Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils

Name: Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Salt and pepper to taste; ½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils because they combine comforting flavors with wholesome ingredients. Every time I prepare this dish, I find the rich and creamy texture so satisfying, and it’s a great way to incorporate healthy lentils into my meals. Plus, the vibrant color and aroma from the tomatoes and mushrooms uplift the entire cooking experience. Whether I serve it over rice or enjoy it on its own, this recipe is a staple in my kitchen, perfect for any season.

Created by

Tabitha Green

Last updated on 2026-01-15T15:01:23.836Z

When I first tried making lentils, I wasn’t sure they would satisfy my taste buds. However, this creamy tomato mushroom version changed everything for me. The combination of lentils, tomatoes, and mushrooms creates a deliciously rich sauce that elevates the dish remarkably. I learned that adding a touch of cream towards the end makes it luxurious—you need to try it!

Each time I share this dish with friends, I’m reminded of how easily it comes together. It’s perfect for busy weeknights, and the leftovers are even better the next day. I like to pair it with crusty bread or over a bed of rice, which absorbs all the flavorful sauce wonderfully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that hugs every lentil
Flavor explosion from fresh herbs and spices
Perfect for meal prep and easy to reheat

      

The Role of Lentils

Lentils are the star of this dish, providing a robust and hearty texture. Green or brown lentils hold their shape well during cooking, making them ideal for this creamy mixture. Their earthy flavor pairs beautifully with tomatoes and mushrooms, enhancing the overall depth of the dish. I recommend rinsing the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any impurities, which will improve the final taste.

Cooking lentils properly is crucial. Overcooking can lead to them becoming mushy, while undercooking results in a hard texture. It's best to simmer them gently for about 20 minutes, checking for tenderness halfway through. A perfect lentil retains its shape while being pleasantly soft, making it the perfect canvas for absorbing the flavors you’ll develop in the next steps.

Sautéing for Flavor

The process of sautéing the onion and garlic is essential for building the flavor base of this recipe. Cook them until they are translucent—around 3 minutes is usually sufficient. Adding the mushrooms afterwards allows them to release their moisture and caramelize slightly, creating a rich, savory depth that contrasts beautifully with the tartness of the crushed tomatoes. Keep the heat at medium to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

If you're looking to add extra flavor, consider deglazing the skillet with a splash of white wine after sautéing the vegetables. Scraping up the browned bits on the bottom of the pan adds an incredible depth of flavor to the final dish. Just let the wine evaporate before adding the tomatoes and broth for a nuanced taste.

Perfecting the Creaminess

Incorporating cream—heavy or coconut—adds a luxurious texture and rounds out the dish, making it creamy and comforting. Stir the cream in just before serving to prevent it from curdling. If you prefer a lighter version, you could use unsweetened almond milk or a cashew cream, though this will alter the flavor profile slightly. Adjusting seasoning at this stage is crucial, so taste and tweak with salt and pepper to ensure balance.

For added visual appeal and freshness, consider garnishing with freshly chopped herbs, such as basil or parsley, before serving. This not only enhances the dish's aesthetics but also elevates the flavor profile, providing a burst of freshness that complements the deep, rich flavors of the lentils and sauce.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create your creamy lentil delight:

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 cup vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper to taste
½ cup heavy cream or coconut cream

You can customize these ingredients based on your taste preferences.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils:

Cook the Lentils

In a pot, combine lentils and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer for about 20 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic, cooking until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add mushrooms and sauté until soft.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, oregano, basil, and seasoned lentils. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Finish with Cream

Reduce heat and stir in cream, cooking until heated through. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Creamy Tomato Mushroom Lentils can be served in various ways depending on your preference. For a complete meal, spoon the mixture over a bed of fluffy rice or quinoa, which adds another layer of texture. If you're aiming for a low-carb option, serve it with sautéed spinach or zucchini noodles, which work well to soak up the flavorful sauce.

You can also serve this dish as a hearty filling in wraps or pita bread, turning it into a delightful sandwich that’s packed with nutrients. Add some fresh greens like arugula or spinach for crunch and freshness. This versatility allows the dish to adapt to different meal occasions, from family dinners to meal prepping for the week.

Storing and Reheating

This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a great choice for meal prepping. To store, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can also freeze portions of it for up to three months. When reheating, it’s best to do so in a saucepan over medium heat while adding a splash of vegetable broth to regain creaminess.

If you notice the dish thickening too much after refrigeration, simply stir in a little water or broth while reheating. This will help return it to the desired consistency and ensure that the texture remains as enjoyable as when freshly made. Keep an eye on the stovetop while reheating to prevent it from sticking or burning on the bottom.

Variations to Try

This recipe can be easily customized to suit various tastes and dietary needs. For protein enthusiasts, adding cooked sausage or shredded chicken during the simmering stage can enhance the dish. Alternatively, for a vegan version, simply stick with coconut cream and omit any animal products while ensuring the vegetable broth is plant-based.

Consider adding different vegetables to the mix, like spinach, kale, or bell peppers, for added nutrition. You can stir them in while simmering for those which don't require long cooking times. Adjusting herbs and spices can also transform the flavor profile; try a dash of smoked paprika for a subtle smokiness or crushed red pepper flakes for heat.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use another type of lentils?

Yes, but cooking times may vary. Red lentils cook faster and will create a creamier texture.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

You can easily make it vegan by substituting heavy cream with coconut cream or a vegan alternative.

→ How long can leftovers be stored?

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

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Just ensure it’s cooled before transferring it to a freeze-safe container.