Pin this A comforting, plant-based twist on the classic shepherds pie, featuring hearty lentils and a creamy sweet potato mash topping.
I love how this recipe gets its comfort factor from sweet potato mash and is packed with lentils for a nourishing, flavor-packed meal. Our household enjoys the simplicity plus the healthy twist compared to classic versions.
Ingredients
- Sweet potatoes: 1.2 kg (2.5 lbs), peeled and cubed
- Olive oil or vegan butter: 2 tbsp
- Unsweetened non-dairy milk (or regular milk): 1/4 cup
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
- Olive oil: 2 tbsp
- Onion: 1 large, finely diced
- Carrots: 2, diced
- Celery stalks: 2, diced
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Cooked brown or green lentils: 2 cups (or 1 can, drained and rinsed)
- Frozen peas: 1 cup
- Vegetable broth: 1 cup
- Tomato paste: 2 tbsp
- Soy sauce or tamari: 1 tbsp
- Dried thyme: 1 tsp
- Dried rosemary: 1 tsp
- Smoked paprika: 1/2 tsp
- Salt and black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Preheat:
- Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).
- Cook sweet potatoes:
- Cook sweet potatoes in a large pot of boiling salted water until tender, 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
- Mash potatoes:
- Add olive oil (or vegan butter) and non-dairy milk to the sweet potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Sauté filling vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes until softened.
- Add garlic:
- Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Build lentil mixture:
- Stir in lentils, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, smoked paprika, soy sauce, and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened, stirring occasionally.
- Add peas:
- Add frozen peas, stir, and cook for 2 more minutes. Taste and season as needed.
- Assemble pie:
- Spread lentil mixture into a baking dish (about 9x13 inch). Top with sweet potato mash, spreading gently to cover.
- Finish topping:
- Use a fork to create ridges in the mash if desired. Drizzle olive oil for extra crispness.
- Bake:
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, until top is golden and filling bubbles.
- Rest:
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Pin this This shepherds pie is a true family favorite, especially on chilly evenings when we all crave something hearty yet wholesome. My kids love helping with the mash topping!
Notes
For extra richness, stir in grated cheese or vegan cheese to the mash before baking. You can swap sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or add mushrooms for a more savory taste.
Required Tools
Large pot, colander, potato masher, large skillet, baking dish, mixing spoon, knife and cutting board.
Allergen Information
Contains soy from soy sauce. Use tamari for gluten-free option and check labels for non-dairy milk and vegan butter allergies.
Pin this Serve hot and enjoy the comfort of every bite. Leftovers reheat beautifully and make easy weeknight dinners!
Frequently Asked Recipe Questions
- → Can I use other root vegetables instead of sweet potato?
Yes, regular potatoes, parsnips, or a mix can replace sweet potatoes for a different flavor and texture.
- → How can I ensure the lentil filling is flavorful?
Sautéing aromatics like onion, garlic, and vegetables with herbs and tomato paste enhances depth; simmer until thickened.
- → Is it possible to prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely, prepare the filling and mash separately, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Fresh green salad, steamed greens, or roasted vegetables complement the hearty filling and creamy topping.
- → Can I add cheese to the topping?
Yes, stirring grated cheese or vegan cheese into the mash before baking adds richness and flavor.