If you’re searching for a hearty, nutritious, and easy-to-make meal, this Sausage and Lentil One-Pot is the perfect choice. Combining lean pork sausages, fibre-rich lentils, and vibrant vegetables, this dish is both wholesome and packed with flavour. Best of all, it’s cooked in just one pot, making it an ideal fuss-free meal with minimal washing up.
Inspired by rustic European stews, this dish blends smoky paprika, garlic, and a hint of chilli for a warming depth of flavour. A touch of red wine vinegar and brown sugar (or erythritol) brings balance, creating a rich and satisfying sauce. The lentils absorb the delicious flavours, while the sausages remain juicy and tender.
Not only is this meal delicious, but it’s also incredibly nutritious. The protein-rich sausages and slow-digesting lentils help to keep you full and energised, while tomatoes, peppers, and shallots provide essential vitamins and minerals. The result? A dish that’s balanced, filling, and perfect for any time of year.
Another reason to love this recipe is its affordability. Made with simple, budget-friendly ingredients, it costs just £4.90 for two servings, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re meal-prepping, cooking for two, or need a quick midweek meal, this recipe is sure to become a regular favourite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Sausage and Lentil One-Pot is a winner for so many reasons:
- Easy to Make– Simple steps with no complicated techniques.
- High in Protein & Fibre– Keeps you full and satisfied.
- Minimal Washing Up – Everything cooks in one pot, so fewer dishes!
- Rich, Warming Flavour– A perfect blend of smoky, savoury, and slightly sweet notes.
- Budget-Friendly– A wholesome meal for less than £5.
- Great for Meal Prep– Stores well, making it ideal for batch cooking.
- Easily Customisable– Swap ingredients to suit your tastes.
If you love flavourful, comforting meals that are easy to prepare and packed with goodness, this recipe is for you!
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables:
- 2 tbsp olive oil (30ml) – Adds richness and helps sauté the vegetables.
- 6 lean pork sausages – The main protein source, providing a hearty, meaty flavour.
- 1 tsp minced garlic (5g / 0.18oz) – Enhances depth of flavour with aromatic warmth.
- 1 red pepper, sliced – Adds sweetness and a vibrant pop of colour.
- 3-4 shallots, finely sliced (150g / 5.3oz) – Brings a mild, slightly sweet onion flavour.
Spices & Seasoning:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika (2g / 0.07oz) – Gives a rich, smoky depth to the dish.
- Pinch of chilli flakes (optional) – Adds gentle warmth without overpowering.
- 1 bay leaf – Infuses the dish with an aromatic, earthy flavour.
- Salt to taste – Enhances and balances all the flavours.
Sauce Base:
- 1 can (400g / 14oz) chopped tomatoes – The base of the sauce, providing acidity and richness.
- 1 can (400g / 14oz) lentils, including liquid – A great source of fibre and plant-based protein, adding texture and heartiness.
- 20g brown sugar or erythritol (0.7oz / 1 tbsp) – Balances acidity with a hint of sweetness.
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar (15ml / 0.5oz) – Adds brightness and enhances the overall flavour.
Method
- Brown the Sausages
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large casserole dish or ovenproof frying pan over medium-low heat.
- Add the sausages and cook for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned all over.
- Remove the sausages and set aside.
- Sauté the Vegetables
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (Gas Mark 7 / 425°F).
- Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the pan.
- Stir in the shallots, garlic, red pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Create the Sauce
- Stir in the smoked paprika, chilli flakes, and bay leaf.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and lentils (including their liquid).
- Stir in the brown sugar (or erythritol) and red wine vinegar.
- Combine & Cook
- Place the sausages on top of the mixture.
- Bring to a gentle boil, then transfer to the oven.
- Bake for 25 minutes, adding a little water if needed.
- Serve & Enjoy
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Ensure the sausages are fully cooked (no pink meat remaining).
Nutrition (Per Serving)
- Calories: 532 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 49g
- Fat: 26g
Tips for Success
- Use High-Quality Sausages – The better the sausages, the richer the flavour.
- Don’t Skip the Vinegar – It balances the acidity of the tomatoes.
- Adjust the Spice – Increase or decrease the chilli flakes to suit your preference.
- Check the Liquid Levels – Add a splash of water if the lentils start looking dry.
- Let It Rest Before Serving – This allows the flavours to deepen.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread – Perfect for mopping up the rich sauce.
- Over Mashed Potatoes – A comforting and hearty pairing.
- With Steamed Greens – A lighter, healthier option.
- Topped with Cheese – Parmesan or feta adds an extra layer of flavour.
Customisation Ideas
- Swap the Sausages – Try chicken, turkey, or plant-based sausages.
- Add Extra Vegetables – Mushrooms, courgettes, or spinach work well.
- Make It Spicier – Add fresh chopped chillies or a dash of hot sauce.
- Use Different Lentils – Green or Puy lentils work well but may need pre-cooking.
Storage & Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm on the hob with a splash of water or microwave until hot.
Conclusion
This Sausage and Lentil One-Pot is a fantastic all-rounder—it’s nutritious, easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavour. Whether you’re meal-prepping, cooking for two, or need a comforting dinner, this dish ticks all the boxes.
With its rich, smoky sauce, protein-packed sausages, and hearty lentils, it’s a warming and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, and enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with minimal effort!
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Sausage and Lentil One-Pot
This Sausage and Lentil One-Pot is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with protein-rich lentils, juicy sausages, and a smoky tomato-based sauce, it’s a simple yet satisfying recipe. Cooked in just one pan, this dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or meal prep. With a touch of paprika, chili flakes, and red wine vinegar, it delivers a rich and comforting taste. Serve it with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own for a wholesome, warming meal!
Ingredients
Protein & Vegetables:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 6 lean pork sausages
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 red pepper, sliced
- 3-4 shallots, finely sliced
Spices & Seasoning:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Pinch of chilli flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt to taste
New Group
- Sauce Base:
- 1 can (400g) chopped tomatoes
- 1 can (400g) lentils, including liquid
- 20g brown sugar or erythritol
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Instructions
1. Brown the Sausages:
- Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a large casserole dish or ovenproof frying pan over medium-low heat.
- Add the sausages and cook for 5-10 minutes, turning occasionally until browned all over.
- Remove the sausages and set aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
- Preheat the oven to 220°C (Gas Mark 7 / 425°F).
- Add the remaining 1 tbsp olive oil to the pan.
- Stir in the shallots, garlic, red pepper, and a pinch of salt.
- Cook for 5 minutes until softened.
4. Create the Sauce:
- Stir in the smoked paprika, chilli flakes, and bay leaf.
- Add the chopped tomatoes and lentils (including their liquid).
- Stir in the brown sugar (or erythritol) and red wine vinegar
.5. Combine and Cook:
- Return the browned sausages to the pan, nestling them into the sauce.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Transfer the pan to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, until the sausages are cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
6. Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs or a side of crusty bread.
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