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Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe

Hey friend, I’ve got a cozy, hearty dish to share that’s been a total game-changer in my weeknight dinner rotation — the Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe. What’s great about this meal is how it all comes together in one pan, saving you time on cleanup while still packing in a ton of flavor and nutrition. It’s the kind of recipe that warms you up on a chilly evening and fills your belly with wholesome goodness.

What really makes this Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe special is how the smoky, spicy sausage blends perfectly with the earthiness of lentils and creaminess of chickpeas. Plus, it’s easy to customize whether you want it vegan (I love using Beyond Sausage) or meat-filled. You’ll find it’s reliably comforting, incredibly satisfying, and, honestly, kind of addictive once you try it — so get ready for some happy leftovers, too!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together so smoothly because each one adds a layer — from texture, flavor, or nutrition — making this one-pot meal truly stand out. When shopping, I keep an eye out for fresh veggies and a quality plant-based sausage, but you can swap that for your favorite brand or even regular sausage if you prefer.

  • Vegetable oil: Helps sauté the veggies and sausage without sticking; olive oil works too if you prefer.
  • Beyond Sausage: I love the flavor and texture it brings, but any plant-based or traditional sausage works.
  • Onion: Adds sweetness and depth — I always go for a yellow or white onion here.
  • Carrot: Provides subtle sweetness and a little crunch that balances the dish.
  • Celery: Brings aromatic freshness — it’s a classic base for savory meals.
  • Red pepper: Adds a pop of color and natural sweetness.
  • Garlic cloves: I never skip garlic — its pungent aroma is key!
  • Canned green lentils: Using canned saves time but still gives great texture; rinse to reduce saltiness.
  • Canned chickpeas: Another protein-packed staple; rinsed to keep flavors balanced.
  • Vegetable stock: Use low-sodium if you want more control over seasoning.
  • Canned chopped tomatoes: The base of the sauce — juicy and vibrant.
  • Cajun seasoning: Brings that spicy kick — adjust depending on how much heat you like.

Variations

I like to change up this Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe depending on what’s in my pantry or the season. Don’t hesitate to make it your own — that’s half the fun of one-pot meals, right? Here are a few ways I’ve customized it that you might enjoy.

  • Variation: Swap Beyond Sausage for spicy chorizo for a smoky, meaty version I adore on cooler nights.
  • Variation: Add a handful of fresh spinach or kale near the end of cooking — it sneaks in greens without overpowering the dish.
  • Variation: Use red lentils instead of canned green ones for a more tender texture; just watch the cooking time.
  • Variation: For extra heat, I sometimes throw in a diced jalapeño or some smoked paprika with the Cajun seasoning.
  • Variation: Try adding a splash of white wine or balsamic vinegar just before serving for an extra tangy pop.

How to Make Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Veggies and Sausage

Heat your vegetable oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This slow sauté builds flavor — don’t rush it! Next, push the veggies to the side and add your sliced Beyond Sausage. Let it brown a bit, releasing those wonderful smoky aromas, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Build the Flavor Base

Stir in the chopped red pepper and garlic cloves, cooking for another 2 minutes until fragrant. Then sprinkle in the Cajun seasoning and give everything a good stir, letting the spices toast for just a moment — that really awakens their flavor.

Step 3: Add the Lentils, Chickpeas, and Liquids

Pour in the drained and rinsed lentils and chickpeas. Add the vegetable stock and canned chopped tomatoes, stirring gently to combine everything. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Let it gently bubble away, uncovered, for about 15-20 minutes so the flavors marry and the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust

Before serving, taste your Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe for seasoning. Add salt if needed (I often find the Cajun seasoning adds enough), and a bit of black pepper or extra spice if you want more kick. If it feels too thick, splash in a bit more stock or water to loosen it up.

How to Serve Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe

Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

My favorite garnish for this dish is a handful of fresh chopped parsley or cilantro — it brightens up the smoky, hearty flavors beautifully. Sometimes, I add a dollop of dairy-free yogurt or sour cream to cool things down, especially if I turned up the heat with the Cajun seasoning.

Side Dishes

This recipe holds its own as a complete meal, but I like pairing it with crusty bread for mopping up the sauce or a simple green salad on the side to add freshness. Roasted seasonal veggies also work nicely if you want extra color and nutrients on the plate.

