Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Introduction

This Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting twist on a classic, packed with hearty vegetables and green lentils. It’s perfect for a satisfying, wholesome meal that’s both cozy and flavorful.

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• 1.5 cups cooked green lentils
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• 2 cups mashed potatoes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat olive oil in a pan and sauté chopped onions and minced garlic until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Step 2: Add diced mushrooms, carrots, and chopped celery to the pan. Cook until all vegetables are tender.
3. Step 3: Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, cooked lentils, and vegetable broth. Let the mixture simmer until it thickens slightly.
4. Step 4: Transfer the vegetable and lentil mixture into a baking dish. Evenly spread the mashed potatoes on top to cover the filling.
5. Step 5: Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 25 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping turns golden brown.

Tips & Variations

• For extra creaminess, stir some grated cheese into the mashed potatoes before spreading on top.
• Try adding peas or corn to the filling for added color and sweetness.
• Use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a different flavor and extra nutrients.

Storage

Store leftover shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, cover with foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes, or until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, you can use brown or red lentils, but green lentils hold their shape best for this recipe.

Is it necessary to cook the lentils before adding?

Yes, lentils should be fully cooked before adding to ensure the filling has the right texture and the lentils are soft.

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.5 from 115 reviews

This Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that replaces traditional meat with nutrient-rich green lentils and an array of fresh vegetables. Sautéed mushrooms, carrots, celery, and aromatic herbs create a flavorful base, topped with creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this recipe is both satisfying and wholesome.

• Author: Windy
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Vegetable Filling

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 cups mushrooms, diced
• 1 carrot, diced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• 1.5 cups cooked green lentils
• 1/2 cup vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Topping

• 2 cups mashed potatoes

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until they become soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes.
2. Cook Vegetables: Add diced mushrooms, carrot, and chopped celery to the skillet. Continue cooking for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add Flavor and Lentils: Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Mix in the cooked green lentils and vegetable broth. Reduce heat to low and simmer the mixture until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Assemble the Pie: Transfer the lentil and vegetable mixture into a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, covering the filling completely.
5. Bake to Finish: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled shepherd’s pie for 25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and heated through.

Notes

• You can prepare the lentils ahead of time or use canned lentils for convenience; just make sure to drain and rinse canned ones before use.
• For creamier mashed potatoes, add a little butter or cream as desired.
• Fresh herbs can be substituted with dried ones if preferred.
• This dish can be made vegan by ensuring mashed potatoes are prepared without dairy products.
• Leftovers keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.

Keywords: Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie, Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, Meatless Shepherd’s Pie, Comfort Food, Vegetarian Dinner