Back to recipes
Pesto Parmesan Lunchbox-Later Lentil Shepherd’s Skillet with Garlic Breadcrumbs, an original WorkLife Meal Plan recipe

One Pot

Pesto Parmesan Lunchbox-Later Lentil Shepherd’s Skillet with Garlic Breadcrumbs

Basil pesto and nutty Parmesan for instant weeknight appeal. This recipe makes a cozy vegetable-and-lentil filling with a quick golden potato topping, planned to hold well for tomorrow's lunch, with a golden, savory crunch. It is designed for dependable prep, familiar groceries, and a calm family dinner.

Plant-basedFreezer-friendlyComfort foodGreat leftoversFamily favorite
Prep19 min
Cook33 min
Serves4
Total52 min
Build a smart cart

Add this meal to an editable plan and review every suggested ingredient.

What you’ll need

Ingredients

  • 2 cans lentils, rinsed and drained
  • 1 yellow onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 8 oz cremini mushrooms, chopped
  • 2 cups frozen peas
  • 3 cups prepared mashed potatoes
  • 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
  • 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
  • 3/4 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/3 cup basil pesto
  • 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice
  • 1/2 cup whole-grain breadcrumbs
  • 1 garlic clove, finely grated
Add to smart cart

Make it happen

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat the broiler. Warm olive oil in an oven-safe skillet and cook onion, carrots, and mushrooms for 8 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add 1/3 cup basil pesto and 1/3 cup finely grated Parmesan, lentils, broth, and salt. Simmer until slightly thickened, about 8 minutes.

  3. 3

    Stir in peas. Spoon mashed potatoes over the filling and spread to the edges.

  4. 4

    Broil for 5–7 minutes until golden in spots. Rest for 5 minutes, add Parmesan and a few torn basil leaves, and serve.

  5. 5

    Toast the breadcrumbs and garlic in a dry skillet until golden, then sprinkle over each serving.

Estimated per serving

Nutrition at a glance

Estimates are provided for planning and are not medical advice.

470calories21gprotein18gfiber