Baked Lentils with Bacon
Looking for a hearty and flavorful dish that will warm up your home and please your taste buds? Try our delicious Baked Lentils with Bacon recipe. This cozy dish combines the earthy richness of lentils with the savory crunch of bacon, creating a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or casual gatherings. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be prepared ahead of time, making it a convenient option for busy days. Let’s dive into the recipe and get cooking!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup dried green or brown lentils
– 4 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, diced
– 1 celery stalk, diced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with non-stick cooking spray.
2. In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and the fat is rendered, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the skillet with the bacon. Sauté the vegetables until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Cook for another minute to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Add the dried lentils to the skillet and stir to combine with the vegetables and bacon.
6. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let it cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the lentils to absorb some of the liquid.
7. Transfer the lentil mixture to the greased baking dish and spread it out evenly. Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
8. Bake the lentils in the preheated oven for 30-35 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.
9. Remove the foil and sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the top of the lentils. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Garnish the baked lentils with chopped fresh parsley before serving. Enjoy this comforting dish hot out of the oven!
These Baked Lentils with Bacon are sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation. With their rich flavors and satisfying texture, they are perfect for a cozy night in or a casual dinner with loved ones. Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite herbs or spices to make it your own. Give this recipe a try and let it warm both your home and your heart.
