Delicious Lentil Shepherd’s Pie Recipe for Everyone

With the aroma of savory lentils mingling with the earthy scent of vegetables and the creamy mash topping bubbling in the oven, you’re in for a treat with this Lentil Shepherd’s Pie. It’s a warm hug in a bowl that smells like home – and who doesn’t want that? Picture yourself cozied up on a chilly evening, diving into this hearty dish that somehow manages to be both comforting and energizing.

I remember the first time I attempted this recipe; my kitchen looked like an explosion of veggies and lentils. My friends were skeptical when I announced we were having “Lentil Shepherd’s Pie,” but their doubts vanished as soon as they took their first bite. The rich flavors danced on their taste buds as they praised my culinary prowess – or possibly just my ability to follow a recipe! This dish is perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in when all you need is something delicious to warm your soul.

I once served this dish at a dinner party, and it was a hit! Everyone went back for seconds.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Lentils: Use green or brown lentils for their firm texture; they hold up nicely in cooking.
• Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté until it’s translucent for maximum flavor.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness; chop them small so they cook evenly.
• Celery: Adds crunch and flavor; choose crisp stalks for the best results.
• Vegetable Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness; it enhances the dish without overpowering.
• Peeled Potatoes: Choose starchy potatoes like Russets; they mash beautifully for the topping.
• Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for sautéing; it adds richness without being too heavy.
• Dried Herbs (Thyme & Rosemary): These herbs infuse wonderful aroma and flavor; fresh herbs can also be used if available.
• Frozen Peas: They add color and sweetness; no need to thaw before adding them.
• Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings; adjust according to taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prep Your Veggies: Start by peeling and chopping your potatoes into even chunks. Dice your onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces because nobody wants an oversized veggie surprise!

Sautéing Time!: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onions first until they turn translucent – about 5 minutes – then toss in carrots and celery. Sauté until fragrant.

Add the Lentils and Broth: Stir in rinsed lentils along with vegetable broth. Bring everything to a boil before reducing heat to simmer. Let it bubble away while you prepare those potatoes.

Mash Those Potatoes!: Boil your potato chunks in salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain them well before mashing with olive oil, salt, and pepper until creamy.

Combine It All!: Once your lentils are tender (about 25-30 minutes), stir in frozen peas along with dried herbs. Transfer this mixture into a baking dish before spreading mashed potatoes on top.

Bake Until Golden!: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake your assembled shepherd’s pie for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Enjoy that delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen!

This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is not just a meal—it’s an experience you’ll want again and again! Dive into its layers of flavor tonight!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by cooking your lentils until tender, then sauté your vegetables. Combine everything in a baking dish, topping with fluffy mashed potatoes before baking until golden.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in different vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for variety. You can also spice things up with herbs such as thyme or rosemary.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover Lentil Shepherd’s Pie in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until heated through.

I remember the first time I made Lentil Shepherd’s Pie; my friends were skeptical about lentils but ended up asking for seconds!

FAQ

What can I substitute for lentils in Lentil Shepherd’s Pie?

You can use chickpeas or black beans as alternatives for a different flavor profile.

How do I make Lentil Shepherd’s Pie gluten-free?

Ensure that your vegetable broth and any toppings are certified gluten-free for safety.

Can I freeze Lentil Shepherd’s Pie?

Yes, it freezes well; just cover it tightly to prevent freezer burn before storing.

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Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

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Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish that combines savory lentils and colorful vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes for a satisfying meal that warms the soul.

• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

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• 1 cup green or brown lentils
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
• 3 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed (about 4 cups)
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (1 tbsp for sautéing, 1 tbsp for mashing)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Peel and chop the potatoes into even chunks; set aside.
3. Heat 1 tbsp of olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Then add carrots and celery; cook until fragrant.
4. Stir in rinsed lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer for about 25 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Meanwhile, boil the potato chunks in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes). Drain and mash with the remaining olive oil, salt, and pepper until creamy.
6. Once lentils are cooked, stir in frozen peas and dried herbs. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes.
7. Bake for about 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.

Notes

• Feel free to swap in different vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added flavor.
• To enhance the dish further, incorporate fresh herbs if available.

• Author: Sophie
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 50 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Vegetarian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 328
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 268mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 7g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 54g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 13g
• Cholesterol: 0mg