Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils

Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Home Healthy Meals Inspiration

I absolutely love making this creamy tomato white bean lentils dish because it embraces comfort food while still being nutritious. The combination of lentils and white beans creates a harmonious blend of textures, and the creamy tomato sauce ties everything together beautifully. This recipe is perfect for cozy nights in or quick dinners when time is short. Plus, it’s so satisfying that you won't even miss the meat. It's a dish that nourishes both body and soul with its rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

Created by

Linnea Porter

Last updated on 2026-01-21T18:53:34.930Z

When I first tried this creamy tomato white bean lentil recipe, I was surprised at how quickly it came together. The lentils cook down perfectly and absorb the flavor of the tomatoes and spices, creating a deliciously creamy texture. One tip I discovered is to let the dish simmer for a few extra minutes to enhance the flavor even more; it makes a big difference!

This recipe highlights the beauty of plant-based meals, and it's amazing how versatile it can be. I often swap out ingredients based on what's in my pantry, such as using different beans or adding in greens for extra nutrition. It always turns out great!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture that's both comforting and satisfying
Rich flavors from tomatoes and spices that ignite your taste buds
Packed with protein and fiber to keep you full and energized

Perfecting the Texture

One of the standout features of this creamy tomato white bean lentils dish is its texture. The lentils provide a hearty base, while the white beans add a creamy, velvety quality. To achieve the perfect balance, ensure you cook the lentils until they are tender but not mushy—about 25 minutes is usually ideal. If you overcook them, they will lose their shape and contribute to a less appealing texture. Monitor them closely, especially in the last few minutes of cooking.

For an extra creamy effect, consider using a stick blender to puree a portion of the lentils and sauce, leaving some whole. This technique not only thickens the dish but also enhances its overall richness. Just be mindful not to over-blend; you want to retain some of the structure for a delightful bite.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a vital role in building flavor and nutrition. The combination of dried oregano and paprika adds warmth and depth, while fresh basil provides a bright and aromatic finish. If you don’t have paprika on hand, smoked paprika can offer a delicious twist. Additionally, if you're sensitive to garlic, you can reduce the amount or substitute with garlic powder—just remember that the flavor intensity will differ.

Using good-quality canned tomatoes is key to a robust sauce. Look for brands that include only tomatoes and salt for minimal additives. If you prefer a more fresh taste, you can replace the canned tomatoes with about 4-5 fresh tomatoes, diced. This might shorten cooking time slightly, so keep an eye on the pot to ensure your sauce maintains its desired consistency.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare a delightful creamy tomato white bean lentils dish:

Essential Ingredients

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your creamy tomato white bean lentils:

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for about 5 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cook the Lentils

Add in the lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Stir in the Beans

Once the lentils are cooked, gently stir in the white beans. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes to warm the beans through and meld the flavors.

Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the creamy tomato white bean lentils hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For added creaminess, consider blending half of the mixture with an immersion blender before mixing in the beans. This gives a delightful texture that elevates the dish even further.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This creamy tomato white bean lentils dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare it up to three days in advance—just let it cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce if it has thickened too much.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. This dish freezes beautifully for up to three months. To reheat, allow it to thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it on low heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

Serving Suggestions

While the creamy tomato white bean lentils can stand alone as a hearty meal, pairing it with crusty bread or a fresh salad can elevate your dining experience. A light, citrusy salad with lemon vinaigrette would complement the richness of the dish wonderfully. Alternatively, serve it over a bed of cooked quinoa for added protein and texture.

For a bit of heat, consider sprinkling some red pepper flakes on top before serving. It adds a lovely kick that contrasts nicely with the creamy sauce. For a unique twist, garnish with crumbled feta or nutritional yeast to introduce a savory, tangy flavor dimension.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of beans?

Absolutely! Feel free to replace the white beans with chickpeas or kidney beans based on your preference.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely plant-based and vegan-friendly.

→ How long does it last in the fridge?

You can store it in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring to airtight containers for freezing.