Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils

Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained; 1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Healthy Meals Collection

I love a dish that is both hearty and comforting, and this Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils recipe truly delivers on that front. The combination of creamy white beans and tender lentils simmered in rich tomato sauce creates a delightful dish that's perfect for any occasion. I often prepare this recipe on busy weeknights, as it comes together quickly and fills my kitchen with a delicious aroma. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic option for a wholesome meal.

Created by

Rosamund Blake

Last updated on 2026-01-21T21:49:34.594Z

When I first tried this recipe, I knew I had stumbled upon a diamond in the rough. The lentils are simmered with tomatoes and spices, resulting in a deliciously creamy texture that hugs each bean and lentil. What I love most is how I can adjust the flavors with my favorite spices to make this dish uniquely mine.

One tip I swear by is to use high-quality canned tomatoes; they elevate the sauce to a whole new level. I also recommend garnishing with fresh herbs or a splash of lemon juice right before serving—it brightens everything up and takes the flavors to another dimension!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy and rich with a satisfying texture
A full meal packed with protein and fiber
Easily customizable with your favorite spices

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of lentils and white beans not only provides a hearty texture but also ensures a filling meal rich in protein and fiber. Lentils cook quickly, and their earthy flavor complements the creaminess of white beans beautifully. When choosing lentils, you can opt for green or brown varieties, both of which will provide the desired consistency for this dish. However, avoid red lentils as they tend to break down too much and won't hold up well in the creamy sauce.

The use of crushed tomatoes is crucial for achieving a rich and slightly sweet flavor base. I recommend looking for fire-roasted varieties for added depth, but any good-quality crushed tomatoes will work well. Additionally, the aromatics like garlic and onion not only build a flavor foundation but also contribute to the overall aroma of the dish while cooking. If you're in a pinch, you can substitute fresh onions with shallots for a milder flavor.

Cooking Techniques

Sautéing the onion and garlic until they are translucent is key for developing the right flavor profile for your dish. You want to cook them over medium heat for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning. If they start to stick to the bottom of the pot, add a splash of vegetable broth to deglaze it and lift the caramelized bits, which adds extra flavor to your final dish.

Once you've simmered the lentils and tomatoes together, it's important to check for doneness by tasting the lentils. They should be tender but not mushy, taking about 20 minutes of simmering. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can continue to simmer longer until it reaches your desired thickness, or simply mash a small portion of the lentils against the side of the pot to create a creamier texture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils

1 cup lentils, rinsed and drained
1 can (15 oz) white beans, rinsed and drained
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Add the Lentils and Tomatoes

Add the rinsed lentils, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Cook the Mixture

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Stir in the Beans

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the white beans and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow to heat through for another 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Serve the creamy lentils hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired.

Enjoy this hearty dish with crusty bread or over rice for a complete meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, add a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving. The acidity perfectly complements the creaminess of the dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare it in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld beautifully as it sits, making leftovers even more delicious. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth if it looks too thick.

If you wish to store it longer, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers or freezer bags. It can last in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat frozen portions, place them in the refrigerator overnight to thaw, and then warm them on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding in seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking. These can boost the nutrient profile and add color to the dish. Another option is to incorporate spices like cumin or smoked paprika for a more robust flavor. I often like to switch it up by adding a dash of lemon juice right before serving; it cuts through the creaminess and enhances the overall taste.

For a creamier texture, consider blending a portion of the lentils and crushed tomatoes with an immersion blender before adding the white beans. This technique yields a thicker sauce without compromising the heartiness of the beans and lentils. And for those who prefer a non-vegetarian version, feel free to stir in some cooked sausage or bacon for additional smoky flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stovetop.

→ What type of lentils should I use?

I recommend using green or brown lentils as they hold their shape well during cooking.

→ Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Yes, you can! Just remember to soak the dried beans overnight and adjust cooking times accordingly.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it does not contain any gluten ingredients.