If you want a warm, comforting, and protein-packed meal, this Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes is perfect. It’s thick, savory, and loaded with plant-based protein from lentils, served over creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying bowl.
Great for meal prep, cold nights, or a budget-friendly healthy dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This dish is hearty, nutritious, and very filling.
High protein and fiber
Comfort food style
Budget-friendly ingredients
Great for meal prep
Naturally vegetarian
Ingredients You’ll Need
Lentil Stew
1 cup dried lentils (green or brown), rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
2 carrots (diced)
2 celery stalks (diced)
1 can diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon thyme or Italian seasoning
Salt and black pepper to taste
Mashed Potatoes
4 medium potatoes (peeled and chopped)
2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
½ cup milk (or plant-based milk)
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Add-ons
Spinach
Mushrooms
Red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley
How to Make Lentil Stew
Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, cumin, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until lentils are tender and stew thickens.
How to Make Mashed Potatoes
Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until soft.
Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
How to Assemble
Scoop mashed potatoes into a bowl and top generously with lentil stew.
How to Serve
Serve warm with fresh parsley on top. Add chili flakes for extra heat if desired.
Tips for Best Results
Don’t overcook lentils—they should be soft but not mushy. Add extra broth if stew gets too thick. Use Yukon gold potatoes for extra creaminess. Season in layers for best flavor.
Variations
Add ground meat for extra protein. Make it spicy with chili powder or hot sauce. Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes. Add coconut milk for a creamier stew.
Storage and Meal Prep
Store in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of broth or water. Freezes well for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
High Protein Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes is a cozy, nutritious, and deeply satisfying meal. It’s simple, filling, and perfect for healthy comfort food any day of the week.
