Name: Simple Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Vegetarian / Vegan
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 oz mushrooms (cremini or button), sliced; 1 cup cooked brown or green lentils; 1 teaspoon smoked or sweet paprika; 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1/2 cup sour cream, Greek yogurt, or dairy-free alternative; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish); Cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes (for serving)

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

This Simple Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff is a hearty, comforting dish that swaps traditional beef for earthy mushrooms and protein-rich lentils. It’s creamy, flavorful, and totally satisfying—perfect for a meatless meal that doesn’t feel like a compromise. I love how it comes together quickly with pantry staples, making it a go-to when I want something cozy and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how rich and creamy this stroganoff is without being heavy. The mushrooms give it that savory umami depth, and the lentils add great texture and nutrition. It’s completely plant-based (if I use dairy-free options) and super filling. Whether I serve it over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, this dish always feels like comfort food done right. Simple Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Brown or green lentils (cooked)
Mushrooms (sliced – I like cremini or button)
Onion (chopped)
Garlic (minced)
Vegetable broth
Soy sauce or tamari
Dijon mustard
Paprika (smoked or sweet)
Sour cream or plain Greek yogurt (or dairy-free alternative)
Olive oil or butter
Salt and pepper
Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Cooked pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes (for serving)

Directions

I start by heating oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. I sauté the onions until soft, then add the garlic and mushrooms.
I cook the mushrooms down until they’re browned and have released their moisture—this usually takes about 8–10 minutes.
I stir in paprika, soy sauce, mustard, and cooked lentils, mixing everything well.
I pour in vegetable broth and let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes to thicken slightly and let the flavors blend.
I reduce the heat and stir in sour cream or yogurt until creamy. I adjust salt and pepper to taste.
I serve it warm over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, topped with fresh parsley if I have it.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4 people. It takes around 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so I can have it on the table in about 30 minutes.

Variations

I sometimes add spinach or kale at the end for a nutritional boost. For more richness, I use cashew cream instead of yogurt. If I want a smoky flavor, I add a pinch of liquid smoke or use smoked paprika. To make it gluten-free, I use tamari instead of soy sauce and serve it over gluten-free pasta or grains.

storage/reheating

Leftovers store well in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat them gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. It also freezes well—just cool completely and store in an airtight container. Simple Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff

FAQs

Can I use canned lentils?

Yes, I often use canned lentils for convenience. I just drain and rinse them before adding.

What kind of mushrooms work best?

I usually go with cremini or button mushrooms, but shiitake or portobello add even more flavor.

Is this dish vegan?

It can be! I just use a plant-based yogurt or sour cream and oil instead of butter.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Definitely. It keeps well and the flavors deepen as it sits. I reheat just before serving.

What can I serve it with?

I love it over egg noodles, but rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread all work beautifully too.

Conclusion

This Simple Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff is everything I want in a comforting, quick meal—creamy, savory, and satisfying without being complicated. It’s easy to customize and makes a great meatless main that everyone enjoys. Whether I’m cooking for a busy weeknight or just want something cozy and filling, this dish always delivers.