Why You’ll Love Red Lentil Tomato Pasta Sauce Recipe

The addition of red lentils brings extra protein and fiber, turning a simple tomato sauce into a more satisfying, meal-worthy dish.
The flavor stays classic and comforting — tomato, butter, garlic, onion — but the texture becomes luxuriously smooth when blended.
It’s freezer-friendly: make a big batch, freeze what you won’t use immediately, and have quick pasta nights ready to go.
Versatile and adaptable: you can skip the cream, add parmesan, use broth instead of water — easy to tailor to your preferences.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

unsalted butter (4 tbsp)
chopped onion
salt (1 tsp plus extra to taste)
minced garlic (2 tsp)
canned whole tomatoes (28 oz)
dry red lentils, rinsed and sorted (1 cup)
water (3 cups)
fresh thyme sprigs (2–3)
optional: heavy cream (for serving)
optional: grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

Directions

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and 1 tsp salt. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Stir in the canned whole tomatoes, red lentils, water, and fresh thyme sprigs. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the lentils are soft.
Remove the thyme sprigs. Blend the sauce with an immersion blender (or transfer to a blender after cooling slightly) until smooth and creamy.
Taste and adjust salt as needed.
To serve, cook your pasta until al dente, drain it 1–2 minutes early, and toss it in the sauce for 1–2 minutes so it absorbs the flavor.
Optional: stir in a splash of heavy cream and top with grated parmesan before serving.

Servings and timing

Servings: Approximately 10
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

For a vegan version: omit the heavy cream and parmesan, or use plant-based alternatives.
Use vegetable broth instead of water for added depth.
Stir in diced mushrooms, zucchini, or spinach for a veggie boost.
Blend only half the sauce for a chunkier texture.
Add red chili flakes or smoked paprika for extra heat.
Swap butter with olive oil for a lighter version.

Storage/Reheating

Store sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding water or pasta water to loosen if it’s too thick.
If reheating pasta with the sauce, you may need extra sauce or water as pasta continues to absorb liquid.

FAQs

What makes this sauce different from a regular tomato pasta sauce?

This version includes red lentils, which add creaminess, protein, and fiber—making it more filling and nutritious than traditional sauces.

Can I use other types of lentils instead of red lentils?

Red lentils are preferred because they break down quickly and blend smoothly. Other lentils hold their shape and require longer cooking.

Do I need to peel or remove the skins from the canned tomatoes?

No, blending the sauce takes care of the skins and seeds. Just use the tomatoes straight from the can.

Is heavy cream necessary?

Not at all. It’s completely optional and only added if you want a richer, creamier finish.

Can I serve this sauce over something other than pasta?

Yes. It works well over zucchini noodles, lentil or chickpea pasta, stuffed shells, or as a base for lasagna.

How can I adjust this for a family with picky eaters?

Blend the sauce until smooth so the lentils are undetectable. A little grated cheese can also help make it more familiar.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. It stores well in the fridge or freezer and makes pasta night faster and easier.

How thick should the sauce be?

It should be thick enough to coat pasta but not overly dense. Add a splash of pasta water if it needs loosening.

Does it freeze well with the cream/parmesan added?

It’s best to freeze the sauce before adding dairy. Add cream or cheese fresh when reheating.

Can I double this recipe?

Absolutely. It’s perfect for batch cooking and freezes beautifully for future meals.

Conclusion

Red lentil tomato pasta sauce is a delicious and practical way to boost your everyday pasta dishes. With a creamy texture, rich flavor, and added nutrition, it’s perfect for families, meal prep, or anyone craving a wholesome, comforting meal. Whether you serve it plain or dressed up with cream and cheese, this sauce is sure to become a repeat favorite.

Red Lentil Tomato Pasta Sauce