Save A comforting, plant-based twist on the classic shepherds pie, featuring hearty lentils and a creamy sweet potato mash topping.
Vegetarian shepherds pie has become a weeknight staple in my kitchen. Even meat-lovers enjoy the savory lentil filling and creamy sweet potato topping, making it a reliable favorite for family dinners.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: 1.2 kg (2.5 lbs), peeled and cubed
- Olive oil or vegan butter: 2 tbsp, divided use
- Unsweetened non-dairy milk (or regular milk): 1/4 cup
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: To taste
- Onion: 1 large, finely diced
- Carrots: 2, diced
- Celery stalks: 2, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Cooked brown or green lentils (or 1 can, drained and rinsed): 2 cups
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Vegetable broth: 1 cup
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tbsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Dried rosemary: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
Instructions
- Cook Sweet Potatoes:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F). Cook sweet potatoes in boiling salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
- Mash Sweet Potatoes:
- Add olive oil or vegan butter and non-dairy milk to sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Prepare Filling:
- Heat olive oil in skillet over medium. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook 1 minute.
- Build Flavor:
- Stir in lentils, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, stirring, until thickened.
- Finish Filling:
- Add peas, stir, and cook for 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble Pie:
- Spread lentil mixture in a baking dish (about 9x13 inch). Top with sweet potato mash and spread gently. Use fork to create ridges and drizzle with olive oil if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake 15-20 minutes until top is golden and filling is bubbling. Let rest before serving.
Save I still remember how quickly my kids polished off this pie the first time I made it. Now it is a regular request at our family gatherings.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, potato masher, large skillet, baking dish, mixing spoon, knife and cutting board
Allergen Information
Contains soy (from soy sauce); use tamari for gluten-free. Check non-dairy milk and butter labels for allergens. Gluten-free if using tamari and gluten-free broth.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
Calories: 390, Total Fat: 8 g, Carbohydrates: 68 g, Protein: 12 g
Save This veggie shepherds pie proves you do not need meat to create true comfort food. Serve warm and enjoy every nourishing bite.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes?
Yes, regular potatoes can be substituted for sweet potatoes in the mash to give a more traditional flavor and texture.
- → What type of lentils work best for the filling?
Brown or green lentils hold their shape well and provide a hearty texture ideal for the filling.
- → How can I add extra richness to the mash?
Stirring in grated cheese or a vegan alternative before baking enhances creaminess and flavor.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, using tamari instead of soy sauce and verifying gluten-free broth makes the dish gluten-free.
- → Can I prepare this in advance?
The lentil filling and sweet potato mash can be prepared ahead, then assembled and baked just before serving.