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Best Ever Lentil Bolognese (Even Meat Lovers Will Approve)

This hearty, savory Lentil Bolognese is a rich, comforting plant-based take on the Italian classic. Made with brown or green lentils, vegetables, and aromatic herbs, it's the perfect dish to satisfy meat lovers and vegetarians alike. Serve it over pasta, rice, or veggies for a high-protein, flavor-packed meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 35 minutes
Total Time 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Dinner, Main Course, Plant Based, Vegan
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired, Mediterranean
Calories: 285
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Bolognese Sauce:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 4 garlic cloves minced
  • 1½ cups dried brown or green lentils rinsed
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp smoked paprika
  • ½ tsp dried thyme
  • ½ tsp dried oregano
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 28 oz can crushed tomatoes
  • 3 cups vegetable broth plus more as needed
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
For Serving (Optional):
  • Cooked pasta of choice
  • Fresh basil or parsley chopped
  • Vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast

Equipment

  • Large skillet or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Chef’s knife
  • Cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Ladle or serving spoon

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft.
  2. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Stir and cook for 1–2 minutes.
  4. Add lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low. Cover and simmer for 30–35 minutes until lentils are tender.
  5. Remove lid for last 10 minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce, if desired.
  6. Stir in balsamic vinegar. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
  7. Serve over pasta or grain of choice with fresh herbs and vegan Parmesan if desired.
Nutrition Info (Per serving – estimate)
  1. Calories: 285
  2. Protein: 15g
  3. Carbohydrates: 38g
  4. Fiber: 12g
  5. Fat: 7g
  6. Saturated Fat: 1g
  7. Sodium: 420mg

Notes

Notes
Use brown or green lentils for best texture—red lentils will become mushy.
Add chopped mushrooms or red wine for even more depth.
Freeze leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat with a splash of water or broth to loosen.