Are you tired of the same old weeknight meals? Do you find yourself scrambling to come up with something quick and delicious after a long day? Look no further! Lentils are a great way to add protein, fiber, and flavor to your meals without breaking a sweat. And when cooked in a crockpot, they’re incredibly easy and convenient.
In this article, we’ll share 20 hearty lentil crockpot recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From spicy stews to creamy curries, these recipes will take you on a culinary journey around the world without leaving your kitchen. Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan, or just looking for some healthy meal ideas, there’s something for everyone in this collection of lentil crockpot recipes.
So go ahead and fire up that crockpot – we’ll get started with 20 delicious and easy-to-make lentil recipes to brighten up your weeknights!
Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Crockpot Stew
This hearty stew combines the comforting warmth of lentils and sweet potatoes with a kick of spice, perfect for a chilly day. Simply add all the ingredients to your crockpot in the morning and come home to a delicious, one-pot meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Add all ingredients to a 6-quart crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 8-10 hours (low) or 4-6 hours (high)
Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry in the Crockpot
Transform your weeknight dinner into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry recipe, made easy in the crockpot. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening, packed with the tender goodness of lentils and the richness of coconut cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup coconut cream
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper to the crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Stir in coconut milk and coconut cream during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Smoky Bacon and Lentil Slow Cooker Soup
Warm up with this hearty and comforting slow cooker soup that combines the rich flavors of smoky bacon, tender lentils, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 6 slices of smoky bacon, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 cups of chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine lentils, bacon, onion, and garlic.
2. Pour in chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and smoked paprika. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs (optional).
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Mediterranean Lentil and Spinach Crockpot Dinner
This hearty and flavorful crockpot dinner is a perfect blend of Mediterranean-inspired flavors, with the comforting warmth of lentils and spinach. Let the slow cooker do the work for you as this dish simmers to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 bunch fresh spinach leaves (about 8 oz)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, combine lentils, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, parsley, cilantro, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in olive oil and fresh spinach leaves.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional parsley and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-7 hours
Easy Garlic Herb Lentil Soup in the Crockpot
A hearty and comforting crockpot recipe that’s perfect for a cozy night in. This lentil soup is infused with the flavors of garlic, herbs, and spices, making it a delicious and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, garlic, onion, carrots, celery, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, and rosemary to the crockpot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mexican Lentil and Quinoa Crockpot Chili
This hearty, flavorful chili is a perfect blend of traditional Mexican spices and nutritious lentils and quinoa. Serve with your favorite toppings for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, quinoa, diced tomatoes, red kidney beans, onion, garlic, cumin, chili powder, and paprika to the crockpot.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot with your choice of toppings.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Turmeric Golden Lentil Stew with Kale
This hearty stew is a vibrant and flavorful blend of turmeric-spiced lentils, nutritious kale, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a comforting and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 teaspoons ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups kale leaves, stems removed and chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the lentils and soak them in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Drain and add the lentils to the pot. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
6. Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Lentil and Chickpea Crockpot Dish
This hearty crockpot dish combines the comforting warmth of lentils and chickpeas with the bold spices of Morocco, perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch. The result is a flavorful, nutritious meal that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, chickpeas, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper to the crockpot.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Hearty Lentil and Sausage Slow Cooker Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect combination of protein-rich sausage, fiber-packed lentils, and aromatic spices, all slow-cooked to perfection. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this recipe is a weeknight winner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb sausage (such as Italian or Chorizo), sliced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Add sausage, lentils, onion, garlic, and carrots to the slow cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together canned tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme. Pour mixture over the ingredients in the slow cooker.
3. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Butternut Squash and Red Lentil Crockpot Curry
This comforting curry is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, packed with nutritious butternut squash and red lentils. Let your crockpot do the work while you enjoy the aroma filling your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 lbs), peeled, seeded, and cubed
– 1 cup red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Add squash, lentils, onion, garlic, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the crockpot.
