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🍝 Hearty Lentil Mushroom Pappardelle (Vegan + Easy)

This hearty lentil mushroom pappardelle is the ultimate vegan comfort food! Ready in 30 minutes, packed with flavor, and perfect for cozy nights in.
Print Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian, Mediterranean
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 300 g pappardelle pasta
  • 2-3 tbsp olive oil
  • 70 g onion diced
  • 90 g carrot chopped
  • 200 g mushrooms finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic finely chopped
  • 200 g lentils cooked
  • 600 g marinara sauce
  • 1 tsp tamari
  • 1 tsp balsamic vinegar
  • ½ tsp salt
  • black pepper freshly grounded
  • vegan parmesan for garnish
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Method
 

  1. Cook the Pasta
    Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the pappardelle and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and toss with a drizzle of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
  2. Sauté the Veggies
    In a large skillet, heat 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot. Cook for 5–8 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
  3. Add Mushrooms and Seasoning
    Add the chopped mushrooms, garlic, salt, and a good grind of black pepper. Continue cooking for another 5–8 minutes, until the mushrooms are tender and fragrant.
  4. Build the Sauce
    Stir in the cooked lentils, marinara sauce, tamari, and balsamic vinegar. Let everything simmer gently for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens and flavors meld together.
  5. Toss and Serve
    Add the cooked pasta to the sauce and gently toss to coat. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Turn off the heat, cover the pot, and let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
  6. Garnish and Enjoy!
    Top with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of parmesan (or a vegan version). Serve warm and enjoy your hearty, meatless masterpiece!

Notes

💡 Tips & Variations

  • Pasta swap: No pappardelle? Try tagliatelle, fettuccine, or even spaghetti.
  • Protein boost: Add extra lentils or toss in some sautéed tofu or tempeh cubes.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free pasta and tamari (not soy sauce).
  • Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.

❤️ Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Super comforting and hearty
  • High in plant-based protein
  • Easy to make in one pot
  • Family-friendly and crowd-pleasing
  • Perfect for Meatless Monday or weeknight dinners