Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk or plant-based alternative; 4 tablespoons butter or vegan butter; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Classic Meals

I love cooking on Sundays, and this Lentil Shepherd’s Pie has become a weekend staple for my family. It's a comforting dish that warms me from the inside out, combining hearty lentils, fresh vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. I find that the slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a satisfying blend that's both nutritious and delicious. This recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it's easy to make in large batches and even better as leftovers.

Created by

Opal Kensington

Last updated on 2026-01-12T03:13:34.531Z

When I first made this Sunday Lentil Shepherd's Pie, I was blown away by how comforting it felt, yet it was completely plant-based. The combination of lentils and veggies creates a rich and hearty filling that reminds me of traditional meat-based versions I grew up with. I learned that using a mix of spices really elevates the dish and enhances the natural flavors of the ingredients.

One of the best tips I can share is to let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the layers to settle and makes for cleaner slices. Plus, the leftovers taste even better the next day, making it a perfect make-ahead meal for busy weeks!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, savory flavors that satisfy every appetite
Healthy, plant-based ingredients packed with nutrition
Perfect for feeding a crowd or enjoying throughout the week

The Importance of Flavorful Filling

The lentil filling is truly the heart of this Shepherd's Pie. Using a mix of onions, carrots, and celery not only boosts the nutritional profile but also adds depth to the flavor. The aromatic properties of garlic, combined with the earthy notes from the lentils, create a robust base. Simmering this mixture for 30 minutes allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. If you want to enhance the flavor even further, consider sautéing the vegetables in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the pot.

Using vegetable broth instead of water is crucial as it infuses the lentils with additional savory notes. If you're looking for a bolder twist, try adding a splash of red wine during simmering to deepen the taste. Additionally, experimenting with different herbs can elevate the dish; for a Mediterranean flair, basil or oregano works wonderfully. Keep in mind, though, that fresh herbs should be added towards the end to retain their flavor.

Mastering the Mashed Potato Topping

Achieving a smooth, creamy mashed potato topping is key to a perfect Shepherd’s Pie. Boiling the potatoes until fork-tender is essential; undercooked potatoes will lead to a lumpy consistency. Drain them well and return them to the pot to dry off slightly before mashing—this ensures a creamier texture. For the best results, I prefer using a potato ricer, as it creates an incredibly smooth texture without lumps.

When incorporating milk and butter, warm them slightly before mixing to help the potatoes maintain their heat and creaminess. If you're looking to lighten the dish, consider substituting half the butter with Greek yogurt, which adds a lovely tang. Don’t forget to season the mashed potatoes generously; a pinch of nutmeg can also add a delightful twist that complements the lentils beautifully.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Lentil Shepherd's Pie is ideal for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. To store, let the pie cool completely before covering it with plastic wrap or foil. For longer storage, you can freeze it for up to three months. When reheating, cover with foil to prevent drying out and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 20-30 minutes until heated through, or until the top is golden and bubbling. You can also reheat individual portions in a microwave for a quick meal.

When it comes to serving, I love to pair this dish with a simple side salad or steamed greens, which enhances the overall nutritional benefits. To add even more flavor, consider serving it with a dollop of your favorite vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs. For a heartier meal, serve with homemade whole grain bread on the side to soak up the delicious lentil filling.

Ingredients

For the Filling

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

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk or plant-based alternative
4 tablespoons butter or vegan butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Lentils

In a large pot, combine the lentils, diced onion, carrots, celery, garlic, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until lentils are tender. Season with salt and pepper.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the lentil filling simmers, boil the cubed potatoes in salted water until soft. Drain and return to the pot. Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until smooth.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the lentil filling evenly in a baking dish and top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them over the lentils. Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the surface.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the top is slightly golden.

Serve

Let the Shepherd's Pie rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve warm and enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a creamier mash, try adding sour cream or cream cheese to the potatoes. You can also include peas or corn in the lentil filling for added sweetness and texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to tailor the recipe to suit dietary needs, there are plenty of substitutions available. For a gluten-free version, ensure that your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free, and consider using brown rice or quinoa instead of lentils for a different texture and flavor. You could also swap out the potatoes for cauliflower for a lower-carb option; steaming it and then mashing will give you a surprisingly creamy topping.

For an extra protein kick, you can mix in some cooked mushrooms or lentils with quinoa as they provide umami flavors and a meaty texture. If you’re in a hurry, canned lentils can be a quick substitute; just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as they will require much less time to incorporate into the filling.

Troubleshooting Tips

While this dish is generally straightforward, you may encounter a few issues. If your lentils are too firm after simmering, it could be due to a few factors: double-check the cooking time, make sure you're not using old lentils, and ensure they are fully submerged in the broth. You can always add a little more broth if needed while they cook for even absorption.

If your mashed potatoes turn out gummy, this is often the result of over-mashing. To avoid this, mash them just until combined and no lumps remain. If you find the topping too dry after baking, a splash of vegetable broth can help revive it. I recommend adding a generous sprinkle of fresh herbs on top just before serving to bring the dish back to life visually and flavor-wise.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes a day in advance. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use certified gluten-free vegetable broth, this recipe is gluten-free.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables such as peas, corn, or bell peppers for additional flavor and nutrition.

→ Can I freeze leftovers?

Absolutely! This Shepherd's Pie freezes well. Just ensure it's in an airtight container and reheat thoroughly before serving.