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 recipe has become a family favorite during chilly evenings because it fills the home with a warm, inviting aroma and offers a healthy comfort food option.
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 Seasonings:
- 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 Texture:
- Use a fork to create ridges in the potatoes then bake for 20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden.
- Rest:
- Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Save This dish always brings the family together around the table, sharing stories and enjoying a wholesome meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a complete meal.
Wine Pairing
Pairs well with a robust red wine or a malty ale to complement the savory flavors.
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.
Save 
This shepherds pie is the perfect cozy meal that’s both nutritious and delicious.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → What type of lentils work best for this dish?
Brown or green lentils are ideal as they hold their shape well during simmering and absorb flavors nicely.
- → Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, substitute the butter and milk in the mashed potatoes with plant-based alternatives to keep it vegan-friendly.
- → How do I achieve a golden crust on the mashed potato topping?
Use a fork to create ridges on the mashed potatoes before baking; this helps promote browning and a slightly crispy texture.
- → What herbs enhance the filling’s flavor?
Thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika add aromatic depth and a mild smoky earthiness to the lentil filling.
- → Can additional vegetables be added?
Yes, chopped mushrooms or frozen peas add extra umami and sweetness, enriching the overall flavor profile.