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 green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; Salt and pepper, to taste; 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped; 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk); 4 tablespoons butter (or margarine); Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Everyday Kitchen

I absolutely love making Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie for my family. It’s a wholesome, hearty meal that brings everyone together at the dinner table. The rich, savory filling made from lentils and vegetables is topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and it's just so comforting. I appreciate that it not only tastes fantastic but is also packed with nutrients. Plus, it's a great way to sneak in some veggies—perfect for everyone, including those who might be picky eaters.

Created by

Rhiannon Sutherland

Last updated on 2026-01-12T06:29:34.501Z

During a recent Sunday dinner, I wanted to make something that felt both special and nourishing. That’s when I decided to whip up this Lentil Shepherd’s Pie. The process of simmering lentils along with a medley of vegetables allowed all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a delicious base that reminded me of traditional shepherd's pie but with a plant-based twist.

One key tip I learned is to let the mashed potatoes cool slightly before spreading them on top of the filling. This helps them stay fluffy and create an enticing contrast with the warm, savory lentils underneath. It turned out to be a hit with my family, and I think it will be with yours too!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and comforting, perfect for chilly evenings
Packed with protein and fiber from lentils
A satisfying vegetarian twist on a classic dish

      

Understanding Lentils

Lentils are the star ingredient in this shepherd's pie, providing not just heartiness but also a significant nutritional boost. They are excellent sources of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins. For the best texture, ensure you are using either green or brown lentils, as both hold their shape well during the cooking process. If you decide to use red lentils instead, be aware they cook faster and tend to become mushy, which could alter the filling's texture.

When cooking lentils, be mindful of the water-to-lentil ratio. Using too much liquid can lead to a watery filling, so sticking with the 2 cups of vegetable broth should yield the perfect consistency. If you find that your lentils seem a bit dry after cooking, you can always add a splash of broth while mixing them with the sautéed vegetables to keep the filling moist and flavorful.

Perfecting the Mashed Potato Topping

The mashed potato topping is what makes this dish truly comforting. For an extra creamy texture, I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds, as they yield a fluffier consistency. When boiling, make sure the potatoes are cut into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Overcooking can result in a watery mash, so aim for a tender but firm texture.

For a flavor twist, consider adding roasted garlic or shredded cheese to your mashed potatoes. If you're aiming for a lighter version, swapping part of the butter for Greek yogurt can introduce creaminess with lower fat. Always mash the potatoes while they are still hot for easier mixing, and use a potato masher or a ricer to achieve that smooth finish.

Serving and Storing Suggestions

This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is perfect as a one-dish meal but can easily be complemented with a fresh green salad or steamed vegetables for a nice contrast. For leftovers, this pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it an ideal candidate for meal prep. Simply reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covered with foil to maintain moisture.

If you want to prepare this dish in advance, you can assemble the layers ahead of time and keep them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully. For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but unbaked pie. Cover it tightly with aluminum foil, and it should last for up to three months. When ready to cook, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking for the best results.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to prepare this delicious dish:

Filling

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Salt and pepper, to taste

Mashed Potato Topping

2 pounds potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk)
4 tablespoons butter (or margarine)
Salt and pepper, to taste

Make sure to have all the ingredients ready before you start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Lentil Shepherd’s Pie:

Cook the Lentils

In a pot, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 25 minutes until lentils are tender. Drain any excess liquid.

Sauté Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine Filling

Add the cooked lentils to the skillet with the sautéed vegetables. Mix in thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, then let it cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Prepare Mashed Potatoes

While the filling cooks, boil potatoes in a large pot until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). In a baking dish, spread the lentil mixture evenly, then top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes until the top is golden brown. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Now, enjoy your delicious Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or tomato paste to the lentil mixture.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your filling turns out too dry, it might be that the lentils absorbed all the liquid while cooking. Adding a bit more vegetable broth or even a splash of tomato sauce can rejuvenate the filling, keeping it moist without drowning it. Conversely, if the filling is too soupy, let it simmer uncovered for a few minutes to reduce the liquid until it thickens.

Another common issue could arise if your mashed potatoes become gummy. This can happen if they are over-mashed or if too much moisture is added. To fix gummy potatoes, try adding a bit of cream or melted butter to improve the texture, stirring gently to avoid further gumminess.

Variations and Add-Ins

Feel free to tailor the filling to your liking! Adding frozen peas or corn in the final cooking step adds a nice color and sweetness. You can also use different spices like cumin or chili powder to give it a unique flavor profile. For a more robust dish, consider incorporating cooked mushrooms, which provide an earthy taste that contrasts well with the lentils.

For those avoiding potatoes altogether, alternatives like cauliflower mash or sweet potato topping can work beautifully. Cauliflower should be steamed and pureed with a bit of cream for a similar texture with fewer carbs, while sweet potatoes bring a hint of sweetness that complements the savory filling nicely.

Scaling the Recipe

This recipe can easily be scaled for larger gatherings. To double the recipe, simply multiply all ingredients proportionately. The cooking times will largely remain the same, but make sure to use a larger baking dish to accommodate the increased quantity. If you don't have a dish big enough, consider cooking in two separate dishes.

When scaling down, you may also want to consider using individual ramekins for personal servings, which can create a delightful presentation. Just reduce baking time as individual portions will cook faster; check for doneness after 15 minutes in the oven.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the shepherd’s pie in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the lentil filling and mashed potatoes beforehand and assemble the pie just before baking.

→ How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

This recipe is naturally gluten-free; just ensure that your vegetable broth and any additional ingredients are gluten-free.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then freeze in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven when you're ready to enjoy again.

→ What can I serve with lentil shepherd’s pie?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables make great side dishes to complement the pie.