Save to Pinterest 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 dish has become a favorite in my home because of how satisfying and flavorful it is without meat.
Ingredients
- 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
- 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
- Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 400℉ (200℃).
- Step 2:
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender about 15-18 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
- Step 3:
- Add butter and milk to the potatoes. Mash until smooth. Season with salt and white pepper. Set aside.
- Step 4:
- 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.
- Step 5:
- Stir in garlic tomato paste thyme rosemary smoked paprika and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 6:
- 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.
- Step 7:
- Discard bay leaf. Stir in peas and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
- Step 8:
- Transfer lentil mixture to a 9x13-inch baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes evenly on top.
- Step 9:
- Use a fork to create ridges in the potatoes then bake for 20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden.
- Step 10:
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Save to Pinterest My family loves to gather around the table and enjoy this pie on chilly nights, sharing stories and laughter.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
Pairing
Pairs well with a robust red wine or a malty ale.
Allergen Information
Contains soy from soy sauce and dairy from butter and 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 to Pinterest This lentil shepherds pie is sure to become a comforting staple in your home.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What lentils work best for this dish?
Brown or green lentils hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture ideal for the filling.
- → Can I make this vegan?
Yes, using plant-based butter and milk substitutes keeps it vegan without losing creaminess in the topping.
- → How do I achieve a golden mashed potato topping?
Brush the mashed potatoes lightly with butter and bake until the surface turns golden and slightly crisp.
- → What herbs enhance the flavor?
Thyme and rosemary bring earthy, aromatic notes that complement the lentil and vegetable base.
- → Can I add extra vegetables?
Absolutely, mushrooms or additional root vegetables add umami and texture depth to the filling.