Name: Red Lentil Casserole
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Indian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 cup basmati rice; 1 cup red lentils; 1 teaspoon neutral oil (canola, vegetable); 1 ½ tablespoons curry powder; 1 teaspoon garam masala; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; ½ teaspoon ground coriander; ½ teaspoon ground ginger; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; 2 ½ cups vegetable broth; 1 (13.5-ounce) can coconut milk; 1 medium sweet potato, diced small (¼ to ½ inch cubes); 1 medium orange bell pepper, diced; Chopped cilantro, for garnish; Lime wedges, for serving

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This red lentil casserole is the epitome of a comforting, flavorful, and nutritious meal. With tender red lentils, fluffy basmati rice, and the rich, creamy goodness of coconut milk, it’s a simple, one-pan dish infused with the warm spices of curry. Ideal for busy weeknights, this easy dump-and-bake recipe is both vegetarian and budget-friendly, packed with plant-based protein and vibrant flavors that will leave you craving more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This red lentil casserole has it all: it's easy to make, full of flavor, and incredibly satisfying. The combination of red lentils, basmati rice, and sweet potato makes for a hearty, filling meal, while the spices like curry powder, garam masala, and cumin give it a delicious Indian-inspired flair. Coconut milk adds richness, and the whole dish is cooked in one pan, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, it’s flexible – you can enjoy it as-is or make it your own with various vegetable or spice adjustments. Whether you're looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a nutritious meal prep option, this casserole has you covered.

Ingredients

1 cup basmati rice
1 cup red lentils
1 teaspoon neutral oil (e.g., canola oil)
1 ½ tablespoons curry powder
1 teaspoon garam masala
1 teaspoon ground cumin
½ teaspoon ground coriander
½ teaspoon ground ginger
1 teaspoon kosher salt
2 ½ cups vegetable broth
13.5-ounce can of coconut milk
1 medium sweet potato, diced small (¼ to ½ inch cubes)
1 medium orange bell pepper, diced
Chopped cilantro, for garnish
Lime wedges, for serving

(Tip: You'll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
Rinse the basmati rice in a fine mesh sieve under cold water until the water runs clear. Sort and rinse the red lentils, removing any stones or broken pieces.
Heat oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the curry powder, garam masala, cumin, coriander, and ground ginger. Toast for 30 seconds, stirring frequently to bloom the spices.
Add the salt, vegetable broth, and coconut milk to the pot. Whisk until combined, then bring to a rapid simmer over medium-high heat.
In a 9x13 inch baking dish, combine the rinsed rice, lentils, diced sweet potato, and bell pepper. Stir to distribute evenly.
Carefully pour the simmering broth over the rice and lentils. Stir to combine. Cover tightly with foil or an inverted baking sheet.
Bake on the middle oven rack for 23–25 minutes, until the rice is fluffy and the lentils are mostly softened. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10–15 minutes, uncovered, to evaporate any excess liquid.
Remove from the oven, stir, and garnish with chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime before serving.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 5
Calories: 345 kcal per serving

Variations

Add Protein: For a protein boost, add chickpeas, tofu, or paneer.
Spice It Up: Increase the amount of curry powder or add some chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Vegetable Add-ins: Feel free to mix in other veggies like spinach, peas, or cauliflower for more variety and nutrition.
Vegan Option: Use a plant-based broth and make sure your coconut milk is dairy-free.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheating: To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or cover with foil and heat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of basmati rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind that the cooking time will be longer. You may need to adjust the liquid accordingly.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free, as it uses rice, lentils, and spices without any gluten-containing ingredients.

Can I make this casserole in advance?

Absolutely! This casserole can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 4 days. Simply reheat before serving.

Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers for up to 2 months. Make sure it is tightly sealed in a freezer-safe container.

What other vegetables can I add?

You can add a variety of vegetables, such as spinach, peas, zucchini, or cauliflower. Just be sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly.

Can I substitute the coconut milk with something else?

Yes, you can use any type of plant-based milk, such as almond milk or oat milk, but the coconut milk gives this casserole a rich, creamy texture and flavor.

How do I know when the lentils are done?

The lentils should be soft and tender but not mushy. Check them at the 25-minute mark, and if needed, bake for a few more minutes until fully cooked.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Add all the ingredients and cook on low for about 4-6 hours or until the lentils are tender and the rice is cooked.

Is this recipe spicy?

It has a mild spice level from the curry powder and garam masala. If you prefer a milder version, reduce the amount of curry powder and omit the ground ginger.

Can I use a different type of lentil?

Red lentils are the best choice for this dish as they cook quickly and break down to create a creamy texture. However, you can try green or brown lentils, but they may require a longer cooking time.

Conclusion

This Red Lentil Casserole is a wholesome and satisfying meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its combination of aromatic spices, hearty vegetables, and creamy coconut milk, it’s a dish that will warm you from the inside out. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also versatile and customizable to suit your tastes. Whether you're vegetarian, vegan, or simply looking for a nutritious, easy-to-make dinner, this casserole checks all the boxes.