Dig into this easy lentil stew over creamy mashed potatoes for a hearty, comfort food that’s budget-friendly and perfect for a quick dinner.
Lentil Stew
When the weather cools down and you’re craving something warm and comforting, nothing hits the spot quite like a big bowl of stew.
There’s just something about a simmering pot on the stove that makes the whole house feel inviting.
That’s where lentil stew comes in. It's hearty, flavorful, and perfect for an easy, satisfying meal.
Here are a few reasons why you will love this lentil stew recipe:
- Easy prep – Minimal prep and simple ingredients make this lentil stew perfect for busy weeknights.
- Budget-friendly dinner – Lentils are affordable and filling, making it a great option for feeding a family.
- Hearty and satisfying – Packed with protein and flavor, it’s great for a relaxed Sunday dinner.
- Perfect for leftovers – It reheats beautifully, so you can enjoy it for lunch the next day.
- Make-ahead friendly – The flavors deepen over time, making it ideal for meal prep or preparing in advance.
For more delicious stew recipes try this vegetarian Irish stew and these 13 best stew recipes.
You will need the following ingredients listed below to make this lentil stew recipe (the exact measurements, nutrition information and full recipe are all in the printable recipe card at the bottom of the post).
Ingredients:
- Lentils
- Peas
- Olive Oil
- Onion
- Garlic
- Carrots
- Paprika
- Thyme or Rosemary
- Cumin
- Thyme
- Tomato Paste
- Water or Vegetable Broth
- Can of Potato
- Salt and Pepper
- Parsley
Mashed Potatoes:
- Potatoes
- Butter
- Water or Milk
- Salt and Pepper
How to Make Hearty Lentil Stew
Saute the vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat lard or olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté onion and carrots until soft (5–7 minutes).
- Add garlic and a few sprigs of fresh thyme. Cook for 60 seconds and the spices (paprika, thyme, cumin).
- Stir well and add the tomato paste. Cook for another minute.
Add lentil and peas:
- Add lentils, tomato can, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
- Stir in peas, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Simmer another 10 minutes until thick and stew-like, and the peas are tender.
Prepare the potatoes:
- While you are cooking the lentil stew, put the potatoes to boil as well.
- Boil potatoes until tender (about 15–20 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter.
- Set aside ¼ cup of the water you boiled the potatoes in. Add to the mashed potatoes and stir until you get a creamy potato mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Notes: If using milk, heat the milk, but do not boil. Add the warm milk to the mashed potatoes and stir until creamy.
Serve:
- Serve with fresh parsley and yogurt if desired.
SAVE FOR LATER BY PINNING THE BELOW IMAGE
Hearty Lentil Stew Over Mashed Potatoes
Author: Recipe Idea Shop
Equipment
- large pot
Ingredients
- 1 cup Green or Brown Lentils (rinsed)
- 1 cup Peas, frozen or fresh
- 1 tablespoon Lard or Olive Oil
- 1 Large Onion, diced
- 2 cloves Garlic, minced
- 2 medium Carrots, diced
- 1 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
- ½ teaspoon Thyme or Rosemary
- ¼ teaspoon Cumin
- Fresh Thyme, a few sprigs
- 1 ½ tablespoon Tomato Paste
- 4 cups Fresh Water or Vegetable Broth
- 1 can Tomato, about 9oz
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Fresh Parsley (for garnish)
Mashed Potatoes:
- 2 lbs Potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoon Butter
- ¼ cup Water from Boiled Potatoes or Milk
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
Saute the vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat lard or olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and carrots until soft (5–7 minutes).
- Add garlic and a few sprigs of fresh thyme. Cook for 60 seconds and add the spices (paprika, thyme, cumin).
- Stir well and add the tomato paste. Cook for another minute.
Add lentil and peas:
- Add lentils, tomato can, and water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for 25–30 minutes, until lentils are tender.
- Stir in peas, adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
- Simmer another 10 minutes until thick and stew-like, and the peas are tender.
Prepare the potatoes:
- While you are cooking the lentil stew, put the potatoes to boil as well.
- Boil potatoes until tender (about 15–20 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter.
- Set aside ¼ cup of the water you boiled the potatoes in. Add to the mashed potatoes and stir until you get a creamy potato mixture.
- Season with salt and pepper.
Serve:
- Serve with fresh parsley and yogurt if desired.
