Some dinners just check every box—cozy, hearty, wholesome, and easy on the wallet. This spaghetti with lentil bolognese is one of those real-life wins. It’s rich, satisfying, and every bit as comforting as the traditional version, but lighter, cheaper, and full of plant-based protein.

Red lentils simmer until soft and slightly creamy, creating a texture that mimics ground meat beautifully. Paired with sautéed onions, garlic, carrots, and celery in a tomato-rich sauce, it’s the kind of meal that fills your kitchen with that classic Italian aroma.

At under $4 for four generous portions, this is a dinner you’ll feel good about serving again and again. It’s simple enough for busy weeknights but special enough to freeze, reheat, and enjoy later when life gets hectic.

Your Emergency $5 Dinner Kit

Dinner stress is real — especially when you’re low on time, energy, or cash. This kit has your back. Inside you’ll find 5 budget-friendly dinners (all under $5) using simple pantry staples — no fancy stuff, no weird ingredients, just real food your family will actually eat.

Instant access + no junk, promise.

All the Comfort, None of the Cost

Traditional bolognese can be pricey, but lentils make it affordable without sacrificing heartiness. You’ll still get that rich, saucy flavor—just for a fraction of the price.

Packed with Protein & Fiber

Lentils aren’t just filling—they’re loaded with plant-based protein and fiber to keep you satisfied. Combined with whole wheat pasta, this is a well-rounded meal that fuels your body while feeling indulgent.

Freezer-Friendly for Busy Nights

This sauce freezes beautifully, so you can double the batch and stash some away for easy dinners later. It’s one of those make-once, eat-twice meals that saves both time and money.

Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor

Everything in this recipe comes from everyday pantry staples—lentils, canned tomatoes, and a few veggies. With Italian herbs and garlic, the flavor is anything but basic.

Cozy, One-Pot Worthy Flavor

Once you toss it with spaghetti, the sauce clings perfectly to each strand, creating that cozy, family-style comfort you crave on chilly nights. It’s a budget-friendly dinner that tastes like it came straight from your favorite Italian restaurant.

Ingredients

1 cup red lentils, rinsed
3 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 carrot, finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
8 oz whole wheat spaghetti

(Optional: Top with fresh basil, parmesan, or a drizzle of olive oil before serving.)

Instructions

In a medium pot, add lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 12–15 minutes, until lentils are soft and most of the broth is absorbed.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery; sauté 5–7 minutes until softened.
Stir in the cooked lentils, crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer 10–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened and rich.
While the sauce simmers, cook spaghetti according to package instructions. Drain and toss with the sauce.
Serve warm, topped with herbs or cheese if desired.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Estimated Cost: $4 total / $1 per serving
Calories: ~360 per serving
Fat: ~6g
Protein: ~17g
Carbohydrates: ~62g