This hearty lentil bolognese over spaghetti is a delicious and budget-friendly meal perfect for any night of the week. You’ll love how simple it is to make this satisfying cheap dinner recipe.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Lentils: Use green or brown lentils; red lentils will become too mushy.
- Canned Tomatoes: Crushed tomatoes work best, but diced or pureed can also be used.
- Vegetable Broth: Water can be substituted in a pinch for this cheap dinner recipe.
- Spaghetti: Any pasta shape will work!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 pound spaghetti
Optional Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 6
- Calories per serving: Approximately 450
- Tools Needed: Large pot or Dutch oven, large saucepan
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add Aromatics and Lentils
Stir in the minced garlic, oregano, basil, and thyme. Cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the rinsed lentils to the pot.
3. Simmer the Bolognese
Pour in the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Cook the Spaghetti
While the bolognese simmers, cook the spaghetti according to package directions in a separate large saucepan. Drain the spaghetti once cooked.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Spoon the hearty lentil bolognese over the cooked spaghetti. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. This makes a fantastic cheap dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas
- Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale to the bolognese during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end for extra depth of flavor.
- For a touch of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the other seasonings.
Storage Instructions
You can store leftover lentil bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to thin it out. This makes it a great meal prep option for cheap dinner recipes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I use different types of lentils?
A: Green or brown lentils are best as they hold their shape. Red lentils will break down too much.
Q: Can I freeze the lentil bolognese?
A: Yes, you can freeze the bolognese (without the spaghetti) in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Q: How can I make this dish even cheaper?
A: Buy dry lentils in bulk, use generic brand canned tomatoes, and look for sales on vegetables to keep this a truly cheap dinner recipe.
Q: What if my bolognese is too thick?
A: Add a little extra vegetable broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.
Q: Is this recipe good for meal prepping?
A: Absolutely! Cook a big batch and store it for quick and easy cheap dinner recipes throughout the week.