For a richer flavor, sauté the diced onion in a tablespoon of olive oil before adding it to the lentil mixture. Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor profile. Smoked paprika, oregano, or thyme would be delicious additions. If you don't have quick-cooking oats, you can use regular rolled oats, but the loaf may be slightly denser. This lentil loaf is excellent served with a side of roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, or a fresh salad. Lentil loaf can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven.
Michael's Easy Lentil Loaf
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PREP TIME15 mins
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COOK TIME1 hrs 5 mins
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TOTAL TIME1 hrs 30 mins
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SERVING8 People
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VIEWS6
Transform humble lentils into a comforting and satisfying loaf! This recipe offers a delightful vegetarian main course, perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. It's hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly simple to make.
Ingridients
Adjust Servings
Nutrition
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Carbohydrate24 g
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Cholesterol34 mg
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Fiber9 g
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Protein11 g
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Saturated Fat3 g
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Sodium451 mg
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Sugar2 g
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Fat5 g
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Unsaturated Fat0 g
Follow The Directions
01
StepIn a medium saucepan, combine water and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat. Add lentils, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer until lentils are tender and water is absorbed, about 25-30 minutes.
02
StepWhile the lentils are cooking, preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Generously coat a standard loaf pan with nonstick cooking spray.
03
StepOnce the lentils are cooked, drain any excess water and mash them partially with a fork or potato masher. Transfer the mashed lentils to a large mixing bowl.
04
StepAdd oats, Cheddar cheese, diced onion, tomato sauce, beaten egg, minced garlic, dried parsley, dried basil, and ground black pepper to the bowl with the lentils. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly combined. (5 minutes)
05
StepPour the lentil mixture into the prepared loaf pan and spread evenly, smoothing the top with the back of a spoon. (2 minutes)
06
StepBake in the preheated oven for 35-45 minutes, or until the top of the loaf is dry, firm to the touch, and golden brown. (40 minutes)
07
StepRemove the loaf from the oven and let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes on a wire rack. (10 minutes)
08
StepAfter cooling, run a sharp knife around the edges of the loaf pan to loosen it. Invert the loaf onto a serving platter. Slice and serve hot.
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RECIPE REVIEWS
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Janiya Hoppe
Jul 2, 2025Next time, I think I'll add a layer of mashed sweet potatoes on top before baking. Sounds delicious!
Melvina Walter
Jul 1, 2025I tried the vegan version with the flax egg and it worked perfectly. Thanks for the tip!
Drake Kuhic
Jun 30, 2025I loved how easy this was to make! My family enjoyed it, even my picky eater.
Leslie Oreilly
Jun 30, 2025This recipe saved me on a busy weeknight. Quick, easy, and healthy!
Dock Crist
Jun 30, 2025This is now a staple in my household. It's so versatile and budget-friendly.
Joey Cummings
Jun 30, 2025The cooking time was spot on. My loaf came out perfectly golden brown and firm.
Karlee Bayer
Jun 29, 2025The lentil loaf was a hit at our vegetarian potluck. I added some chopped walnuts for extra texture.
Andreane Davis
Jun 28, 2025I found that adding a bit of smoked paprika really enhanced the flavor. Will definitely make again!