Easy Lentil Bolognese
Oct 10, 2025 12:14 PM
This Easy Lentil Bolognese is a hearty, protein-packed vegetarian dinner made with lentils, mushrooms, and your favorite marinara sauce. It’s rich, satisfying, and comes together in just 30 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights! Vegan-friendly and freezer-friendly, too!
If you’re anything like me, you’re always on the hunt for easy, flavorful dinners that feel comforting and nourishing. This Easy Lentil Bolognese is a total weeknight win. It’s one of those meals I turn to when I want something hearty without a lot of fuss, and when I want dinner on the table fast!
Bolognese is traditionally a slow-simmered meat sauce, but this version skips the meat without skimping on flavor. We’re using earthy mushrooms, canned lentils (hello, shortcut!), and a good-quality marinara to keep things simple but delicious. A splash of balsamic vinegar gives the sauce depth, and the red pepper flakes add just the right amount of warmth.
This sauce is vegetarian, and it can easily be made vegan by skipping the Parmesan. Whether you’re serving it over pasta, or twirling it into strands of spaghetti squash, or spooning it over a baked sweet potato, it’s always a hit with the whole family, including the meat-lovers!
Bonus: This sauce tastes great the next day making it a great meal prep option. It also freezes beautifully! It’s packed with protein, fiber, and veggies, and reheats like a dream. A total winner all around!
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 small carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery rib, finely diced
- 8 oz baby bella mushrooms, finely diced
- Kosher salt and black pepper, to taste
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 15 oz can lentils, rinsed and drained
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- 24 oz marinara sauce
- For serving: pasta or spaghetti squash
- For garnish: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil, optional
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cook Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
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