Savory Meatless Bolognese

This rich and hearty sauce is packed with flavorful vegetables and herbs, making it a perfect meatless alternative for your pasta nights. It’s easy to prepare and sure to satisfy both vegetarians and meat lovers alike.

Start cooking ↓

TIME44 min

SERVINGS4

RATING5.0 / 5

01 / WHAT YOU NEED

Ingredients

1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 cups finely chopped mushrooms 1 cup finely chopped leek 2 teaspoons salt 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes coarsely ground black pepper to taste 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes ¾ cup creme fraiche 2 carrots, grated ½ cup red lentils 3 tablespoons vegetable broth (such as Knorr® Touch of Taste) ½ teaspoon sambal oelek (chile paste)

02 / HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

Step 1

Start by heating some oil in a large pan over medium heat. Toss in the mushrooms, leek, a pinch of salt, red pepper flakes, and pepper. Cook everything together, stirring now and then, until the mushrooms have softened—this usually takes around 5 to 10 minutes. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, creme fraiche, grated carrots, red lentils, vegetable broth, and a spoonful of sambal oelek to the pan. Give it a good stir, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently. Cover the pan and let it cook for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally so all those flavors can meld beautifully.

03 / EXTRA DETAILS

Good to know.

Cook's tip

- Use a variety of mushrooms to add depth and a meaty texture.
- Let the sauce simmer slowly to develop richer flavors.
- Season gradually and taste as you go to balance acidity and sweetness.

Why you’ll love it

This dish is full of rich, comforting flavors without any meat. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic comfort food while keeping things vegetarian. Plus, it’s packed with vegetables and plant-based protein, making it both hearty and nutritious.

Serving ideas

Serve this sauce over your favorite pasta, such as spaghetti or pappardelle. It also works well spooned onto creamy polenta or alongside garlic bread for a cozy meal. A sprinkle of fresh basil or grated Parmesan on top adds a nice finishing touch.

Storage & leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This sauce also freezes well; portion it out and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if it seems too thick.