Hungry but broke? Our microwave canned lentil and instant mashed potatoes meal delivers hot, filling comfort for under $2 per serving – so cheap it’s practically a crime.
No stove? No problem! You’ll need just three ingredients and 10 minutes to transform pantry staples into a satisfying plate.
We’ll walk through microwave safety, seasoning hacks, and even how to zhuzh up leftovers. Let’s make magic happen!
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Microwave Canned Lentil and Instant Mashed Potatoes – A Quick & Affordable Meal!
Course: Main CourseCuisine: American2
5
minutes5
minutes350
kcal10
minutesIf you're in need of a quick, nutritious meal, this microwave recipe using canned lentils and instant mashed potatoes is your answer. In just a few minutes, you can enjoy a deliciously satisfying dish that requires minimal ingredients and effort, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
of lentils 15 oz
water or vegetable broth
instant mashed potatoes
butter or olive oil
salt and pepper to taste
optional: garlic powder
onion powder
or your favorite herbs.
Directions
- Open the can of lentils and drain the liquid, rinse them under cold water, then transfer the lentils to a microwave-safe bowl.
- Pour in 1 cup of water or vegetable broth over the lentils.
- Season with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or any herbs you prefer, then stir to combine.
- Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe plate or lid, microwave on high for 2-3 minutes, stopping to stir halfway through for even heating.
- While the lentils are heating, prepare the instant mashed potatoes as per package instructions, typically combining 1 cup of boiling water with the mashed potato flakes, adding butter or olive oil, and stirring until fluffy.
- Once the lentils are hot, carefully remove them from the microwave, and serve them over a generous portion of creamy mashed potatoes.
- Mix everything together if desired, and enjoy your affordable, hearty meal..
Notes
- Feel free to customize this recipe by adding your favorite spices or vegetables. For added nutrition, you can mix in frozen peas or corn to the lentils while they cook. This dish is versatile, quick to make, and perfect for a comforting lunch or dinner, ensuring you get a healthy meal without spending much.
Can You Microwave Canned Lentils Safely?
Yes – but ditch the can first! We learned this the hard way when Sarah tried microwaving lentils straight from the tin (spoiler: sparks flew). Always transfer them to a microwave-safe bowl. Canned lentils are pre-cooked, making them ideal for quick heating. For those who enjoy a fast meal, cheap microwave canned lentil instant teff can be a fantastic option. This dish combines convenience with nutrition, making it perfect for busy lifestyles.
Understanding Microwave Safety for Canned Lentils
Metal cans and microwaves mix like toddlers and white carpets – badly. Most cans have plastic linings containing BPA or similar compounds that can leach into food when heated. Drain and rinse lentils thoroughly to reduce sodium content by up to 40%, then microwave uncovered for 1-2 minutes.
Pro tip: Add a tablespoon of water to prevent drying. Stir halfway through for even heating. Timmy calls these “lava lentils” because they get piping hot – let them rest 30 seconds before eating!
Can You Microwave Instant Mashed Potatoes?
Absolutely! Instant potatoes are basically dehydrated cooked spuds. Mix ½ cup water per serving in a microwave-safe mug or bowl. Microwave for 2 minutes, stir vigorously, then let sit 1 minute. Watch for starchy explosions – loosely cover with a paper towel. For a quick and satisfying meal, consider using a cheap microwave instant potato bowl. They offer a convenient way to prepare delicious, fluffy potatoes in minutes.
Preparing Instant Potatoes in the Microwave
Ratios matter here. For creamy (not gluey) potatoes:
| Servings | Potato Flakes | Liquid |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | ⅓ cup | ½ cup water/milk |
| 2 | ⅔ cup | 1 cup water/milk |
My kids prefer milk instead of water – it adds richness for just 15¢ extra per serving. For extra flair, stir in a pat of butter after microwaving. If your potatoes look like cement, add warm liquid 1 tsp at a time while stirring. For a quick and easy method, how to make mashed potatoes in the microwave can save time and deliver delicious results. It’s a simple way to enjoy creamy mashed potatoes without much fuss.
Now that we’ve nailed the basics, let’s talk about why this odd-sounding combo actually works wonders on tired taste buds…
What Does This Lentil and Mashed Potato Meal Taste Like?
Imagine creamy clouds hugging earthy nuggets – that’s this meal in a nutshell. The lentils bring a mild, nutty flavor with a tender bite (no mushy cafeteria vibes here), while the potatoes offer blank-canvas comfort. For a delightful, budget-friendly option, consider a cheap microwave canned lentil stew. This warm dish is not only convenient but also perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Flavor Profile and Texture Expectations
Plain instant potatoes taste like a shy cousin of real mashed spuds, but we’ll fix that. Canned lentils have a softer texture than dried ones – think al dente pasta meets bean salad. Together, they create a savory-smooth contrast that’s oddly addictive. For an even quicker meal option, consider pairing it with cheap microwave canned lentil instant rice, which complements that creamy texture and boosts protein content.
My college roommate once ate this daily for a month, claiming it tasted “like a hug from a carb fairy.” We’re not endorsing food monogamy, but it’s shockingly satisfying. For those who prefer a savory twist on simplicity, lazy microwave instant oatmeal can be transformed into a delightful dinner option. It allows for easy meal prep while satisfying hunger with comforting flavors.
