Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff
Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff is a rich, comforting plant-based twist on the classic creamy pasta dish. Earthy mushrooms and hearty lentils create a savory base that feels satisfying and wholesome, while a silky sauce adds warmth and depth without needing heavy meat or complicated ingredients. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy weekends, or meal prep because it reheats beautifully and stays flavorful. Served over pasta, rice, or mashed potatoes, it offers a balanced combination of protein, fiber, and comforting textures that appeal to both vegetarians and traditional stroganoff lovers.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 cup dried brown or green lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
12 oz (340 g) mushrooms, sliced (cremini or button)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
½ cup unsweetened plant-based milk or dairy milk
½ cup sour cream or plain vegan yogurt
Salt and black pepper to taste
8 oz egg noodles or pasta of choice
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Cook lentils in water until tender but not mushy, about 20 minutes; drain and set aside.
Cook pasta according to package instructions; reserve ½ cup pasta water.
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add chopped onion and sauté until soft and translucent.
Stir in garlic and sliced mushrooms; cook until mushrooms release moisture and brown slightly.
Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, and thyme; cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor.
Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well to form a base for the sauce.
Slowly pour in vegetable broth and soy sauce, stirring constantly to prevent lumps.
Add cooked lentils and simmer until the sauce thickens, about 5–7 minutes.
Reduce heat and stir in milk and sour cream; season with salt and pepper, then serve over pasta with parsley.
Tips
Slice mushrooms evenly so they cook at the same rate.
Do not overcook lentils; they should hold shape.
Brown mushrooms well for deeper flavor.
Stir flour thoroughly to avoid clumps in sauce.
Add broth gradually for a smoother consistency.
Taste before salting since soy sauce adds saltiness.
Use pasta water to loosen sauce if it thickens too much.
Stir dairy or yogurt in at low heat to prevent curdling.
Fresh herbs add brightness just before serving.
Let the dish sit a few minutes before serving so sauce thickens naturally.
Variations
Add spinach or kale for extra greens.
Replace lentils with chickpeas for a different texture.
Use coconut milk for a richer dairy-free version.
Add white wine when sautéing mushrooms for depth.
Stir in caramelized onions for sweetness.
Include diced carrots or peas for more vegetables.
Use whole wheat pasta or gluten-free noodles as needed.
Add a spoon of Dijon mustard for tangy complexity.
Sprinkle nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
Serve over mashed potatoes or rice instead of pasta.
Q&A
Can I use canned lentils?
Yes, rinse and reduce cooking time.
Is this recipe vegan?
Yes, if you use plant-based milk and yogurt.
Can I freeze it?
Yes, freeze without pasta for best texture.
How long does it last in the fridge?
Up to 4 days in an airtight container.
What mushrooms work best?
Cremini, button, or portobello slices.
Can I make it gluten-free?
Use gluten-free flour and pasta.
How do I thicken the sauce?
Simmer longer or add a small flour slurry.
Can I make it oil-free?
Sauté vegetables in broth instead.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, reduce paprika for milder flavor.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely, just use a larger pan.
Nutrition (Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 380
Protein: 16g
Carbohydrates: 48g
Fiber: 11g
Fat: 13g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 420mg
Conclusion
Lentil Mushroom Stroganoff proves that comfort food can be both nourishing and satisfying without sacrificing flavor. The combination of earthy mushrooms, hearty lentils, and creamy sauce creates a dish that feels indulgent while remaining wholesome and versatile. It works equally well for casual family dinners, meal prep, or plant-based entertaining. Once you master the basic method, you can easily adjust ingredients and flavors to match your taste or pantry, making it a reliable and delicious addition to your regular recipe rotation.