2. Pour in diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve over rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
French Lentil Soup with Rosemary and Thyme
French Lentil Soup with Rosemary and Thyme: A Hearty and Flavorful Delight
This classic French soup is a staple of rustic cuisine, made rich and aromatic with the addition of rosemary and thyme. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 sprig fresh thyme, chopped
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, rosemary, and thyme; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the lentils and vegetable broth; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Indian Dal Tadka in the Crockpot
This comforting dish is a staple in many Indian households, and our Crockpot version makes it easy to prepare. With just a few simple ingredients and some tender loving care from your crockpot, you’ll be enjoying a deliciously aromatic and flavorful dal tadka in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup split red lentils (masoor dal)
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon ground coriander
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the lentils, water, oil, onion, garlic, cumin, coriander, and salt to your crockpot.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in a tablespoon of ghee or vegetable oil (optional) to create the signature tadka aroma.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
6. Serve hot over basmati rice or with naan bread.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Lentil Bolognese Sauce for Slow Cooker Pasta
Lentil Bolognese Sauce for Slow Cooker Pasta: A hearty, plant-based twist on the classic Italian sauce!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, finely chopped
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine lentils, onion, garlic, carrot, crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, basil, salt, and pepper.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, cook pasta according to package instructions.
4. Serve sauce over cooked pasta and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Lemon Garlic Lentil and Rice Crockpot Meal
This hearty, comforting dish is perfect for a busy day when you need a nutritious meal without much fuss. The combination of tender lentils, fluffy rice, and bright citrus flavor will leave you feeling satisfied and energized.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, rice, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil to a 6-quart crockpot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. If using chicken broth, add it on top of the ingredients.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Fluff the mixture with a fork before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Servings: 6-8
Spiced Red Lentil and Tomato Slow Cooker Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of spices, lentils, and fresh tomatoes, simmered to perfection in your slow cooker. Serve with crusty bread or over rice for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried red lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups chopped fresh tomatoes (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can coconut milk (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine lentils, tomatoes, onion, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper.
2. Pour in broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on Low for 8 hours or High for 4 hours.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro (optional). If desired, add coconut milk and stir well before serving.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Thai Peanut Lentil Crockpot Stew
Experience the flavors of Thailand with this creamy and aromatic slow-cooked lentil stew, infused with the richness of peanut butter and spices. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp curry powder
– 1/2 tsp ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the lentils, onion, garlic, bell pepper, coconut milk, peanut butter, soy sauce, cumin, curry powder, and ginger to a crockpot.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Lentil and Mushroom Slow Cooker Stroganoff
Transform traditional Beef Stroganoff into a hearty, vegetarian-friendly dish by swapping beef for lentils and adding mushrooms. This comforting slow cooker recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 cup sour cream
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– Fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, mushrooms, onion, garlic, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Pour in vegetable broth and stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Stir in sour cream and Dijon mustard.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Caramelized Onion and Lentil Crockpot Soup
Transform the flavors of autumn into a comforting soup with this simple recipe. Rich caramelized onions and tender lentils combine to create a satisfying and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In the crockpot, combine sliced onions and minced garlic. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
2. Add lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Continue cooking on low for an additional 2-3 hours or until the lentils are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 hours (low) or 6-8 hours (high)
BBQ Lentil Sloppy Joes Made in the Crockpot
Say goodbye to boring sloppy joes and hello to a plant-based twist! This recipe combines tender lentils with sweet and tangy BBQ flavors, all made possible with the convenience of your crockpot.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onion, garlic, ketchup, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to your crockpot.
2. Stir in water and mix well.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. Serve sloppy joes on a bun with your favorite toppings, such as coleslaw, pickles, or jalapeños.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Loaded Veggie Lentil Soup with Crockpot Ease
This loaded veggie lentil soup is a comforting, flavorful treat that’s perfect for a chilly evening. With the convenience of a Crockpot, you can let the ingredients simmer away while you’re busy with other things.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed and drained
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheddar cheese, sour cream, chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and thyme to a Crockpot.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with your desired optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 3-8 hours
Summary
Get ready to fuel your busy weeknights with these delicious and hearty lentil crockpot recipes! With 20 mouthwatering options, you’ll never run out of ideas for quick and easy meals. From spicy stews to creamy curries, smoky soups to flavorful chilies, there’s something for everyone. Try Spicy Lentil and Sweet Potato Crockpot Stew, Creamy Coconut Lentil Curry in the Crockpot, or Moroccan-Spiced Lentil and Chickpea Crockpot Dish, just to name a few. These slow-cooked recipes are perfect for a cozy night in, and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
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