Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake

Name: Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 medium sweet potatoes, diced; 1 cup lentils, cooked; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)

Highlighted under: Oven Collection

I love how this Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake brings together hearty flavors and wholesome ingredients. The combination of tender sweet potatoes, nutritious spinach, and protein-rich lentils makes for a delicious, comforting meal that feels both nourishing and satisfying. Each bite is packed with goodness, and I'm always amazed at how easy it is to prepare. It’s a great dish to serve for a family dinner or to meal prep for the week ahead. Trust me, this recipe is a game-changer for any home cook.

Created by

Zinnia Fairweather

Last updated on 2026-01-15T12:53:46.021Z

When I first created this Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake, I was specifically looking for a comforting dish that also packed a nutritional punch. By layering sweet potatoes with spinach and lentils, I found a way to create a bake that not only tastes great but also keeps me feeling energized throughout the day. The lentils provide a fantastic source of protein, while the sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility. You can easily swap out the vegetables based on what you have on hand, or even add some spices to elevate the flavors further. I encourage everyone to take this basic recipe as a foundation and make it their own. It’s satisfying to discover new and delicious combinations!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and wholesome ingredients for a filling meal
Rich in plant-based protein and vitamins
Easy to customize with your favorite veggies
Perfect for meal prepping and leftovers

      

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake is undeniably the sweet potatoes. They provide a natural sweetness and creamy texture that blends beautifully with the earthiness of the lentils and the freshness of the spinach. When choosing sweet potatoes, look for firm ones without any soft spots or blemishes to ensure the best flavor and texture. They should be diced into uniform pieces so they cook evenly throughout the bake.

Fresh spinach not only adds vibrant color to this dish but also delivers a wealth of nutrients. It wilts down during baking, enhancing the overall flavor without overwhelming the dish. If you’re looking for a substitution, kale can work well but may require slightly longer cooking time due to its sturdier leaves.

Baking Techniques

When assembling your bake, ensure all ingredients are evenly combined. This distribution helps each bite contain a perfect balance of sweet potatoes, lentils, and spinach. I recommend using a wooden spoon or spatula to mix; this allows you to fold ingredients gently without mashing the sweet potatoes.

Covering the baking dish with foil initially traps steam, which helps cook the sweet potatoes thoroughly without drying out the dish. After 30 minutes, removing the foil promotes browning on the top, creating a slightly crisp texture that complements the soft interior.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a wholesome and flavorful bake.

Ingredients

2 medium sweet potatoes, diced
1 cup lentils, cooked
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 onion, finely chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup vegetable broth
1/2 cup feta cheese (optional)

Make sure to wash and prepare all ingredients before starting your bake.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake.

Prepare the Ingredients

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, combine the diced sweet potatoes, lentils, fresh spinach, onion, and garlic. Mix in the spices, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

Assemble the Bake

Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and pour the vegetable broth over the top. If using feta cheese, sprinkle it on now.

Bake in Oven

Cover the baking dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. After this time, remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes or until the sweet potatoes are tender.

Serve & Enjoy

Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your hearty Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake!

Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with a side salad or crusty bread.

Pro Tips

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to the mix for added flavor and nutrition.

Storage & Reheating

This Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake stores incredibly well, making it perfect for meal prep. After cooling, transfer leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to five days. For longer storage, consider freezing individual portions. Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can affect the texture upon reheating.

To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight, then pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. You can also reheat in the microwave, covering it to retain moisture; aim for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.

Customization Ideas

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its versatility. Feel free to add in other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or even butternut squash for additional flavor and nutrition. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as denser vegetables may need a bit longer to soften.

For those who want a bit more spice, adding cayenne pepper or chili flakes during the mixing phase can give it a delightful kick. Additionally, if you're looking to enhance the protein content, consider tossing in some cooked quinoa or chickpeas before baking.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils for this recipe?

Absolutely! Just make sure to rinse them well before adding to the mixture.

→ Is there a vegan alternative to feta cheese?

Yes! You can use nutritional yeast or omit the cheese entirely for a vegan version.

→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this Sweet Potato Spinach Lentil Bake freezes well. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing.