Comforting Lentil Stew with creamy mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming your soul on chilly nights. This hearty dish features tender lentils simmered with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a cozy lentil stew that brings family and friends together. The creamy mashed potatoes are the perfect companion, making every spoonful a delightful experience.
Why You’ll Love This Comforting Lentil Stew with
This comforting lentil stew is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Here are some reasons to love it:
- It’s packed with protein, making it a high-protein lentil stew.
- Perfect for cold weather, this dish warms you up from the inside out.
- It’s a vegan lentil stew option, suitable for plant-based diets.
- This easy lentil stew recipe is quick to prepare, taking just 55 minutes from start to finish.
- It’s versatile; you can add various vegetables to create your own nourishing lentil dish.
- This stew is ideal for meal prep, ensuring you have healthy lunches ready to go.
Ingredients for Comforting Lentil Stew with
Gather these items:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Comforting Lentil Stew with Step-by-Step
- Step 1: In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic until fragrant.
- Step 2: Stir in carrots, celery, and thyme. Cook until vegetables soften.
- Step 3: Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil then simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Step 4: Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and mash with butter and cream until smooth.
- Step 5: Remove bay leaves from the stew. Serve hot alongside creamy mashed potatoes.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Comforting Lentil Stew with
Keep these in mind:
- This dish is perfect for leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
- For a spicy lentil stew, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
Best Ways to Serve Comforting Lentil Stew with
Here are a few serving ideas:
- Serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping.
- Top with fresh herbs and a dollop of yogurt for extra creaminess.
- Pair with a light salad for a complete meal.
How to Store and Reheat Comforting Lentil Stew with
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions About Comforting Lentil Stew with
What is the best way to enjoy Comforting Lentil Stew with?
The best way to enjoy this stew is warm, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a nourishing lentil dish that satisfies your cravings for comfort food.
Can I make Comforting Lentil Stew with ahead of time?
Absolutely! This stew keeps well in the fridge and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
How do I make Comforting Lentil Stew with spicier?
Add chili powder or diced jalapeños during the cooking process to give your stew a spicy kick. It’s a great way to customize your recipe!
Variations of Comforting Lentil Stew with You Can Try
Here are a few variations to consider:
- For a gluten-free lentil stew, ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.
- Add quinoa or barley for a hearty twist.
- Incorporate different beans for added texture and flavor.
This comforting lentil stew with creamy mashed potatoes is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Prepare it for a cozy night in, and enjoy the leftovers throughout the week!

For more delicious recipes, check out our Grilled Cheese Patty Melts or Baked Pears with Feta and Honey. If you’re looking for a sweet treat, don’t miss our Sugar Plum Shortbread Cookies.
For more information on the health benefits of lentils, you can visit Healthline.
Print
Comforting Lentil Stew with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Lentil stew with creamy mashed potatoes is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for warming your soul on chilly nights.
Ingredients
- 1 cup green or brown lentils
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté onions in olive oil until translucent. Add garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in carrots, celery, and thyme. Cook until vegetables soften.
- Add lentils, broth, diced tomatoes, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil then simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.
- Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15-20 minutes). Drain and mash with butter and cream until smooth.
- Remove bay leaves from the stew. Serve hot alongside creamy mashed potatoes.
Notes
- This dish is perfect for leftovers and can be stored in the fridge for a few days.
- Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 360
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 56g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
