Brown Rice and Lentil Casserole
A hearty winter meal we love, often paired with dark bread and a salad. Sometimes, it’s all we have for dinner! Adapted from Amy Dacyczyn's "The Complete Tightwad Gazette."
Steps for Brown Rice and Lentil Casserole
Here's a step-by-step instructions for making Brown Rice and Lentil Casserole:
- Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
- Mix all ingredients except the cheese in a baking dish (I use an 11 x 7).
- Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour 10 minutes.
- Then remove the foil, add the cheese, and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Why you'll love Brown Rice and Lentil Casserole
- Nutrient-Rich: Brown rice and lentils are both packed with essential nutrients, including fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. This casserole provides a wholesome meal that supports overall health, aids digestion, and helps maintain steady energy levels throughout the day.
- Versatile and Customizable: The casserole can easily be adapted to suit various dietary preferences and tastes. You can add different vegetables, spices, or herbs to enhance the flavor and nutrition, making it a great dish for meal prep, family dinners, or potlucks.
- Budget-Friendly: Both brown rice and lentils are inexpensive pantry staples, making this casserole an economical option for feeding a family or meal prepping for the week. It can feed a crowd without breaking the bank, and leftovers can be stored for easy reheating.
Brown Rice and Lentil Casserole
Ingredients
- 3 cups chicken broth or 3 cups vegetable broth
- 3⁄4 cup lentils
- 1⁄2 cup brown rice
- 3⁄4 cup chopped onion
- 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
- 1⁄4 teaspoon garlic powder (I use more)
- 1 cup grated cheese (cheddar or a blend is preferable)
Instructions
-
Preheat the oven to 300 degrees.
-
Mix all ingredients except the cheese in a baking dish (I use an 11 x 7).
-
Cover with foil and bake for 1 hour 10 minutes.
-
Then remove the foil, add the cheese, and bake for an additional 20 minutes.
Notes
- Ensure that both the brown rice and lentils are properly rinsed and soaked (if required) before cooking; this helps to remove any impurities and reduces cooking time, resulting in a more even texture in your casserole.
- Monitor the liquid levels while baking, as brown rice and lentils absorb moisture during cooking; adding enough broth or water is crucial to prevent the casserole from becoming dry and to achieve the desired consistency.
