Creamy “Marry Me” Lentils

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug, these Creamy Marry Me Lentils are just what you need! This recipe has quickly become a favorite in my household, and I can’t wait to share it with you. The creamy sundried tomato sauce is so rich and flavorful that it’s hard to believe it’s made with simple ingredients. Plus, this dish is incredibly versatile—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings where everyone will be asking for seconds!

What makes these lentils special is their ability to shine in various forms. Whether you scoop them up with crusty bread, serve them over rice, or pile them on sweet potatoes, this recipe is sure to impress anyone who tries it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This dish comes together in about 40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick dinner.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavor and goodness, even the pickiest eaters will enjoy this meal.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: The flavors deepen overnight, so leftovers are just as delicious!
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it on its own or pair it with your favorite sides for a complete meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create these Creamy Marry Me Lentils. You might already have many of these in your pantry!

For the Lentils

• oil from a jar of sundried tomatoes (for cooking)
• 1 cup dry black, brown or green lentils (2.5 cups cooked, or 2 cans drained and rinsed)
• 1 small red onion (finely diced)
• 6 cloves garlic (crushed)
• 2 tsp fennel seeds (crushed)
• 1 tbsp Italian seasoning
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• 1/2 cup sun dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 2 cups vegetable stock
• 3/4 cup heavy (double) cream
• 1 cup parmesan, pecorino or Italian hard cheese
• 1 bunch basil (chopped)
• lemon wedges (for squeezing)

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few variations to make it your own:

• Change the Lentils: Use puy lentils for an earthy flavor or swap in canned lentils for even quicker prep.
• Add Vegetables: Toss in some spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for extra nutrients.
• Spice It Up: If you like heat, add some red pepper flakes to the sauté mixture for a kick.
• Dairy-Free Option: Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream and use nutritional yeast instead of cheese for a vegan twist.

How to Make Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Step 1: Cook the Lentils

If you’re cooking your lentils from dry, start this process before prepping the other ingredients. For black lentils, if you’re using an Instant Pot, combine 1 cup of lentils with 1.75 cups of salted water and cook on HIGH for 9 minutes. Let them release naturally for about 10 minutes. On the stovetop, simmer 1 cup of lentils with 3.5 cups of salted water for around 20 minutes until they’re tender but still slightly firm. Cooking them ahead allows you to focus on making that luscious sauce!

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

In a large, deep-sided sauté pan, heat a few tablespoons of oil from your sundried tomato jar over low-medium heat. Add the finely diced red onion and sauté until softened—this brings out their natural sweetness! Once they soften up a bit, toss in the crushed garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Spices

Next, add the crushed fennel seeds to the pan and let their aroma fill your kitchen! Quickly follow this by adding a splash more oil along with smoked paprika and Italian seasoning. Sauté for just another moment; we want those spices alive but not burnt!

Step 4: Incorporate Tomato Paste

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Add the tomato paste and chopped sundried tomatoes into the mix. Stir well until everything is nicely combined—this step ensures every bite is loaded with flavor.

Step 5: Prepare the Lentils

Once your lentils are cooked or ready from cans, drain them well in a fine sieve. Rinse until the water runs clear; this helps keep our sauce beautifully vibrant without any murky tones from cooking water.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Add those lovely lentils right into your pan! Turn up the heat slightly and give everything a good mix so that those delicious flavors meld together.

Step 7: Simmer & Thicken

Pour in the vegetable stock and allow everything to simmer together for about 10 minutes. Start covered but uncover it towards the end; this lets our sauce thicken as it cooks down just right.

Step 8: Stir in Cream & Cheese

Finally, reduce heat to low and stir in your cream, cheese of choice, and chopped basil until melted through! This step adds richness while allowing that fresh basil flavor to shine.

Step 9: Rest & Serve

Let everything sit covered for about five minutes—this helps thicken our beautiful sauce even more. Give it one last stir before serving alongside lemon wedges for that zesty squeeze!

And there you have it—Creamy Marry Me Lentils that are sure to win hearts at any table! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Making the perfect creamy lentils is just a few tips away! Here are some insider secrets to elevate your dish to the next level.

• Use Quality Ingredients: The flavors of this dish depend heavily on the quality of your sundried tomatoes and vegetable stock. Opt for high-quality, oil-packed sundried tomatoes for a rich, robust flavor.

• Don’t Rush the Onions: Take your time cooking the onions until they’re soft and translucent. This step enhances the sweetness of the onions and forms a delicious base for your sauce.

• Control the Heat: Keeping the heat low when adding spices prevents them from burning, ensuring a fragrant and flavorful sauce without any bitterness.

• Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer longer uncovered. Alternatively, if you like it creamier, add more cream or cheese towards the end of cooking.

• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit covered for about 5 minutes after cooking lets all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more harmonious taste.

How to Serve Creamy Marry Me Lentils

Serving up your Creamy Marry Me Lentils can be as creative as it is delicious! Here are some ideas to make this dish shine on your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Parsley: A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds brightness and color that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a little heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes can spice things up and add an extra layer of flavor.
• Zest of Lemon: Adding lemon zest not only enhances presentation but also brightens up the dish with a refreshing citrus note.

Side Dishes

• Crispy Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up those creamy lentils, crispy garlic bread adds crunch and flavor that pairs wonderfully with this dish.
• Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus brings a vibrant green element and complements the richness of the lentils without overpowering them.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted seasonal vegetables can add texture and earthy flavors that balance out the creaminess perfectly.
• Simple Green Salad: A fresh salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty lentils.

Now you’re all set to create an unforgettable meal with these Creamy Marry Me Lentils! Whether you’re sharing it at a cozy dinner or enjoying it solo, this recipe is sure to bring warmth and delight. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe is perfect for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious, creamy lentils throughout the week. You can save time by preparing a big batch and storing it for later, ensuring you always have a comforting dish on hand.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the lentils to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Label your container with the date, so you know when to use them.

Freezing

• Portion the cooled lentils into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Remove as much air as possible before sealing.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw frozen lentils in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable stock or water if needed to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Creamy Marry Me Lentils that you might find helpful:

Can I use other types of lentils for Creamy Marry Me Lentils?

Absolutely! While black lentils provide a lovely texture and color, you can also use brown or green lentils. Just keep an eye on cooking times, as they may vary slightly.

How can I make Creamy Marry Me Lentils dairy-free?

To make this dish dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Use a vegan cheese option that melts well to maintain that cheesy flavor!

What can I serve with Creamy Marry Me Lentils?

These lentils are incredibly versatile! Serve them over rice, scoop them up with crusty bread, or top baked sweet potatoes for a hearty meal.

How long do Creamy Marry Me Lentils last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, these creamy lentils will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this recipe for Creamy Marry Me Lentils as delightful as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s comfort food that warms your heart and brings joy to your table. Whether you’re meal prepping for busy nights or looking for a cozy dish to share with loved ones, this recipe is sure to impress. Enjoy every bite and feel free to get creative with your serving options—I can’t wait for you to try it!