Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils

Name: Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup cream or coconut milk (for creaminess); Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Highlighted under: Balanced Meals

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils, especially on cozy evenings when I crave something hearty yet comforting. The combination of savory mushrooms, tangy tomatoes, and nourishing lentils creates a beautiful medley of flavors that always hits the spot. What’s more, the creamy texture achieved with minimal effort allows the dish to come together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal. Serve it over rice or pasta, and you have a satisfying dinner that feels indulgent without the guilt.

Created by

Belinda Fraser

Last updated on 2026-01-21T19:57:35.135Z

When I first decided to experiment with lentils, I was unsure how they would turn out. Mixing them with creamy tomatoes and sautéed mushrooms made all the difference! Not only did my family love it, but I also discovered that pairing the right spices could elevate the dish even further. I opted for a hint of garlic and Italian seasoning, which beautifully complemented the natural earthy flavors.

Every time I make this recipe, it’s a hit. I often make extra to enjoy for lunch the next day. The secret to the creaminess without heavy cream is blending a portion of the lentils with the broth – trust me, it results in a luscious texture that you won’t forget!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy texture that satisfies your cravings
Packed with hearty lentils and savory mushrooms
Simple ingredients come together for a delicious, nutritious meal
Perfectly balanced flavors with just the right amount of tanginess

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are a powerhouse of nutrients, providing a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. In this recipe, using green or brown lentils is crucial as they hold their shape well during cooking and add a hearty texture to the dish. Rinsing the lentils before use helps remove any debris and ensures they cook evenly. Remember, lentils can vary in cooking time depending on their age and storage; checking for tenderness at the 20-minute mark is a good practice.

One common mistake with lentils is cooking them in too much water, which can lead to a soupy consistency. The key is to use just enough broth to create a rich sauce without overwhelming the lentils. If you find your lentils too thick, you can always add more broth or water a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Perfecting Creaminess

Achieving the perfect creamy texture in your Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils is all about balance. Using cream or coconut milk not only enriches the dish but also complements the tanginess of the tomatoes. If you're looking to make this dish dairy-free, coconut milk is an excellent choice as it brings a slight sweetness that pairs beautifully with savory ingredients. When adding the cream, make sure to stir gently and allow it to heat through, which will prevent curdling and ensure a velvety finish.

Blending a portion of the lentils enhances the creaminess without needing excessive dairy. When you reserve and blend part of the mixture, you create a silky base that helps coat the remaining lentils. This technique is not only effective but also allows you to control the overall creaminess to your liking. If a bit more richness is desired, consider stirring in a tablespoon of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides. Serving over rice or pasta makes for a satisfying meal, but it can also be fun to try this dish with quinoa or even atop a baked sweet potato for a unique twist. If you want to add some greens, toss in fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking for a nutritious boost and a pop of color.

To spice things up, consider adding different herbs or spices to the mix. A pinch of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes can elevate the flavor profile, bringing warmth and depth. You could also experiment with different types of mushrooms; shiitake or portobello would add a meaty flavor, while keeping the dish vegetarian. Finally, leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to three days, making it a perfect meal prep option.

Ingredients

For the Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
¼ cup cream or coconut milk (for creaminess)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms, cooking for another 5 minutes until the mushrooms are tender.

Cook the Lentils

Add the rinsed lentils and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the diced tomatoes and Italian seasoning, and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the lentils are tender.

Create Creaminess

Once the lentils are cooked, reserve a cup of the mixture and blend it until smooth. Stir this back into the pot with the remaining lentils and mix in the cream or coconut milk. Allow to cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Serve and Garnish

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm, garnished with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy with your choice of rice or pasta!

Pro Tips

For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar at the end. You can also throw in some spinach or kale for added nutrition.

Storage and Reheating

If you happen to have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors often improve after a day, making this dish a fantastic make-ahead option. For optimal freshness, allow the lentils to cool completely before sealing them in the container. You can also freeze the lentils for up to three months, though it's best to leave out the cream until you're ready to reheat. Simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight before warming.

Reheating is easy; just place the lentils in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen the mixture. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Alternatively, you can reheat them in the microwave, covered, in short 1-minute intervals until heated through. Just be cautious not to let the lentils dry out during the reheating process.

Ingredient Substitutions

This recipe is quite forgiving when it comes to ingredient swaps. If you're out of green or brown lentils, red lentils can be used, but note that they will cook much faster and will create a softer texture. You can also replace the mushrooms with a variety of vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers if you prefer a different flavor or if you have leftovers to use up. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they may not need as long to become tender.

If you want to avoid dairy, using almond milk or oat cream can also work as substitutes for the cream or coconut milk. The key is to maintain the creaminess while using what you have on hand. Additionally, fresh herbs like basil or thyme can offer a fresh twist compared to the Italian seasoning, so feel free to adapt based on availability and preference.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Just use coconut milk and ensure your vegetable broth is plant-based.

→ How long will leftovers last?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, it freezes well! Portion into containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

→ What can I serve with this?

This dish pairs beautifully with rice, pasta, or crusty bread.