Shepherd's Pie with Lentils

Name: Shepherd's Pie with Lentils
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 cup frozen peas; 2 tbsp tomato paste; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tbsp olive oil; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed; 3 tbsp butter; 1/4 cup milk; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Shepherd's Pie with Lentils because it's not only hearty and delicious, but also packed with nutrients. The combination of lentils and vegetables creates a filling dish that the whole family enjoys. What I appreciate most is how easy it is to whip up — everything cooks in one pot before baking, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the mashed potatoes on top add a comforting touch. It’s a great way to enjoy a classic dish with a healthy twist that satisfies my cravings every time.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-02-09T15:58:27.364Z

When I first made Shepherd's Pie with Lentils, I was surprised by how well the lentils mimic the texture of meat while being so nutritious. I tried using a mix of spices to elevate the flavors, and it turned out fantastic. The secret is to sauté the vegetables before adding them to the lentils, which brings out their natural sweetness and depth.

Another tip I've found is to use a mix of golden and sweet potatoes for the topping. It adds a subtle sweetness and a creamy texture that perfectly complements the savory filling. Plus, this variation packs an extra punch of flavor without feeling heavy.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavor with a satisfying lentil filling
Comforting creamy mashed potato topping
Healthy and hearty, perfect for family dinners

The Importance of Lentils

Lentils are not only the star of this Shepherd's Pie but also a powerhouse of nutrition. They’re rich in protein, making them an excellent meat substitute, especially for vegetarians and vegans. Additionally, lentils are high in fiber, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling satisfied longer. When cooked, they provide a lovely texture that mimics traditional ground meat, making this dish feel hearty and filling.

Using green or brown lentils is ideal for this recipe as they hold their shape well during cooking. Avoid red lentils, which become mushy, as they won't provide the desired consistency for the filling. Rinsing the lentils thoroughly before cooking also helps remove any debris and enhances their flavor, ensuring a delicious outcome.

Perfecting Your Mashed Potatoes

To achieve creamy mashed potatoes, it's crucial to use the right kind of potatoes. Starchy varieties like Russet or Yukon Gold are fantastic for mashing because they create a fluffy texture when combined with milk and butter. Make sure to boil them until fork-tender, which usually takes about 15 minutes. Overcooking can lead to waterlogged potatoes, so keep an eye on the texture during the cooking process.

For added flavor, consider infusing your butter with garlic or herbs before mixing it into the mashed potatoes. This creates a more complex flavor profile that complements the savory lentil filling beautifully. If you want to lighten up the mash, substitute half of the butter with Greek yogurt or sour cream for a creamy tang without extra calories.

Assembling and Storing Your Pie

Assembling the dish is where you can get creative. Spread the lentil filling evenly in your baking dish before topping it with the mashed potatoes. Use a spatula to create peaks in the mashed potatoes, which will brown beautifully during baking. Baking at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes achieves the perfect golden color on top—check for slight bubbling at the edges as a sign that it’s ready.

This Shepherd's Pie can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to make it even further in advance, consider freezing it before baking. Just cover it tightly with foil and freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat, bake it from frozen at 400°F (200°C) for about 45 minutes, removing the foil for the last 15 minutes to achieve that golden top.

Ingredients

Filling

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 cup frozen peas
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tbsp olive oil

Topping

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1 sweet potato, peeled and cubed
3 tbsp butter
1/4 cup milk
Salt to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Potatoes

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and sweet potato. Cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic, cook for an additional minute.

Add Lentils and Spices

Add the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the lentils are cooked and most of the broth is absorbed. Stir in peas and season with salt and pepper.

Mash the Potatoes

While the filling simmers, mash the cooked potatoes and sweet potato with butter and milk until creamy. Season with salt to taste.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lentil filling in a baking dish, then top with the mashed potatoes. Smooth the top with a spatula. Bake for 20 minutes, until heated through and slightly golden on top.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, add Worcestershire sauce or a splash of red wine to the lentil filling. Experiment with different vegetables based on seasonality to keep this dish fresh and exciting.

Flavor Variations

Don't hesitate to add more vegetables to the filling for added nutrition and flavor. Mushrooms, bell peppers, or even spinach can enhance the dish's overall profile. Just make sure to sauté them well with the other vegetables to ensure they release excess moisture, which can prevent the filling from becoming soggy.

For a touch of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes at the end of the filling preparation. This gives the dish a nice, subtle kick without overpowering the rich flavors. If you enjoy a smokier flavor, a dash of smoked paprika can also add depth to the lentil mixture.

Serving Suggestions

Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils is wonderfully versatile in terms of sides. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, balancing the rich and hearty flavor of the pie. For something more filling, serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up the savory filling or a side of roasted vegetables to maintain a healthy balance.

If you're serving this dish at a gathering, consider offering a few toppings at the table. Chopped fresh parsley, grated cheese, or even a dollop of Greek yogurt can enhance the flavors and add a touch of freshness to each portion.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just mash the potatoes fresh before baking.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely! All of the ingredients used in this recipe are gluten-free.

→ What can I substitute for lentils?

You can use cooked chickpeas or black beans for a different flavor profile, but the cooking time may vary.

→ Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie with Lentils?

Yes! This dish freezes well. Just ensure it's completely cooled before transferring to a freezer-safe container.