Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils

Name: Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (any type, rinsed); 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz); 1 can white beans (14 oz, drained and rinsed); 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Daily Collection

I absolutely love preparing Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils on busy weeknights. This dish combines hearty lentils with creamy tomato sauce and white beans, creating a satisfying meal that comes together in under 30 minutes. The flavors blend beautifully, while the textures offer both creaminess and a bit of bite. Whether you’re feeding a family or just treating yourself, this recipe will fill you up and leave you feeling great!

Created by

Lottie Pennington

Last updated on 2026-01-19T23:59:34.457Z

My journey with Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils started on a cold evening when I craved something warm and hearty. I was inspired by the idea of using lentils, which are not only nutritious but also cook relatively quickly. I experimented with different spices and found that a touch of smoked paprika enhances the tomato's natural sweetness.

As I perfected this dish, I discovered that using canned tomatoes and beans saves time without sacrificing flavor. The creaminess comes from a simple blend of dairy or a vegan substitute, making it versatile. It’s a perfect comfort food that doesn't weigh you down!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that satisfies
Nutritious ingredients packed with protein
Quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The choice of lentils is crucial for the texture of this dish. While this recipe allows for any type of lentils, I recommend using green or brown lentils for their firm structure. Red lentils cook faster and tend to become mushy, which might not provide the bite you want in this creamy dish. Rinsing the lentils before cooking not only removes any debris but also helps improve their texture and flavor.

White beans add not just creaminess but also significant protein to this meal, making it heartier. Cannellini or navy beans work exceptionally well in this dish, but if you're looking for a substitution, chickpeas could be used as a robust alternative. The key is to drain and rinse them properly before adding them to ensure you eliminate any canning liquid that can affect the dish's flavor.

Technique Tips for Creaminess

One of the secrets to achieving the creamy texture in this recipe is the incorporation of vegetable broth and diced tomatoes early on. Allowing these to simmer with the lentils not only infuses flavor but also lets the lentils absorb some of that liquid, resulting in a satisfying texture. If you prefer your dish even creamier, consider blending a portion of the mixture before adding the white beans; this technique introduces a silky smoothness without losing the rustic feel of whole lentils.

When you incorporate the white beans, gently folding them into the mixture helps maintain their shape. Be careful not to over-stir, which can result in breaking them apart. They should warm through in about 5 minutes, so keep an eye on them to prevent them from losing their integrity in the dish.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious meal:

Ingredients

1 cup lentils (any type, rinsed)
1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
1 can white beans (14 oz, drained and rinsed)
1 cup vegetable broth
1 medium onion (chopped)
2 cloves garlic (minced)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley for garnish

With all ingredients in hand, you're ready to start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils:

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add the Lentils and Liquid

Add the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well and bring to a simmer.

Cook Until Tender

Cover the pot and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if necessary.

Incorporate White Beans

Once the lentils are cooked, stir in the drained white beans and let the mixture heat through for about 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil or parsley.

Enjoy your homemade meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. You can also substitute the white beans for chickpeas or any beans you prefer.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato White Bean Lentils dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. I often make a double batch to have leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week. Just reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up as needed. Always taste and adjust the seasonings after reheating, as flavors can intensify during storage.

For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions in freezer-safe containers. This recipe freezes beautifully and can be kept for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating, or use the microwave for a quick meal. When reheating from frozen, increase the cooking time and add additional liquid to ensure an even consistency.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this dish with a crusty piece of whole-grain bread to soak up the creamy sauce, or over a bed of cooked grains such as quinoa or brown rice for an extra nutritional boost. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also enhance the creaminess and add a tangy flavor profile that's delightful.

If you want to add extra greens, toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale just before serving. The residual heat will wilt the greens perfectly without losing their vibrant color. A squeeze of lemon juice right before serving can help brighten the flavors, rounding out this comforting meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I store leftovers?

Yes, this dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

→ Can I freeze this recipe?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container for up to 2 months.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, it's vegan-friendly! Just use plant-based cream if you prefer a creamier texture.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It pairs nicely with crusty bread, rice, or a fresh green salad.