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
I first made this dish on a chilly autumn evening and it quickly became a family favorite that we return to every season
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 the 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 aromatics:
- 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 Making this recipe became a treasured family activity especially during weekends when we all gather in the kitchen
Serving Suggestions
Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed green beans for a balanced meal
Pairing
Pairs well with a robust red wine or a malty ale to complement the earthy flavors of the lentils
Variations
Add chopped mushrooms for extra umami flavor or swap the lentils for mixed beans to suit your taste
Save 
This lentil shepherds pie is both comforting and nutritious making it a wonderful addition to your recipe collection
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 cooking and absorb flavors beautifully.
- → Can I prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
Yes, prepare and mash the potatoes in advance, then cover and keep warm before assembling the pie.
- → How can I add more umami depth to the filling?
Incorporate chopped mushrooms or a splash of soy sauce to enhance the savory flavor profile.
- → Is there a way to make this dish vegan-friendly?
Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives in the mashed potatoes and substitute tamari for soy sauce if desired.
- → What sides complement this hearty lentil pie?
Serve with a crisp green salad, steamed green beans, or roasted seasonal vegetables for a balanced meal.
- → How do I ensure the mashed potato topping gets golden?
Create ridges on the mashed potatoes for crisp edges, then bake uncovered until lightly browned on top.