Cozy Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl

Name: Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils; 2 medium carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable broth; 2 tsp cumin; 1 tsp smoked paprika; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and chopped; 4 tbsp butter; 1/2 cup heavy cream

Published: December 23, 2025

by Yumi Lee

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Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. Imagine curling up on a chilly evening with the aroma of spices wafting through your kitchen, as a rich and savory stew simmers away, waiting to be devoured. nutritious vegetable side The combination of tender lentils, vibrant vegetables, and hearty spices will make your taste buds dance with joy!

This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress your friends without spending all day in the kitchen. The first spoonful will transport you to comfort food heaven, where every bite is like a delicious embrace. cozy one pot recipes And let’s be honest—who doesn’t need that kind of comfort these days? For more inspiration, check out this Cozy Autumn Wild Rice Soup recipe.

[info_box title=”Why You’ll Love This Recipe”] This Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl is easy to prepare and requires minimal effort for maximum flavor. Each bite bursts with savory goodness, making it a delightful visual masterpiece on your dinner table. Enjoy this versatile dish for lunch or dinner, and customize it according to your pantry ingredients. [/info_box]

I’ve served this recipe at family gatherings, and the smiles on their faces were priceless! flavorful rice dishes.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Green or Brown Lentils: These types hold their shape well when cooked, adding texture and heartiness to the stew.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color; choose firm ones for the best results.
Celery: Use fresh celery for that crisp crunch and aromatic flavor; it’s essential for building taste.
Onion: A yellow onion is perfect here; sauté until it’s translucent for the best flavor base.
Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds depth; it’s best to use it at the start for maximum flavor release. For more inspiration, check out this Rosemary Garlic White Bean Soup recipe.
Canned Tomatoes: Diced tomatoes bring acidity and sweetness; opt for quality brands for richer taste.
Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth is ideal; it allows you to better control the saltiness of your stew.
Spices (Cumin, Paprika): These spices add warmth and depth; I suggest smoked paprika for an extra layer of flavor.
Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are essential; use butter and cream for ultimate richness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Sautéing Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. You want those beautiful golden edges!

Add Vegetables & Spices: Toss in chopped carrots and celery along with minced garlic. Stir in cumin and smoked paprika, letting them mingle until everything smells heavenly, around 2-3 minutes.

Add Lentils & Liquid: Stir in rinsed lentils followed by canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to low. Let this simmer happily for about 30-35 minutes until lentils are tender.

Prepare Creamy Mashed Potatoes: While the stew simmers, peel potatoes and chop them into uniform chunks. Boil them in salted water until fork-tender—about 15-20 minutes should do.

Mash & Season Potatoes: Drain potatoes well before returning them to the pot. Add butter, cream, salt, and pepper before mashing until smooth and creamy. Taste-test like a true culinary artist.

Serve & Enjoy!: Once the stew has thickened beautifully, ladle it into bowls over a generous scoop of mashed potatoes. Garnish with fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy!

Now sit back, dig in, and enjoy each spoonful of comfort that this Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl brings!

[info_box title=”You Must Know”] Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a chilly day. Packed with nutrients and flavor, this dish brings comfort and joy to any dinner table. The rich aroma fills the kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around. [/info_box]

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant. Then, add lentils and broth, letting them simmer while you mash the potatoes.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap lentils for chickpeas or add some kale for an extra punch of color and nutrition.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed.

[info_box title=”Chef’s Helpful Tips”] Use vegetable broth for depth or chicken broth for richness. Don’t skip soaking lentils overnight; it enhances texture. Add spices gradually to control heat levels effectively. [/info_box]

Cooking this Hearty Lentil Stew & Creamy Mashed Potato Bowl reminds me of chilly evenings spent with my family, sitting around the table sharing stories and laughter over delicious food. delicious casserole meal.

FAQ

Can I make this stew vegan?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegan option.

What type of lentils should I use?

Brown or green lentils work best due to their firm texture after cooking.

How can I thicken the stew?

For a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the stew before serving it alongside mashed potatoes.