Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet

Name: Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 cup coconut cream or heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley, for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I love whipping up this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet on busy weeknights. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. The nuttiness of lentils combined with the earthiness of mushrooms creates a dish that warms both the heart and the palate. I found that letting the mushrooms sauté until golden before adding the lentils intensifies the flavor, making every bite rich and delicious. Plus, this recipe is perfect for meal prep, as leftovers taste even better the next day!

Created by

Georgia Lane

Last updated on 2026-01-18T02:28:14.854Z

Every time I make my Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet, I'm reminded of how a simple dish can deliver complex flavors. Sautéing the mushrooms until they release their juices not only enhances their umami notes but also adds a depth to the entire dish. I usually play with different mushrooms depending on what I have; each type brings its own character to the skillet.

This recipe has become a staple because it’s both nutritious and delicious. I love serving it with crusty bread on the side or over a bed of rice. It pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, which elevates the dish without much extra effort.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that feels indulgent yet healthy
Packed with protein and fiber from the lentils
Versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables

      

Mastering the Mushrooms

Getting the mushrooms just right is essential for the depth of flavor in this skillet. To achieve a perfect golden brown, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet; this allows the mushrooms to brown evenly instead of steaming. I recommend using high heat after they've released their moisture, which will take about 8-10 minutes. Stir occasionally but not often—this encourages browning, leading to a rich, umami flavor that infuses the entire dish.

If you prefer a different mushroom variety, feel free to substitute shiitake or cremini mushrooms for added depth. Each type has its unique flavor profile and texture. However, note that some mushrooms have a higher water content, which may require extending the sautéing time a bit to achieve that desirable golden hue.

The Cream Factor

Choosing between coconut cream and heavy cream can significantly influence the dish's flavor and texture. Coconut cream lends a subtle sweetness and tropical undertone, complementing the earthy lentils and mushrooms beautifully. If opting for heavy cream, ensure it’s added at lower heat after the skillet has come off the flame to prevent curdling.

For added richness without the calories, consider using a mix of plain Greek yogurt and vegetable broth as a cream alternative. This swap also enhances protein content and provides a tangy balance to the earthy ingredients.

Meal Prep and Serving Suggestions

This Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet shines as a make-ahead meal. The flavors continue to meld over time, making it perfect for leftovers. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. If reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth to prevent drying out, and warm it gently over low heat to retain creaminess.

While this dish is delightful on its own, consider serving it with crusty bread or spooning it over cooked rice or quinoa for a complete meal. A sprinkle of nutritional yeast can also be a great way to add a cheesy flavor without dairy, making it suitable for vegan diets.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create this delicious skillet.

Ingredients

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces mushrooms, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 cup coconut cream or heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before starting the cooking process for best results.

Instructions

Follow these steps to make your Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet.

Cook Lentils

In a medium saucepan, combine rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until lentils are tender but not mushy.

Sauté Aromatics

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Cook Mushrooms

Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet. Cook until they are golden brown and have released their moisture, about 8-10 minutes. Stir in dried thyme and season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Creamify

Once the lentils are cooked, drain any excess liquid and add them to the skillet with mushrooms. Stir in the coconut cream or heavy cream, mixing well until everything is combined and heated through.

Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm with crusty bread or over rice.

Enjoy the creamy goodness of your mushroom lentil skillet!

Pro Tips

Feel free to add different vegetables like spinach or carrots for extra nutrition. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a nice kick!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your lentils don't seem to cook through properly, make sure you're using fresh lentils; older ones can take longer to soften. Additionally, if the water evaporates too quickly, lower the heat and add more broth gradually to keep them covered during cooking. This method ensures they soften adequately without losing flavor.

Should the finished dish appear too thick, simply add a bit more broth or cream until you reach your desired consistency. Conversely, if it’s too watery, allow it to simmer uncovered for a few minutes to encourage evaporation—this helps intensify the flavors while achieving the right thickness.

Flavor Enhancements

For an extra layer of complexity, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. These acidic notes brighten the dish and contrast well with the creaminess, making each bite more satisfying. Experimenting with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary can also give a fresh twist to the traditional flavors.

If you're looking for additional protein, including some tofu or tempeh sautéed alongside the mushrooms is a fantastic option. Just ensure to press and cube your tofu before cooking so it absorbs the skillet's flavors effectively and retains a hearty texture.

Scalability of the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled to accommodate more servings. Simply maintain the proportion of lentils, broth, and cream while adjusting the vegetable quantities as needed. For larger batches, a wide skillet or Dutch oven may be necessary to ensure even cooking of all ingredients.

If you’re hosting a gathering, doubling the recipe is a great idea. As it holds well, you can prepare it ahead of time and simply reheat when guests arrive, making it a stress-free option for entertaining while still delivering on flavor and satisfaction.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, you can use canned lentils. Just rinse and drain them and add them to the skillet at the same time you add the coconut cream.

→ How can I make this recipe vegan?

This recipe is already vegan if you use coconut cream. Just ensure that there are no dairy additives in your vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or over rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. It reheats well on the stovetop or in the microwave.