Creative Ways to Present

For a dinner party, I’ve served this Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe in shallow bowls lined with toasted pita and sprinkled with crumbled feta and toasted pine nuts for a Mediterranean twist. It’s fun to dress it up and gets everyone talking about what’s in the pot!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep really well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. I find flavors deepen overnight, which means your next-day meal tastes even better. Just make sure to cool it down before refrigerating to keep everything fresh.

Freezing

If you like having ready meals on hand (like me!), this recipe freezes beautifully. I portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-lock bags and it holds up for 2-3 months without losing texture or flavor.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over low heat with a splash of water or stock to loosen it up. Microwave works fine too — just cover and stir halfway through. I avoid high heat to keep the lentils and chickpeas from drying out.

FAQs

  1. Can I use dried lentils instead of canned for this Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe?

    Absolutely! If you’re using dried lentils, rinse and soak them beforehand, then add them early in the cooking process with enough liquid to cook them fully—typically around 20-30 minutes simmering. Keep an eye on the liquid level to prevent sticking.

  2. Is this Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe vegan-friendly?

    Yes, it can be! Using Beyond Sausage or another plant-based sausage makes it completely vegan. Just double-check your vegetable stock and seasoning blend to avoid any animal products.

  3. How spicy is the Cajun seasoning in this recipe?

    Cajun seasoning typically adds a moderate heat with smoky and peppery notes. You can adjust the amount used based on your tolerance — start with less if you’re sensitive and add more to taste.

  4. Can I make this recipe in advance for meal prep?

    Definitely! This Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge and even tastes better as flavors meld. Portion it out for lunches or quick dinners throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Honestly, I find this Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe to be one of those gems that you reach for over and over — it’s reliable, comforting, and adaptable. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this dish delivers warmth and satisfaction with minimal fuss. Give it a try, and I’m pretty sure it’ll become one of your favorite go-tos, just like it is for me!

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Sausage, Lentil, and Chickpea One-Pot Recipe

  • Author: Isabella
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: American
  • Diet: Vegan

Description

This hearty one-pot dish combines Beyond Sausages with nutrient-packed lentils and chickpeas, all simmered together with vibrant vegetables and Cajun seasoning. It’s a flavorful, protein-rich vegan meal perfect for a comforting dinner with minimal cleanup.


Ingredients

Scale

Protein & Legumes

  • 1 pack Beyond Sausage
  • 1 x 400g can green lentils in water, drained and rinsed
  • 1 x 215g can chickpeas in water, drained and rinsed

Vegetables

  • 1 onion, diced
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 2 sticks celery, chopped
  • 1 red pepper, sliced
  • 2 garlic cloves, chopped

Liquids & Others

  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 150ml vegetable stock
  • 1 x 227g can chopped tomatoes
  • 3 tsp Cajun seasoning

Instructions

  1. Heat oil and cook sausage: Heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Remove the Beyond Sausages from the packaging, slice or crumble them as desired, and add to the pot. Cook until browned and heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
  2. Sauté vegetables: Add the diced onion, carrot, chopped celery, sliced red pepper, and chopped garlic to the pot. Cook the vegetables, stirring occasionally, until softened and fragrant, about 5-8 minutes.
  3. Add legumes and season: Stir in the drained green lentils and chickpeas, then sprinkle the 3 teaspoons of Cajun seasoning over the mixture. Mix well to coat all ingredients evenly with the spices.
  4. Add liquids and simmer: Pour in 150ml of vegetable stock and the can of chopped tomatoes. Stir everything together, bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
  5. Simmer to combine flavors: Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to develop and the dish to thicken slightly.
  6. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste the dish and add salt or extra seasoning if needed. Serve hot as a fulfilling one-pot meal.

Notes

  • Beyond Sausage is a plant-based alternative, making this recipe entirely vegan.
  • You can swap canned green lentils for dried lentils if you prefer, but adjust cooking times accordingly.
  • Feel free to add fresh herbs like parsley or coriander for an extra fresh flavor boost.
  • This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day after flavors have melded.
  • For extra heat, add a pinch of chili flakes along with the Cajun seasoning.

Keywords: Beyond Sausage, lentils, chickpeas, one-pot meal, vegan, Cajun seasoning, healthy dinner, plant-based protein

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