Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils

Name: Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option); Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Fresh Meals

I absolutely love this Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils recipe. It combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the richness of a creamy tomato sauce, resulting in a comforting dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying. Whether served over rice or enjoyed on its own, this meal can be made in just about 30 minutes! The lentils provide a hearty texture, while the spices elevate the flavors to make every bite delightful. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or whenever I crave something comforting yet nourishing.

Created by

Odette Fairbanks

Last updated on 2026-01-15T17:37:38.535Z

When I first made this dish, I was amazed at how quickly it came together. The combination of tomatoes and mushrooms brings forward an umami flavor that pairs beautifully with lentils. Plus, I love how versatile it can be; you can easily add in your favorite herbs or vegetables depending on what you have on hand.

One little tip I discovered is to let the lentils simmer a bit longer for creaminess. I often add a splash of vegetable broth if it appears too thick, which creates a perfectly velvety texture. This has become a staple in my kitchen, and I hope it becomes one in yours too!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Creamy texture envelops the lentils for ultimate comfort
Rich tomato flavor with a hint of earthiness from mushrooms
Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights

Understanding the Ingredients

Lentils are the backbone of this dish, providing not only protein but also a satisfying texture that balances beautifully with the creaminess of the sauce. Using green or brown lentils ensures they hold their shape throughout the cooking process. If you're short on time, canned lentils can substitute, but you'll miss out on that freshly cooked texture that adds depth to the dish.

Mushrooms inject an earthy flavor that provides a contrast to the tangy tomato base. They also release moisture when cooked, which enhances the overall creaminess. I love using cremini or button mushrooms, but feel free to experiment with portobello for a more robust taste. For a fun twist, try adding a handful of fresh spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra boost of nutrition.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Results

When sautéing the onions and garlic, pay attention to the heat—medium is ideal to avoid burning. You want the onions to become translucent; this should take about 5 minutes. Adding the mushrooms too soon can lead to sogginess, so let the onions sweat first to develop flavors and create a solid base for your sauce.

Be careful not to overcook the lentils; they should be tender yet still firm enough to hold their shape. After about 15 minutes, check for doneness by tasting. If you find they are getting mushy, quickly drain off excess broth to prevent them from breaking apart as they combine with the sauce.

Ingredients

Ingredients:

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1/2 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for vegan option)
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

Instructions:

Prepare the Lentils

Rinse the lentils under cold water, then add them to a pot with the vegetable broth. Bring to a boil and then lower to a simmer, cooking for about 15 minutes or until tender.

Sauté Vegetables

While the lentils cook, heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.

Add Mushrooms and Spices

Stir in the sliced mushrooms, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms have softened.

Combine with Lentils

Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess liquid and add them to the mushroom mixture along with the canned tomatoes. Stir well to combine.

Finish with Cream

Finally, pour in the heavy cream and stir until everything is well mixed and heated through. Adjust seasoning as needed.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm over rice or pasta, or enjoy on its own!

Pro Tips

Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices according to your taste preferences!

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils dish is an excellent candidate for meal prep. You can prepare the lentils and sauce a day in advance, then store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to eat, simply reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

If you want to freeze leftovers, ladle the cooled lentil mixture into freezer-safe bags or containers. It's best enjoyed within 3 months for optimal flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating on the stove, and you’ll rediscover its creamy goodness!

Serving Suggestions and Variations

While this dish is delightful served over rice or pasta, it also pairs beautifully with toasted bread for a cozy meal. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding olives or feta cheese as a topping. If you're craving more spice, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking for a subtle kick that complements the creaminess perfectly.

To make this recipe vegan, simply replace heavy cream with coconut cream. The coconut milk will add a unique depth of flavor while keeping that creamy texture intact. Alternatively, you could use cashew cream blended from soaked cashews for an extra nutty flavor that aligns beautifully with the lentils.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! You can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or any plant-based cream.

→ How long will leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the lentils for up to 2 months. Reheat on the stovetop when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils?

This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, crusty bread, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.