Name: Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 0.75 lb. favorite gluten free pasta; 1/2 cup yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 1 cup white mushrooms, diced; 1 tsp oregano; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes; Pinch of salt and pepper; 14 oz fire roasted diced tomatoes; 24 oz favorite pasta sauce; 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed; 2 cups water (or more as needed); 1 tbsp olive oil

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 44 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting, hearty dish that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor, you’ve got to try this Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe. It’s the perfect plant-powered twist on the classic Italian favorite, delivering rich tomato goodness and earthy lentils simmered to tender perfection. Whether you’re vegan, gluten-free, or just looking to add a wholesome meal to your dinner rotation, this recipe brings together simple ingredients to create something truly special that everyone will love.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pan with a wooden handle is filled with thick, rich stew made from lentils and small pieces of tomatoes. The stew has a deep red color with visible chunks of soft vegetables mixed evenly throughout. A wooden spoon is placed inside the pan, touching the thick stew, giving a sense of warmth and homeliness. The pan rests on a white marbled surface, creating a clean and simple background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe relies on a handful of straightforward ingredients that each play an essential role. From the robust mushrooms adding meaty texture to the aromatic herbs that enhance every bite, these components work harmoniously to make a vibrant, savory sauce.

Gluten-free pasta (¾ lb.): Choose your favorite variety to serve as the perfect base for this saucy masterpiece.
Yellow onion (½ cup, diced): Adds a sweet, aromatic foundation when sautéed until tender.
Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the sauce with a fragrant boost that brightens the entire dish.
White mushrooms (1 cup, diced): Contribute an earthy, meaty texture that mimics traditional Bolognese.
Oregano (1 tsp): Offers warm herbaceous notes that elevate the tomato sauce.
Red pepper flakes (½ tsp): Provides just a hint of gentle heat to keep things exciting.
Salt and pepper (pinch): Essential seasonings to balance and bring out all the flavors.
Fire roasted diced tomatoes (14 oz.): Adds smoky depth to the base of the sauce.
Pasta sauce (24 oz.): Use your favorite to keep the sauce rich and vibrant.
Lentils (1 cup, rinsed green or brown): The star plant-based protein that thickens and enriches the Bolognese.
Water (2 cups, or more as needed): To simmer the lentils perfectly tender without drying out the sauce.
Olive oil (1 tbsp, for sautéing): Helps soften the veggies and bring everything together beautifully.

How to Make Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe

Step 1: Cook Your Pasta

The starting point for any great pasta dish is perfectly cooked noodles. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil, then add your gluten-free pasta. Cook according to package instructions until al dente, then drain and set aside while you prepare the sauce. This simple step ensures your base is ready to soak up all the luscious flavors coming next.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

Next up is the aromatic sauté. Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Toss in diced onion, minced garlic, and diced mushrooms along with oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Sauté everything for about 3 to 5 minutes until the onions are translucent and mushrooms soften, releasing their savory flavor into the mix. This step builds the foundation of your Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe’s deep, comforting taste.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce and Lentils

Once your veggies are softened and fragrant, stir in the fire roasted diced tomatoes, your favorite pasta sauce, rinsed lentils, and water. Mixing these ingredients well ensures every pot will be packed with flavor. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 18 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened just right. This simmer is where everything melds into the hearty sauce that makes this Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe so satisfying.

Step 4: Assemble and Serve

With your pasta cooked and your sauce bubbling with flavor, it’s time to bring it all together. Spoon the luscious lentil Bolognese generously over your pasta. Feel free to add an extra sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick or vegan Parmesan if you like. This dish is ready to be enjoyed immediately—simple, nourishing, and utterly delicious.

How to Serve Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe

A white bowl filled with spaghetti topped with a thick red tomato and lentil sauce that has visible chunks of tomatoes and lentils, sprinkled with fresh green chopped herbs. A silver fork is placed inside the bowl on the right side. In the background, there is another white bowl with more of the sauce, and a smaller white dish with red chili flakes, all placed on a white marbled surface with some scattered green herbs. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Garnishes can elevate your Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe from great to unforgettable. Fresh basil leaves or a handful of chopped parsley add a pop of color and fresh flavor. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast will give an extra layer of richness while keeping the dish vegan and gluten-free. These finishing touches make every bite feel like a special occasion.

Side Dishes

When pairing sides with this robust dish, think light and complementary. A crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette can cut through the richness, while roasted veggies like Brussels sprouts or zucchini add texture and nutrients. Gluten-free garlic bread or a warm slice of crusty gluten-free loaf is also a perfect choice for soaking up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve your Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe stuffed inside large roasted portobello mushrooms or over spiralized zucchini noodles for a low-carb option. Layer it in a gluten-free lasagna for a comforting casserole, or even use it as a flavorful topping for gluten-free bruschetta. Let your imagination run wild with this versatile Bolognese—it’s begging to be enjoyed in all kinds of delicious ways.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

One of the best things about this Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe is how well it keeps. Allow the sauce to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, leftovers will stay fresh for up to 4 days, making a quick weekday dinner or a satisfying lunch option.

Freezing

If you want to keep this comforting meal on hand even longer, freezing is a fantastic option. Portion out the lentil Bolognese sauce into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, leaving some room for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

Reheating your Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe is a breeze. Warm it gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the sauce has thickened, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up. For those in a hurry, the microwave works well too—just heat in intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly.

FAQs

Can I use different types of lentils for this recipe?

Absolutely! Green and brown lentils hold their shape well and work best for this Bolognese, but red lentils can be used if you prefer a softer texture. Just keep in mind red lentils cook faster and tend to break down, creating a creamier sauce.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prepping?

Definitely! The Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe is perfect for meal prepping because it stores and reheats beautifully. Make a big batch and portion it out for several meals throughout the week.

What if I don’t have fire roasted tomatoes?

No worries—regular canned diced tomatoes will work just fine. Fire roasted tomatoes add an extra smoky depth, but your sauce will still be delicious and full of flavor without them.

Can I add other vegetables to this Bolognese?

Yes! Feel free to toss in finely diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers during the sauté step. They add wonderful flavor and extra nutrition, making this dish even more vibrant and hearty.

How spicy is this recipe?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth, but you can easily adjust the amount to your taste. If you want it milder, reduce or omit the flakes; for more heat, feel free to sprinkle extra when serving.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Lentil Bolognese (Vegan & Gluten-Free) Recipe a try soon. It’s one of those meals that feels like a cozy hug on a plate, packed with flavor and nutrition without any fuss. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this recipe hits all the right notes for a satisfying vegan and gluten-free dinner that everyone will rave about. Enjoy every comforting bite!