There’s something almost magical about a bowl of creamy, perfectly cooked lentils. They’re hearty, wholesome, and endlessly comforting—especially when paired with layers of flavor like garlic, sundried tomatoes, and aromatic herbs. The Creamy “Marry Me” Lentils recipe elevates a humble legume into a luxurious, restaurant-worthy dish that’s still approachable for home cooks. It’s the kind of meal that makes you pause, savor, and maybe even whisper, “I could eat this every day.”
I first stumbled upon this recipe while looking for a plant-forward comfort meal that didn’t compromise on richness. The combination of lentils with a silky cream sauce, savory cheese, and fragrant basil is nothing short of divine. Each bite delivers a perfect balance of earthy, savory, and slightly tangy flavors. It’s ideal for cozy weeknight dinners, impressive dinner parties, or whenever you want to treat yourself to a dish that feels both indulgent and nourishing.
Whether you’re cooking from dry lentils or using canned ones, this dish is versatile, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to prepare. With minimal effort, you can create a creamy, cheesy, herb-filled masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Recipe Overview
Creamy “Marry Me” Lentils are a luscious blend of cooked lentils, garlic, sundried tomatoes, and spices, finished with a rich cream and hard Italian cheese like parmesan or pecorino. The addition of fresh basil and a squeeze of lemon brightens the dish, creating a balance of hearty and fresh flavors. Perfect as a main dish, side, or even a cozy solo dinner, this recipe transforms lentils into a decadent comfort classic.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- Oil from a jar of sundried tomatoes, for cooking
- 1 cup dry black, brown, or green lentils (yields ~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
- ½ cup sundried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 cups vegetable stock
- ¾ cup heavy cream (double cream)
- 1 cup parmesan, pecorino, or Italian hard cheese, grated
- 1 bunch basil, chopped
- Lemon wedges, for squeezing
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook the Lentils
If using dry lentils, cook them until soft but slightly al dente:
- Instant Pot: Combine 1 cup lentils with 1.75 cups salted water, cook on HIGH for 9 minutes, then allow a natural release for 10 minutes.
- Stovetop: Simmer 1 cup lentils with 3.5 cups salted water for about 20 minutes.
If using canned lentils, drain and rinse them thoroughly. Set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat a few tablespoons of sundried tomato oil in a large pan over low-medium heat. Sauté the red onion until soft, then add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Add crushed fennel seeds, then a splash more oil if needed. Stir in smoked paprika and Italian seasoning, letting the spices bloom for maximum flavor.
3. Add Tomato Elements
Mix in tomato paste and chopped sundried tomatoes, combining thoroughly with the onions and spices. Set aside briefly while prepping the lentils.
4. Combine Lentils and Sauce
Drain the cooked lentils (if not already done) and add them to the pan. Stir to coat with the tomato-spice mixture. Pour in vegetable stock, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes, uncovering during the last couple of minutes to thicken the sauce.
5. Finish with Cream and Cheese
Reduce heat to very low, then stir in heavy cream, grated cheese, and fresh basil. Allow the cheese to melt and the basil to wilt gently. Cover for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
6. Serve
Serve warm with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for brightness. This dish pairs beautifully with crusty bread, rice, or a simple green salad.
Cooking Tips & Variations
1. Lentil Choice
- Black lentils hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture.
- Brown or green lentils soften more, giving a creamier mouthfeel.
2. Cheese Options
- Parmesan adds nutty richness; pecorino gives a sharper bite.
- For a vegan version, substitute cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegan parmesan.
3. Spice Adjustments
- Fennel seeds lend a subtle anise flavor; adjust to taste.
- Smoked paprika can be swapped for regular paprika if you prefer less smokiness.
4. Herb Variations
- Basil is classic, but fresh parsley or oregano can also be used for a different herbal note.
5. Make Ahead
- Cook lentils in advance and refrigerate. Combine with sauce just before serving for a quick weeknight meal.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Reheating: Warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of stock or cream to restore creaminess.
Serving Ideas
- Serve as a main dish for a vegetarian-friendly dinner.
- Pair with a crusty baguette or garlic bread.
- Use as a hearty topping for roasted vegetables or grains.
The Creamy “Marry Me” Lentils recipe transforms simple lentils into a decadent, flavor-packed dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its creamy texture, aromatic spices, sundried tomato richness, and fresh basil create a balanced and comforting meal that feels both indulgent and nourishing. Easy to make, versatile, and deeply satisfying, it’s a dish that will impress guests or provide a cozy solo dinner. Once you try it, it may very well become a staple in your weekly rotation.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, just drain and rinse them before adding to the sauce. Reduce simmering time slightly since they’re already cooked.
2. Can this dish be made vegan?
Absolutely. Use coconut or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and vegan cheese in place of parmesan.
3. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, store in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
4. What type of lentils work best?
Black lentils hold their shape well; green and brown lentils give a creamier texture.
5. Can I add extra vegetables?
Yes, roasted mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini can be added for variety and nutrition.
Creamy “Marry Me” Lentils are a rich, flavorful dish with sundried tomatoes, garlic, cream, and parmesan. Easy, comforting, and perfect for vegetarian meals.
