Name: Ultimate Creamy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Middle Eastern
Ingredients: 2 tbsp olive oil or plant-based butter; 1 onion, finely chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup long grain rice (basmati or jasmine); 3/4 cup brown or green lentils (rinsed and soaked if needed); 2 1/2 cups vegetable broth or water; 1 cup coconut milk or oat milk; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1/2 tsp ground coriander or turmeric (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish; Optional: 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tbsp nutritional yeast, pinch of chili flakes

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Ultimate Creamy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice is a cozy, nourishing dish made with tender lentils, perfectly cooked rice, and a rich garlicky base—all simmered together in one pan for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup. It’s creamy, hearty, and naturally plant-based, making it one of my favorite comfort meals when I want something filling, healthy, and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how everything comes together in one pan—less mess, more flavor. The garlic adds depth, while the lentils bring protein and heartiness. The creamy texture makes it feel indulgent, but it’s full of whole ingredients I feel good about. It works great as a main dish or a side, and it’s incredibly easy to customize with spices or veggies depending on my mood. Ultimate Creamy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Olive oil or plant-based butter
Onion, finely chopped
Garlic, minced
Long grain rice (like basmati or jasmine)
Brown or green lentils (rinsed and soaked if needed)
Vegetable broth or water
Coconut milk or oat milk (for creaminess)
Ground cumin
Ground coriander or turmeric (optional)
Salt and black pepper
Fresh parsley or cilantro (for garnish)
Optional: lemon juice, nutritional yeast, or chili flakes

Directions

I heat olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat, then sauté the chopped onion for 3–4 minutes until softened.
I add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
I stir in the rice and lentils, coating them in the oil and aromatics for 1–2 minutes.
I pour in the vegetable broth, coconut milk, and seasonings, then bring everything to a boil.
I reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes, until the lentils and rice are tender and the mixture is creamy. I stir occasionally and add a splash more liquid if needed.
I let it sit covered for 5 minutes off the heat, then fluff gently and stir in fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon if I want extra brightness.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 4 hearty servings. It takes 10 minutes to prep and around 35–40 minutes to cook—ready in under an hour.

Variations

I stir in spinach, kale, or peas during the last few minutes for added greens.
I use red lentils for a quicker-cooking version with a softer texture.
Sometimes I swap coconut milk for cashew cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy twist.
I mix in curry powder or smoked paprika for a spiced version.
I add roasted vegetables or grilled tofu on top for a full meal.

storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, I warm it on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen the texture. It also freezes well—I thaw it overnight and reheat gently. Ultimate Creamy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, but I reduce the cooking time and use less liquid since canned lentils are already soft. I add them after the rice is halfway cooked.

What rice works best?

I like basmati or jasmine for a soft, fluffy texture. Brown rice works too but needs more liquid and time.

How do I keep it from sticking to the pan?

I stir occasionally while it simmers and make sure the heat stays low. A nonstick or heavy-bottomed pan helps a lot.

Can I make it without coconut milk?

Yes. I use oat milk, almond milk, or even just extra broth for a lighter version. For creaminess, I stir in a spoonful of tahini or blended cashews.

Is this good for meal prep?

Absolutely. It keeps well, reheats beautifully, and the flavors even deepen after a day in the fridge.

Conclusion

Ultimate Creamy One-Pan Garlicky Lentil Rice is one of my favorite go-to recipes when I want something comforting, healthy, and incredibly easy. With just one pan and a handful of pantry staples, I get a dish that’s rich, filling, and full of flavor. Whether I’m making it for a weeknight dinner or prepping meals for the week, it never lets me down.