Cheesy Lentil and Brown Rice Bake
This hearty and nutritious Cheesy Lentil and Brown Rice Bake is a delightful twist on the classic casserole. It combines wholesome lentils and brown rice with a rich beef broth and zesty tomato sauce, topped off with a blend of melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses. Perfect for families, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor and essential nutrients, making it a favorite among adults and kids alike. The combination of ingredients creates a satisfying meal without the hassle, and the leftovers are just as tasty, making it an ideal weeknight dinner option.
N/A
Servings
181
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
beef broth
1 (14.5 ounce can)
tomato sauce
1 (8 ounce can)
lentils
3/4 (cup, rinsed)
brown rice
1/2 (cup, rinsed)
onion
1/2 (cup, chopped)
Italian seasoning
1 (teaspoon)
garlic powder
1/2 (teaspoon)
cheddar cheese
1/2 (cup, shredded)
mozzarella cheese
1/2 (cup, shredded)
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2
In a large casserole dish, combine the beef broth, tomato sauce, rinsed lentils, rinsed brown rice, chopped onion, Italian seasoning, and garlic powder. Stir gently to mix all the ingredients well.
3
Cover the casserole dish with a lid or aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for 40 minutes.
4
After 40 minutes, carefully remove the casserole from the oven. Stir the mixture to distribute the ingredients evenly.
5
Sprinkle the shredded cheddar and mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the casserole.
6
Return the casserole to the oven uncovered and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7
Remove from the oven, let it cool slightly, and serve warm. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
4.5g
Fat
25.5g
Carbs
10.5g
Protein
5g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Cheesy Lentil and Brown Rice Bake?
It is a hearty casserole that combines lentils and brown rice with beef broth and tomato sauce, topped with melted cheddar and mozzarella cheeses.
How many calories are in one serving of this bake?
There are approximately 181 calories per serving.
Is this recipe considered vegetarian?
The recipe uses beef broth, but it can be made vegetarian by substituting the beef broth with vegetable broth.
Can I use white rice instead of brown rice?
Yes, but white rice cooks faster than brown rice, so you would need to reduce the initial baking time to prevent it from becoming too soft.
What oven temperature is required for this recipe?
The oven should be preheated to 375°F (190°C).
How long does the casserole need to bake in total?
The total baking time is 50 minutes: 40 minutes covered and 10 minutes uncovered.
Can I freeze the leftovers of this dish?
Yes, this casserole freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
What type of lentils should I use?
Standard brown or green lentils are best as they hold their shape during the baking process.
Do I need to cook the lentils before putting them in the oven?
No, the lentils are added dry (rinsed) and will cook in the liquid while baking.
Do I need to boil the rice beforehand?
No, the brown rice is added dry (rinsed) and absorbs the broth and tomato sauce to cook in the oven.
What kind of cheese is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese.
How much protein is in this meal?
Each serving contains 10.5g of protein.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, the primary ingredients are naturally gluten-free, but always check your broth and tomato sauce labels for hidden gluten.
How many ingredients are needed for this dish?
There are 9 ingredients: beef broth, tomato sauce, lentils, brown rice, onion, Italian seasoning, garlic powder, cheddar, and mozzarella.
Can I add other vegetables to the bake?
Yes, chopped bell peppers, carrots, or spinach can be added during the first step for extra nutrition.
What size casserole dish should I use?
A standard large casserole dish is recommended to ensure all ingredients fit and cook evenly.
How can I make this recipe vegan?
Substitute the beef broth with vegetable broth and use vegan-friendly shredded cheese alternatives.
How should I store any leftovers?
Leftovers should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Can I double this recipe?
Yes, you can double the ingredients and use a larger pan or two separate casserole dishes.
What are some good side dishes to serve with this?
A fresh side salad or roasted green beans pairs very well with this dish.
Is this recipe suitable for children?
Yes, it is family-friendly and the melted cheese makes it appealing to kids.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can substitute the 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder with 1 or 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic.
Can I use water instead of beef broth?
You can use water, but beef or vegetable broth is recommended for a much richer flavor profile.
How much fiber does this dish provide?
This recipe provides 5g of fiber per serving.
Are there any added sugars in this recipe?
The recipe does not list any added sugar, though some may be naturally present in the tomato sauce.
Do I need to stir the casserole while it is in the oven?
You should stir it once after the first 40 minutes of baking before adding the cheese.
Why do I need to rinse the lentils and rice?
Rinsing removes any debris and excess starch, which helps the grains and legumes achieve a better texture.
Can I use individual herbs instead of Italian seasoning?
Yes, a mix of dried oregano, basil, and thyme can be used as a substitute for Italian seasoning.
Should the dish be covered with foil while baking?
Yes, cover it for the first 40 minutes to trap steam and cook the rice, then uncover for the final 10 minutes.
Is this a good meal-prep option?
Yes, because it is easy to make in one dish and the leftovers taste great when reheated.