All Recipes - Lentil-Walnut Taco Casserole

Lentil-Walnut Taco Casserole

Name: Lentil-Walnut Taco Casserole
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; 1 medium red onion diced; 1 bell peppers diced; 2 cloves garlic minced; 2 cup cooked lentils firm, not mushy; 0.5 cup walnuts finely chopped; 2 tsp ground cumin; 2 tsp smoked paprika; 1 tsp dried oregano; 0.5 tsp chili powder; salt to taste; pepper to taste; 1.5 cups tomato diced; 0.5 cup corn; 8 corn tortillas, fresh cut into strips or triangles; 0.25 cup olives chopped; 0.5 cup tomato chopped; 1 cup water; 0.5 cup sharp cheddar, reduced fat optional; 2 green onion chopped; 1 avocado sliced or diced; cilantro; Greek yogurt, nonfat optional

Looking for a hearty twist on a classic comfort dish? This Lentil Walnut Taco Casserole combines the rich, savory flavors of tacos with the wholesome goodness of lentils and walnuts. Packed with fiber, protein, and brain-healthy fats, it's a satisfying meal that supports your well-being without compromising on taste.

Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the "Taco Meat" Layer

1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium red onion, diced
1 bell peppers, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cup cooked lentils, firm, not mushy
1/2 cup walnuts, finely chopped
2 tsp ground cumin
2 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp chili powder
salt, to taste
pepper, to taste
1 1/2 cups tomato, diced
1/2 cup corn
1 cup water

8 corn tortillas, fresh, cut into strips or triangles
1/2 cup sharp cheddar, reduced fat, optional

For Topping After Baking

1/4 cup olives, chopped
1/2 cup tomato, chopped
2 green onion, chopped
1 avocado, sliced or diced
cilantro
Greek yogurt, nonfat, optional

Instructions

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly oil or spray a 9x9 casserole dish.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion and cook 3 minutes.
Add garlic, bell pepper, lentils, walnuts, and all spices. Stir and cook for 3–5 minutes until mixture is fragrant and cohesive.
Add diced tomatoes and corn. Add 1 cup of water or juice (if using canned tomatoes). Simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Add a layer of tortilla pieces on the bottom of the dish. Top with half the lentil mixture. Repeat layers, finishing with the lentil mixture. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.
Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.
After baking, sprinkle with olives, chopped tomatoes, and green onions. Let cool for 5 minutes. Add avocado, fresh herbs, and optional Greek yogurt or yogurt-lime sauce.

Published: May 18, 2025