Save This dish combines tender lentils simmered with aromatic herbs and vegetables, crowned with silky mashed sweet potatoes. The harmonious blend of earthy lentils, smoky paprika, and fresh peas creates a filling meal. Baking gives the topping a slight golden crust, adding texture to each bite. It offers a balanced plate, ideal for those seeking a nourishing and satisfying plant-based main.
The first time I made this shepherds pie, my roommate walked in and immediately asked what smelled so incredible. I hadnt even told her I was experimenting with a vegan version of the classic comfort dish. The sweet potatoes were caramelizing in the oven while the lentil filling simmered with herbs, filling our tiny kitchen with the most amazing aroma.
I served this at a dinner party where half the guests were skeptical about plant-based comfort food. They all went back for seconds. Someone actually said they liked it better than traditional shepherds pie, which I honestly didnt expect.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: The natural sweetness creates the perfect contrast to the savory lentil filling, and they mash up creamier than regular potatoes
- Brown or green lentils: These hold their shape better than red lentils and give the filling that hearty texture youre looking for
- Smoked paprika: This is the secret ingredient that adds depth and almost a meaty quality without any meat
- Tomato paste: Concentrates the flavors and helps thicken the filling naturally
Instructions
- Prep your oven and sweet potatoes:
- Get your oven heating to 200°C (400°F) while you peel and cube those sweet potatoes, then boil them in salted water until theyre completely tender when pierced with a fork
- Mash until creamy:
- Drain the potatoes well and mash them with olive oil or vegan butter along with plant-based milk until smooth, then season generously and set aside
- Build the flavor base:
- Heat oil in a large skillet and cook onion, carrots, and celery until softened and fragrant, then add garlic for just a minute
- Simmer the filling:
- Add lentils, broth, tomatoes, tomato paste, and all those dried herbs, then bring everything to a bubble before covering and letting simmer until lentils are tender and the mixture has thickened nicely
- Finish and assemble:
- Stir in frozen peas and season the filling, then transfer it to your baking dish and spread that creamy sweet potato mixture evenly over the top
- Bake until golden:
- Drizzle with olive oil if you want extra crispiness, then bake until the top is lightly golden and let it rest for a few minutes before serving
Save My sister called me the next day after I shared this recipe with her, saying her whole family had loved it. Even her picky five-year-old who usually refuses anything with lentils ate two servings. Thats when I knew this recipe was special.
Making It Ahead
You can assemble the entire pie up to a day ahead and keep it refrigerated, covered. Just add about 10 minutes to the baking time if its cold from the fridge.
Freezing Instructions
This freezes beautifully. Wrap individual portions or the whole dish tightly and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
A crisp green salad with tangy vinaigrette cuts through the richness perfectly. Steamed broccoli or roasted green beans also work beautifully alongside.
- Add a splash of balsamic vinegar to the filling for extra depth
- Substitute regular potatoes if you prefer the classic version
- Double the recipe and freeze half for an easy weeknight dinner
Save Theres something so satisfying about digging into a bubbling hot shepherds pie on a chilly evening. This vegan version proves you dont need meat to make something truly comforting.
Recipe FAQs
- → What type of lentils work best?
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Brown or green lentils hold their shape well during cooking, providing a hearty texture ideal for this dish.
- → Can I use regular potatoes instead?
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Yes, substituting sweet potatoes with regular potatoes is an option, though the flavor and sweetness will differ.
- → How can I enhance the filling’s flavor?
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A splash of balsamic vinegar added to the filling before baking intensifies the savory notes.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead?
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Preparing the lentil filling and mashed topping in advance allows easier assembly and baking when needed.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
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A crisp green salad or steamed greens complement the rich lentil and sweet potato flavors nicely.
