Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon

One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4 from 11 reviews

  • Author: Emma
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce is a quick, hearty, and comforting meal featuring al dente pasta cooked directly in a flavorful tomato and lentil sauce. The combination of garlic, Italian herbs, tomato paste, and tender lentils creates a rich base, while melted cheddar cheese adds a creamy, cheesy finish. Easy to prepare in just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for a satisfying dinner with minimal cleanup.

Ingredients

For the Lentil Tomato Sauce

  • 5 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tsp mixed Italian herbs
  • 1 can green or brown lentils, drained (14 oz / 400 g)
  • 2 Tbsp tomato paste
  • 2 cans chopped or whole tomatoes (14 oz / 400 g each)
  • 1/2 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 tsp brown sugar

For the Pasta and Cheese

  • 300 g dried pasta
  • 170 g grated cheddar cheese

Instructions

  1. Sauté Aromatics: In a large pan, sauté the minced garlic over medium heat until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes. Add the mixed Italian herbs and drained lentils, stirring well to combine and cooking for another minute to meld the flavors.
  2. Make Tomato Sauce: Add the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, and brown sugar to the pan. Stir well to form a rich tomato sauce base.
  3. Add Pasta and Water: Add the dried pasta to the sauce. Using one and a half of the tomato cans as a measurement, fill with water and pour it into the pan, ensuring the pasta is covered.
  4. Simmer Pasta: Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook the pasta for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring regularly to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking until the pasta is al dente.
  5. Adjust Sauce Consistency: Monitor the sauce thickness as the pasta cooks. If the sauce thickens too much before pasta is cooked, gradually add more water. If the sauce is thin when pasta is done, either simmer uncovered to reduce liquid or add more tomato paste to thicken.
  6. Finish with Cheese: Once pasta is cooked to perfection, stir in the grated cheddar cheese until it melts into a creamy sauce. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use quick-cooking pasta varieties for best timing results as water quantities are adjusted accordingly.
  • If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer longer uncovered or add extra tomato paste.
  • Feel free to swap cheddar for another melting cheese like mozzarella or gouda for a different flavor.
  • Drain lentils well to prevent excess liquid in the sauce.
  • This dish can be kept warm on low heat after cooking but cheese is best melted fresh before serving.
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Find it online: https://myeasyplate.com/one-pot-pasta-with-cheesy-lentil-sauce-recipe/