian twist. Alternatively, top your stew with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving for an extra burst of freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes, this stew can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze the lentil stew?

Absolutely! The lentil stew freezes well for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

→ What can I serve with this stew?

This stew pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even some steamed vegetables.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients.