Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/4 cup milk (or plant-based alternative); 2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter); 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Modern Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely love making this Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie! It’s the perfect cozy dish for a weekend meal. Loaded with nutritious lentils and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s both hearty and comforting. Every bite is filled with depth of flavor thanks to the mix of herbs and vegetables, making it a great way to enjoy a plant-based meal. Even my meat-loving friends rave about this dish! If you try this recipe, it will surely become a family favorite.

Created by

Bryony Wells

Last updated on 2026-01-12T01:34:35.766Z

When I first decided to make this Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, I wanted to create a dish that was both comforting and healthy. After experimenting with various vegetables and spices, I found that adding a splash of soy sauce and thyme really enhanced the flavor of the lentils. The depth of taste surprised me, and I could hardly believe how satisfying it was without any meat.

The mashed potatoes topping is another element where I've found success. Using a mix of Yukon gold and red potatoes gives a delightful creaminess. Be sure to add a bit of garlic to the mash; it elevates the dish to a new level. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and filling without any meat
Rich flavors from the well-seasoned lentils
Creamy mashed potato topping that's simply irresistible

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are not only protein-packed but also provide a unique texture that mimics traditional meat fillings. In this Shepherd’s Pie, using green or brown lentils is essential, as they hold their shape better during cooking compared to red lentils. Ensuring that they are rinsed helps remove any potential debris and decreases cooking time. They should be cooked just until tender without becoming mushy, which typically takes about 20 minutes of simmering.

The seasoning plays a significant role in your lentil mixture. The blend of soy sauce and dried thyme infuses the lentils with a savory depth that mimics the taste of traditional Shepherd's Pie. If you prefer a different flavor profile, consider adding fresh herbs like rosemary or substituting balsamic vinegar for soy sauce for a slightly sweeter taste.

Perfecting Mashed Potatoes

The key to creamy mashed potatoes lies in the method of cooking and mashing. For this recipe, boiling the diced potatoes ensures they cook evenly. Be sure to check for doneness by piercing with a fork; they should be soft but not falling apart. To achieve the perfect creamy texture, I always use a potato masher or a ricer instead of a blender, which can lead to a gummy consistency.

Using garlic in the mashed potatoes not only enhances flavor but also complements the savory lentil filling. If you prefer a lighter option, swapping the butter for olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative will keep the dish healthy and delicious. Feel free to adjust the milk quantity for your desired creaminess, whether you prefer it smooth or slightly chunky.

Storage and Serving Ideas

This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. For longer storage, it freezes beautifully. Just assemble and freeze before baking, then when you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and bake straight from there. This convenience makes it a fantastic option for busy weeknights or impromptu gatherings.

When serving this dish, consider pairing it with a crisp salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. A drizzle of balsamic reduction can also elevate the flavors further. For an extra kick, try adding some red pepper flakes to the lentil filling to give it a spicy twist that will delight those who enjoy a bit more heat.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your delicious Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie:

Filling

1 cup lentils (green or brown), rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste

Mashed Potatoes

4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1/4 cup milk (or plant-based alternative)
2 tablespoons butter (or vegan butter)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt to taste

Now that you have everything you need, it's time to get cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps for a great Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie:

Prepare the Lentil Filling

In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until they are soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute before adding the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, soy sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the lentils are cooking, place the diced potatoes in a separate pot and cover them with water. Bring to a boil and cook until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, garlic, and salt, then mash until smooth and creamy.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the lentil mixture in an even layer in a baking dish. Top it with the mashed potatoes, smoothing it out with a spatula. Use a fork to create some texture on the top. Bake for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and slightly crispy.

Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider mixing in some frozen peas or corn into the lentil filling. It adds a nice sweetness and color to the dish!

Preventing Common Mistakes

One common issue with lentil dishes is overcooking the lentils, resulting in a mushy texture. Make sure to keep an eye on them; they should be tender yet still retain some bite. If you find that your lentils are overcooked, you can try mashing them slightly to incorporate with the filling, which can help blend their texture without compromising the dish's integrity.

Another potential pitfall is uneven topping. As you spread the mashed potatoes over the lentil filling, ensure they are evenly distributed. I recommend taking a spatula and smoothing it out, then using a fork to create peaks and valleys. This will allow for even browning in the oven and provide a delightful texture contrast with the creamy potatoes.

Accentuating Flavors

To take your dish to the next level, consider adding a splash of red wine to the lentil mixture while it simmers. This addition deepens the flavor profile and complements the earthy tones of the lentils and vegetables. If you prefer a purely alcohol-free version, you can substitute the wine with an extra splash of vegetable broth or even some apple cider vinegar for a hint of acidity.

Additionally, experimenting with different root vegetables can give this dish a unique twist. Try adding parsnips or sweet potatoes to the mashed potato topping for an unexpected sweetness. Roasting these vegetables with a pinch of salt beforehand can enhance their natural flavors and add an extra layer of complexity to your Shepherd’s Pie.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this Shepherd's Pie in advance?

Absolutely! It can be made a day ahead and stored in the refrigerator. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.

→ Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Just ensure that your soy sauce is gluten-free, or use tamari as a substitute.

→ What can I use instead of potatoes for a lower-carb version?

You can substitute mashed cauliflower or sweet potatoes for a different flavor and lower-carb option.

→ Can I add cheese to the mashed potatoes?

Yes! Mixing in some shredded cheese or nutritional yeast can add a delicious creaminess and extra flavor.