Save A comforting vegetarian twist on the classic shepherds pie featuring a savory lentil and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection
This shepherds pie quickly became a family favorite because of its rich flavors and comforting texture
Ingredients
- For the Lentil Filling: 2 tablespoons olive oil, 1 large yellow onion finely chopped, 2 carrots diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 3 garlic cloves minced, 1 cup brown or green lentils rinsed, 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1 teaspoon dried rosemary, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, 1 bay leaf, 2 cups vegetable broth, 1 cup frozen peas, 1 tablespoon soy sauce, Salt and black pepper to taste
- For the Mashed Potato Topping: 2 pounds (about 900 g) Yukon Gold or russet potatoes peeled and cubed, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, 1/3 cup whole milk (or plant-based alternative), Salt and white pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven:
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C)
- Cook potatoes:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender about 15-18 minutes Drain and return to the pot
- Mash potatoes:
- Add butter and milk to the potatoes Mash until smooth Season with salt and white pepper Set aside
- Sauté vegetables:
- While potatoes cook heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onion carrots and celery Sauté until softened about 6-8 minutes
- Add spices:
- Stir in garlic tomato paste thyme rosemary smoked paprika and bay leaf Cook for 1 minute until fragrant
- Cook lentils:
- Add lentils and vegetable broth Bring to a boil then reduce heat cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes until lentils are tender and most liquid is absorbed
- Finish filling:
- Discard bay leaf Stir in peas and soy sauce Season with salt and pepper to taste Simmer for 2-3 minutes
- Assemble pie:
- Transfer lentil mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish Spoon mashed potatoes evenly on top
- Create topping texture:
- Use a fork to create ridges in the potatoes then bake for 20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden
- Cool and serve:
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving
Save My family gathered around the table excited to enjoy this hearty dish on a chilly evening
Notes
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans Pairs well with a robust red wine or a malty ale
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Potato masher 9x13-inch baking dish Mixing spoon Oven
Allergen Information
Contains soy (from soy sauce) and dairy (butter milk) Use tamari for gluten-free and plant-based butter and milk for vegan or dairy-free options Always check ingredient labels for allergens
Save 
This lentil shepherds pie balances nutrition and comfort making it a perfect weeknight meal
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of lentils work best for the filling?
Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well during simmering and absorb flavors effectively.
- → Can the mashed potato topping be customized?
Yes, mashed potatoes can be made creamy with butter and milk or plant-based alternatives for different dietary preferences.
- → How can I add extra umami flavor?
Incorporating chopped mushrooms into the filling adds a rich depth and earthy notes to the dish.
- → What herbs enhance the lentil filling's taste?
Dried thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, and a bay leaf create a fragrant and savory profile to complement the vegetables.
- → What are suitable side dishes to serve with this meal?
A crisp green salad or steamed green beans balance the hearty texture and complement the flavors well.
- → Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, by choosing gluten-free soy sauce alternatives like tamari and using plant-based butter and milk, it can be tailored to gluten-free diets.