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Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie 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.

Ingredients

Scale

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