Name: One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 5 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tsp mixed Italian herbs; 1 can green or brown lentils, drained; 2 Tbsp tomato paste; 2 cans chopped or whole tomatoes (14 oz / 400 g each); ½ tsp balsamic vinegar; ½ tsp brown sugar; 300 g (11 oz) dried pasta; 170 g (6 oz) grated cheddar cheese

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If you’re searching for a hearty, comforting meal that’s both nutritious and incredibly easy to whip up, this One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Picture tender pasta bathed in a rich, creamy lentil and tomato sauce with just the right amount of melted cheddar cheese to add that indulgent touch—plus, it’s all cooked in one pot in just 20 minutes! Perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a satisfying vegetarian dinner that the whole family will love. The protein-packed lentils bring a wonderful texture and depth of flavor, making this dish both delicious and good for you.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view inside a white pot shows a thick stew with three main layers: at the bottom, a rich red tomato sauce with a slightly chunky texture; in the middle, a lot of small green lentils mixed well in the sauce; and on top, large pieces of tomato adding a bright red color. A wooden spoon stirs the mixture from the right side, partially covered by the stew. The pot sits on a surface with a white marbled texture, and steam rises gently from the hot stew. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These simple, pantry-friendly ingredients pack a punch in flavor, texture, and color, bringing the One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce Recipe to life. Each one plays a key role in building the sauce’s richness and the pasta’s perfect finish.

Garlic (5 cloves, minced): Adds an aromatic base that wakes up the taste buds right from the start.
Mixed Italian herbs (2 tsp): A fragrant blend that layers herbal notes into the sauce for authentic flavor.
Green or brown lentils (1 can, drained): Protein-packed and creamy, these lentils give the sauce its hearty thickness.
Tomato paste (2 Tbsp): Concentrates the tomato flavor to give your sauce that depth and richness.
Chopped or whole tomatoes (2 cans, 14 oz / 400g each): The juicy, tangy base for a vibrant and saucy finish.
Balsamic vinegar (½ tsp): Adds a touch of acidity and sweetness to balance the tomatoes perfectly.
Brown sugar (½ tsp): Counters tomato acidity for a round and harmonious taste.
Dried pasta (300 g / 11 oz): Your carb canvas—choose your favorite shape for fun textures.
Grated cheddar cheese (170 g / 6 oz): Melts seamlessly into the sauce to create that irresistible creamy, cheesy finish.

How to Make One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Garlic and Herbs

Start by gently sautéing the minced garlic in a large pan until it releases its fragrant aroma. This step is crucial as it unlocks the garlic’s sweet, mellow flavor. Next, toss in the mixed Italian herbs and stir everything together for another minute to ensure the herbs bloom and infuse the oil, setting a flavorful foundation for the sauce.

Step 2: Build the Lentil Tomato Sauce

Add the drained lentils to the pan and stir to combine with the garlicky herb base. Then, pour in the chopped or whole tomatoes along with the tomato paste. Stir in the balsamic vinegar and brown sugar, which work wonders to elevate the natural sweetness and balance the tanginess of the tomatoes. Let this sauce come together as the flavors meld beautifully in the pan.

Step 3: Add Pasta and Water

Now it’s time to add the dried pasta directly into the pan with the sauce. Using the empty tomato can, measure out one and a half cans of water and carefully pour it over the pasta and sauce. This clever method keeps your measurements accurate and ensures the pasta will have just enough liquid to cook perfectly.

Step 4: Simmer Until Pasta is Al Dente

Bring the pan to a gentle simmer and let everything cook for 10 to 12 minutes. Be sure to stir regularly to prevent the pasta from sticking and to help it cook evenly. Keep a close eye on your sauce’s consistency; if it thickens before the pasta is done, simply add a splash more water. Different pasta shapes absorb water differently, so this step allows you to customize the texture. If the sauce turns out too thin at the end, just simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes to thicken or add a bit more tomato paste.

Step 5: Melt in the Cheddar and Serve

Once the pasta has reached al dente perfection, sprinkle in the grated cheddar cheese and stir thoroughly until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a silky, cheesy coating over every strand. This step truly makes the dish feel indulgent while keeping it wholesome and satisfying.

How to Serve One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce Recipe

Two white bowls filled with curly macaroni pasta mixed with thick red-orange tomato sauce sit on a white marbled surface. The pasta is evenly coated in the sauce, which has a smooth texture with small tomato pieces and herbs visible. Both bowls are placed on a cloth with thin black stripes, adding a soft, casual background. The front bowl is closer and sharply in focus, showing the glossy shine of the sauce on the pasta, while the second bowl is behind and blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh chopped basil or parsley adds a bright, herbaceous note and vibrant green color that contrast beautifully with the rich sauce. A dash of crushed chili flakes can bring a gentle kick if you like a little heat, and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil adds glossy richness to finish the dish.

Side Dishes

This pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, fresh salads like a simple mixed greens salad with lemon vinaigrette or crunchy roasted vegetables. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread is also perfect for soaking up any extra cheesy lentil sauce, making sure no delicious morsel goes to waste.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the pasta in rustic bowls to keep the cozy, comforting vibe going for family dinners or drizzle with a little truffle oil and finely grated parmesan for a sophisticated twist when entertaining guests. For a fun presentation, try layering the pasta in small mason jars for a portable meal idea that still feels homey.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The lentil sauce helps retain moisture, so the pasta should stay pleasantly soft without getting mushy if stored properly.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, making it a great choice for meal prep. Transfer cooled leftovers to freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the creamy texture.

Reheating

Reheat in a saucepan over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water, broth, or milk to loosen the sauce if it’s thickened during storage. You can also microwave portions but be sure to stir midway to ensure even heating.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils for this recipe?

Absolutely! While green or brown lentils work best for their texture and taste, you can experiment with red lentils if you like a slightly softer sauce, keeping in mind that they cook faster and may break down more.

Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make this recipe vegan, simply swap the cheddar cheese for a plant-based cheese alternative or nutritional yeast, which will still provide a cheesy flavor without dairy.

What type of pasta works best?

Any dried pasta will work well, but quicker-cooking shapes like penne, fusilli, or small shells are ideal as they cook evenly within the sauce. Avoid very thick or fresh pasta as they may require different cooking times.

Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, just substitute the regular dried pasta for your favorite gluten-free pasta. Keep an eye on cooking times as gluten-free pasta varieties sometimes require less time to cook.

How do I adjust the sauce if it’s too watery?

If your sauce is too thin after cooking, simply continue simmering the pasta uncovered for a few extra minutes to evaporate excess liquid. Alternatively, stir in a little more tomato paste to thicken it up quickly.

Final Thoughts

This One Pot Pasta with Cheesy Lentil Sauce Recipe is a true game-changer for busy nights when you crave something warm, nutritious, and fuss-free. Its rich, velvety sauce loaded with protein and cheesy goodness will leave you feeling satisfied and maybe even craving leftovers. I can’t wait for you to give this dish a try and make it a staple in your dinner rotation!