Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 3 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup milk; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Simple Recipes

I love making Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie as a hearty and comforting dish that not only satisfies my cravings but also brings back fond memories of family gatherings. The rich, savory filling paired with a creamy mashed potato topping creates a wonderful blend of textures and flavors. It’s a plant-based twist on the classic shepherd’s pie that I enjoy preparing for special occasions or cozy dinners at home. Plus, it offers a great way to boost my vegetable intake while enjoying a warm meal.

Created by

Wendy Ashbourne

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:45:37.200Z

When I first decided to make a vegetarian version of shepherd’s pie, I knew that lentils would be the star ingredient. They not only provide an earthy flavor but also mimic the texture of ground meat beautifully. After experimenting with various spices and vegetables, I found the perfect balance that makes every bite a comforting hug.

One essential tip I've learned is to let the filling cook slowly to develop deeper flavors. I like to sauté the carrots and onions until caramelized, which adds a delicious sweetness. Topping it off with perfectly whipped potatoes creates a creamy finish that everyone will love!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Earthy lentils packed with protein and fiber
Creamy mashed potatoes that complement the savory filling
Perfect for meal prep or as a family-friendly dinner

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie lies in the use of green or brown lentils. They not only provide a hearty texture but are also rich in protein and fiber, making this dish not just comforting but also nutritious. Rinsing the lentils before use helps remove any debris and ensures they cook evenly, absorbing the flavors beautifully during the simmering process.

Using fresh vegetables like onions and carrots adds both sweetness and depth to the filling. The onions should be cooked until they are translucent, as this will lend a nice base flavor to the dish. Carrots add a slight crunch and a natural sweetness, balancing out the earthy notes of the lentils. To enhance the flavor, always use good quality vegetable broth; it helps infuse the dish with a savory richness.

Perfecting Your Mashed Potatoes

The creamy mashed potato topping is what elevates this shepherd’s pie. For the best texture, opt for starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they create a fluffier mash. When boiling the potatoes, make sure to cut them into even pieces to ensure uniform cooking. They should be fork-tender, which typically takes about 15 minutes of boiling in salted water; you'll know they’re done when a fork easily pierces through.

To achieve the perfect creamy consistency, mash the potatoes while they’re hot, and add warm milk and softened butter. This prevents the potatoes from becoming gluey. You can also try substituting some of the milk with plant-based alternatives if you’re aiming for a dairy-free version without sacrificing creaminess—coconut milk can give a delightful hint of sweetness.

Serving and Storing Tips

After baking, let the pie rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set slightly, making it easier to serve and helping prevent a runny filling. I recommend garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra touch of flavor and freshness. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed green vegetables for a balanced meal.

If you have leftovers, this shepherd’s pie stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, I suggest portioning it into airtight containers and freezing before it’s baked. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 400°F (200°C) until heated through and golden on top. This makes it a perfect meal prep option for busy weeks ahead.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
3 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup milk
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Lentil Filling

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the tomato paste, lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 25-30 minutes, until lentils are tender. If necessary, adjust seasoning.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the lentils are cooking, boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper, and mash until creamy.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Once the lentil filling is ready, transfer it to a baking dish and spread the mashed potatoes on top. Use a fork to fluff the potatoes for a crispy top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until golden and bubbly.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in cooked mushrooms or peas into the lentil filling. You can also add a sprinkle of cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking for a deliciously cheesy crust.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your lentils take longer to cook than expected, check the heat level. If it's too low, the lentils won't soften properly. A simmer should be gentle, yet steady; adjust as needed while keeping the lid on to retain moisture. If the mixture becomes too thick, feel free to add a splash more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

For a slightly different flavor profile, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of Worcestershire sauce to the lentil filling just before completing the simmering step. This small addition can deepen the umami taste and round out the overall flavor.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with the vegetables in the filling; adding peas or mushrooms not only enhances flavor but also adds interesting textures. If you're in the mood for a spicy kick, try incorporating diced fresh chili or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper to the filling. The options are endless, and this recipe is very flexible for personal preferences.

For those avoiding potatoes, a scrumptious topping made from cauliflower puree is a delicious alternative. Steam cauliflower florets until soft, then blend with a bit of olive oil and seasoning until smooth. Spread this cauliflower topping over the filling in the same way you would with the mashed potatoes for a lower-carb option.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe is easy to scale for gatherings. If you're serving a larger crowd, simply double the ingredients for both the filling and the mashed potatoes. Be mindful of the baking dish size; two 9x13 inch dishes will work well for a doubled recipe. You may need to bake for a slightly longer time to get both pies golden and bubbly.

When halving the recipe, consider how you will store leftovers, as it can be difficult to make small portions. If it’s just for one or two, you could prepare the full batch and freeze individual portions, which makes for convenient meals in the future.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes in advance. Just store them separately in the fridge and assemble before baking.

→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Absolutely! Just ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free, and you're good to go.

→ What can I serve with shepherd’s pie?

This dish is hearty enough on its own, but you can pair it with a side salad for added freshness.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Yes, it freezes well. Just let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.