Pin this A comforting, meatless twist on the classic shepherds pie, featuring a savory mushroom and lentil filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for cozy dinners on a budget.
This dish has been a favorite in our home for its rich flavors and satisfying texture that even meat lovers enjoy.
Ingredients
- Mashed Potato Topping: 1.5 kg (3.3 lbs) potatoes peeled and cut into chunks, 60 ml (1/4 cup) milk (dairy or plant-based), 45 g (3 tbsp) butter (or plant-based alternative), salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Mushroom and Lentil Filling: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 large onion finely chopped, 3 cloves garlic minced, 350 g (12 oz) mushrooms finely chopped, 2 medium carrots diced, 2 celery stalks diced, 1 tsp dried thyme, 1 tsp dried rosemary, 1/2 tsp smoked paprika, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 400 g (14 oz) canned brown or green lentils drained and rinsed, 250 ml (1 cup) vegetable broth, 2 tbsp soy sauce, 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce vegetarian if needed, salt and black pepper to taste, 80 g (1/2 cup) frozen peas
Instructions
- Preheat Oven:
- Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook Potatoes:
- Place potatoes in a large pot cover with salted water and bring to a boil Simmer for 15-20 minutes until fork-tender.
- Mash Potatoes:
- Drain the potatoes and mash with milk and butter Season with salt and pepper to taste Set aside.
- Cook Vegetables:
- While potatoes cook heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add onion and cook 3-4 minutes until translucent.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Stir in garlic mushrooms carrots and celery Sauté for 8-10 minutes until mushrooms have released their moisture and vegetables are soft.
- Add Spices:
- Add thyme rosemary smoked paprika and tomato paste Cook for 1 minute stirring.
- Add Lentils and Liquids:
- Add lentils vegetable broth soy sauce and Worcestershire sauce Simmer for 8-10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Finish Filling:
- Stir in frozen peas and season with salt and pepper Remove from heat.
- Assemble Pie:
- Spread the mushroom and lentil filling evenly in a baking dish (about 23x33 cm/9x13 in).
- Add Topping:
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top smoothing with a spatula Use a fork to create a decorative pattern if desired.
- Bake:
- Bake for 20 minutes or until the top is lightly golden For extra color broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Rest:
- Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Pin this This recipe always brings the family together around the dinner table with its warm flavors and comforting textures.
Notes
Add 1/2 cup shredded cheese to the mashed potatoes for a richer topping Swap sweet potatoes for a twist Pairs well with a crisp green salad and a glass of medium-bodied red wine.
Required Tools
Large pot Skillet Mixing bowls Potato masher Baking dish (9x13 in) Spatula
Allergen Information
Contains soy from soy sauce and possibly Worcestershire sauce Contains dairy if using traditional milk and butter Worcestershire sauce may contain fish use a vegetarian version if needed Always check ingredient labels for hidden allergens.
Pin this This shepherds pie recipe is easy to make and perfect for any night of the week.
Recipe Questions
- → Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, swapping sweet potatoes for the topping adds a subtle sweetness and vibrant color to the dish.
- → What is the best way to cook the lentils for the filling?
Using canned lentils, drained and rinsed, is convenient and works well for this dish, providing a tender texture without extra cooking time.
- → How can I add more flavor to the mashed potato topping?
Incorporate butter or plant-based alternatives with a touch of milk for creaminess; adding shredded cheese can also enhance richness.
- → Is this suitable for a vegetarian diet?
Absolutely, the filling uses plant-based ingredients and vegetarian Worcestershire sauce to keep it meat-free and flavorful.
- → Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Yes, assemble in advance and refrigerate before baking to save time on busy days; just extend baking slightly if chilled.