Also See: Microwave Eggnog Latte Cake: A Festive Treat
Ingredients for Microwave Canned Lentils and Instant Mashed Potatoes
Grab these MVP ingredients:
Essential Ingredients &Amp; Pantry Substitutes
- Canned lentils: 1 can (15 oz) works for 2 servings. No lentils? Use canned beans (drain well!).
- Instant mashed potatoes: ⅓ cup flakes per person. Powdered potatoes work too.
- Liquid: Water’s free, but broth or milk adds flavor.
Budget-friendly Alternatives and Add-ins
Raid your fridge’s condiment zone:
| Upgrade | Cost | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Shredded cheese | $0.20/serving | Melty richness |
| Hot sauce | $0.02/dash | Zingy wake-up call |
| Garlic powder | $0.01/sprinkle | Depth without chopping |
My secret weapon? A splash of pickle juice – adds tang for zero dollars.
Also See: 2-minute Microwave Egg Fried Rice – No Stove Needed!
How to Make Microwave Canned Lentils and Instant Mashed Potatoes
Let’s turn pantry staples into dinner in 8 minutes flat. Timing is key – we’ll multitask like pros! With a few clever microwave tricks, those leftovers can easily be transformed into gourmet meals that impress. Imagine taking last night’s dinner and revitalizing it with just a sprinkle of creativity and heat.
Step-by-step Microwave Lentil Preparation
- Drain lentils in a colander. Rinse until water runs clear (reduces sodium by 35%).
- Dump into microwave-safe bowl. Add 2 tbsp water or broth.
- Microwave uncovered 90 seconds. Stir. Heat 30 more seconds if needed.
Warning: Lentils may pop like tiny fireworks. Use a splatter guard or large bowl. Cooking lentils in the microwave is a quick and efficient way to prepare them. The right method can yield perfectly cooked lentils in just a matter of minutes.
Microwaving Instant Mashed Potatoes: Detailed Directions
- In a large mug, whisk ⅓ cup potato flakes + ½ cup liquid.
- Microwave 1 minute. Wait 30 seconds (prevents starch volcanoes).
- Stir vigorously. If too thick, add liquid 1 tsp at a time.
Pro move: Add butter before microwaving. The fat distributes better when heated!
Combining and Seasoning Your Meal
Now, the fun part! Layer potatoes and lentils in a bowl. Hit them with:
- Black pepper (mandatory)
- Paprika or cumin (1/8 tsp max)
- Fresh herbs if you’re feeling fancy
Mix gently or keep them separated – I won’t judge. My 5-year-old insists on arranging hers into “food islands.”
Even with perfect execution, sometimes things go sideways. Let’s troubleshoot common disasters next…
Common Mistakes and How to Fix Them
Avoiding Soggy Lentils or Lumpy Potatoes
We’ve all been there – opening the microwave to find lentils swimming in murky broth or potatoes resembling wet concrete. Sogginess stems from inadequate draining. Always rinse canned lentils under cold water for 30 seconds, shaking the colander like you’re panning for gold. Those stubborn starch particles? They’re the enemy of crispness.
Lumpy potatoes happen when we rush the process. After microwaving, let spuds sit for 60 seconds – this “steam bath” softens remaining granules. Stir with a fork using quick wrist flicks, not lazy circles. If chunks persist, add warm milk ½ teaspoon at a time while mashing sideways against the bowl walls.
Adjusting Consistency and Seasoning
Microwave wattages vary, so textures can betray us. For lentils drier than desert air: sprinkle 1 teaspoon water and microwave 10 seconds. For potatoes thinner than cafeteria gravy: mix in potato flakes ½ teaspoon at a time. It’s important to remember that some foods can easily be ruined in the microwave if not prepared properly. Many people microwave these foods wrong, leading to undesirable textures and flavors.
Bland food is a cardinal sin. Canned lentils need flavor CPR:
- Too salty? Add 1 teaspoon lemon juice to neutralize sodium
- Too flat? ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika mimics bacon’s magic
- Too earthy? A pinch of sugar brightens metallic undertones
My roommate once accidentally used cinnamon instead of cumin. We fixed it with hot sauce and rebranded it as “Moroccan-inspired.” Crisis averted! Speaking of cinnamon, it can also make for a quick and delightful addition to meals like lazy microwave instant oatmeal. This easy dish provides a warm, comforting flavor without much fuss, perfect for busy mornings.
Mastered the art of microwave rescue? Let’s tackle keeping your culinary masterpiece tasting fresh(ish) for days. With a few simple tricks, even microwaved fries can be transformed to taste like they just came from the fryer. You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to make them crisp and delicious again!
Now It’s Your Turn to Try!
We’ve walked through every step of making this cheap, filling microwave meal – from safety tips to flavor hacks. Canned lentils and instant mashed potatoes prove you don’t need fancy ingredients for a satisfying dish.
Grab your microwave-safe bowl and experiment with different seasonings. A pinch of smoked paprika or splash of hot sauce can transform this budget meal into something special. Let us know your favorite combos!
