One-Pan Baked Sausage and Lentils

Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 45 mins | Serves: 4-6 | Difficulty: Easy

This hearty one-pan meal combines savory sausages with protein-rich lentils and aromatic vegetables for a comforting dinner that's both nutritious and delicious. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish requires minimal prep and cleanup while delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 lb Italian sausages (sweet or spicy), sliced into rounds
• 1½ cups dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 carrots, diced
• 3 celery stalks, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).


2. Prepare the sausages: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add sliced sausages and cook for 5-6 minutes until browned on both sides. Remove sausages and set aside.


3. Sauté vegetables: In the same pot, add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until vegetables begin to soften. Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.


4. Add lentils and seasonings: Stir in lentils, diced tomatoes, bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper.


5. Add liquid: Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. Return the browned sausages to the pot, nestling them into the lentil mixture.


6. Bake: Cover with a lid and transfer to the preheated oven. Bake for 35-40 minutes until lentils are tender and liquid is mostly absorbed.


7. Rest and serve: Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes. Remove bay leaves, taste and adjust seasoning. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

Chef's Tips

Lentil variety: Green or brown lentils work best as they hold their shape well during baking. Avoid red lentils as they break down too quickly.

Make it ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Serving suggestions: Serve with crusty bread, a dollop of Greek yogurt, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.