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 brown lentils; 2 cups vegetable broth; 8 oz mushrooms, sliced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup coconut milk; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

I absolutely love whipping up this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet whenever I crave something comforting yet healthy. It’s packed with rich flavors and is surprisingly quick to make. The combination of earthy lentils, creamy sauce, and savory mushrooms is simply irresistible. Plus, it’s a great one-pan dish that minimizes cleanup! My family adores this recipe, and I know it will become a favorite in your household too. Let’s dive into making this delicious meal that is sure to impress anyone at the dinner table!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-18T04:07:13.583Z

When I first made this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet, I couldn't believe how wonderfully the flavors blended together. I was experimenting with a few pantry staples, and the results were nothing short of magical. The lentils not only add nutrition but also a hearty texture that absorbs the rich, creamy sauce beautifully.

One tip I learned during my cooking journey is to sauté the mushrooms until they’re golden before adding them to the skillet. This really enhances their umami flavor and gives the dish a depth that my family has come to adore. Trust me, it’s a game-changer!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Rich, creamy texture that is both comforting and satisfying
Packed with nutrients from lentils and mushrooms
Easy one-pan meal perfect for weeknight dinners

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The ingredients in this Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet play a crucial role in achieving its hearty flavor and texture. Brown lentils are perfect for this dish as they hold their shape well during cooking, providing a pleasing bite. Unlike red lentils, which tend to break down and become mushy, brown lentils give the dish a satisfying firmness. Additionally, the earthy flavor of mushrooms complements the lentils, adding depth to the dish. Choosing a mix of different mushrooms, like cremini and shiitake, can elevate the complexity of flavors even further.

Coconut milk acts as the base for the creamy sauce, offering a rich and luscious consistency that pairs beautifully with the earthy ingredients. If you're looking for a lower-fat alternative, you can use unsweetened almond milk or cashew cream, but keep in mind that these may not yield the same richness. A little nutritional yeast can also be stirred in for a cheesy flavor while keeping the dish vegan-friendly.

Cooking Techniques for Success

Cooking the lentils properly is key to this recipe's success. Be sure to rinse the lentils under cold water before adding them to the broth, as this helps to remove any debris and can prevent them from becoming too starchy. Keep an eye on them while they simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If you find the lentils absorbing too much liquid, simply add a splash more broth to keep them moist until fully cooked.

When sautéing the onions and mushrooms, it's important to get the skillet hot enough before adding these ingredients. This allows the mushrooms to caramelize properly, enhancing their natural umami flavor. Sauté the onions until they are just beginning to turn golden, then add the sliced mushrooms. If you crowd the pan, the mushrooms may steam instead of brown, so use a large skillet for best results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to get started:

Ingredients

1 cup brown lentils
2 cups vegetable broth
8 oz mushrooms, sliced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup coconut milk
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are prepared before you start cooking for the best experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious meal:

Cook the Lentils

In a saucepan, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are tender.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are golden brown.

Combine and Add Creaminess

Stir in the minced garlic, cooked lentils, and thyme. Pour in the coconut milk and mix until everything is well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from heat, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Enjoy your creamy and savory dish that is both nutrient-dense and satisfying!

Pro Tips

For an added twist, consider incorporating some spinach or kale at the end of cooking for extra nutrients and color.

Storage and Meal Prep Tips

This Creamy Mushroom Lentil Skillet is ideal for meal prep! You can make it in advance and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. The flavors will even deepen as it sits, making it a perfect make-ahead dish for busy weeks. To reheat, simply transfer the skillet contents to a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of broth or coconut milk to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop, adding a little liquid as needed to maintain the creamy texture.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet dish is flavorful enough to be served on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. For a complete meal, serve it over a bed of fluffy quinoa or alongside a fresh green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The bright acidity of the salad will balance the richness of the coconut milk.

If you're catering to different dietary preferences, feel free to top the skillet with crumbled feta or goat cheese for a creamy, tangy punch. You could also add a splash of lemon juice just before serving for an extra burst of freshness. And don’t forget to garnish with fresh herbs; a sprinkle of chopped fresh dill or chives can elevate the flavor profile and presentation.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use red lentils instead of brown?

Yes, but red lentils cook faster and may result in a different texture.

→ Is there a substitute for coconut milk?

You can use heavy cream or almond milk for a different flavor and texture.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to give it some heat!

→ Can I meal prep this dish?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.