Go Back

Vegan Shepherd's Pie with Lentils

A comforting classic with a plant-based twist, filled with hearty lentils, flavorful veggies, and a rich, creamy top layer.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: British, Comfort Food
Calories: 320

Ingredients
  

For the Lentil Filling
  • 1 cup lentils (green or brown) Rinse before using
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas Add just before serving
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce (vegan)
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • to taste salt and pepper
For the Mashed Potatoes
  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup plant-based milk Or more, as needed for consistency
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil Excellent for adding richness

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Rinse the lentils under cold water. In a medium saucepan, add lentils and cover with water. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer for about 20-25 minutes, until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
  2. While the lentils are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
  3. To the vegetable mixture, add the drained lentils, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well and cook for about 10 minutes until everything is well combined and heated through. Add frozen peas just before removing from heat.
Mashed Potatoes
  1. Boil the peeled and diced potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return potatoes to the pot. Mash with plant-based milk and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assembly
  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, layer the lentil and vegetable mixture at the bottom. Top with the creamy mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly.
Baking
  1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden and crispy. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Customize your veggies and consider adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or freeze for 2-3 months.