Savory Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Savory Vegan 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); 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk; 2 tablespoons vegan butter; Salt and pepper to taste; Smoked paprika for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Comfort Meal Recipes

I love preparing this savory vegan shepherd's pie, especially on chilly evenings when comfort food is a must. The rich, hearty filling made from lentils and vegetables is so satisfying, while the creamy mashed potatoes on top make it feel indulgent. I’ve experimented with various spices and vegetables, and I’ve found a perfect mix that elevates this classic dish into something truly remarkable. It’s easy to prepare and makes for excellent leftovers, too!

Created by

Luca

Last updated on 2026-02-01T22:33:09.400Z

Creating this shepherd's pie became a delightful challenge for me. I wanted to veganize the classic recipe while maintaining depth of flavor, and I found that combining lentils with finely chopped vegetables was the key. Not only does it mimic the texture of traditional meat, but it also absorbs the seasonings beautifully.

When I bake it, I love to top off the mashed potatoes with a sprinkle of smoked paprika. This adds an unexpected layer of flavor that surprises everyone who tries it. It's those little touches that make a difference in this dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
Hearty and fulfilling with plant-based ingredients
Layers of flavor that everyone will enjoy
A warm hug in a dish!

The Importance of Lentils

Lentils are the star of this savory shepherd's pie, not only providing a hearty base but also a wealth of nutrition. Rich in protein and fiber, they help keep you feeling full for longer, making this dish satisfying and wholesome. When cooking, ensure they achieve a tender texture but avoid overcooking; they should retain a slight bite to contribute to the filling's overall mouthfeel.

For variations, you can swap green or brown lentils with black lentils, which offer a firmer texture and hold their shape well. If you're in a rush, canned lentils can also be a quick substitute; just rinse and drain them before adding to the sautéed vegetables for a speedy filling in about half the time.

Perfecting the Mashed Potatoes

The mashed potatoes create a creamy topping that beautifully contrasts the seasoned lentil filling underneath. To achieve the perfect consistency, mash the potatoes while they're still hot; this helps achieve a fluffier texture. Using a potato ricer can give you an especially light and airy mash if you're after a restaurant-quality finish.

If you need to make this dish oil-free, consider replacing vegan butter with a splash of extra plant milk or a nutty-flavored oil. For flavor enhancement, try adding roasted garlic or nutritional yeast to the mash. These ingredients not only keep the dish rich-tasting but also add depth without compromising its vegan appeal.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/4 cup unsweetened plant milk
2 tablespoons vegan butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Smoked paprika for garnish (optional)

Ensure you have all the ingredients ready before starting to streamline your cooking process.

Instructions

Prepare the Lentil Filling

In a saucepan, combine lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes until tender. Drain any excess liquid if necessary.

Cook the Vegetables

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Combine and Season

Stir in the cooked lentils, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper in the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the filling is cooking, boil the potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain, then mash with plant milk, vegan butter, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, layer the lentil mixture, then top with mashed potatoes. Smooth it out with a spatula and sprinkle with smoked paprika if desired. Bake for 25 minutes until the top is slightly golden.

Let the pie sit for a few minutes before serving to help it set up nicely.

Pro Tips

Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand. Peas, corn, or even mushrooms can add a delightful twist to the flavors.

Storing and Reheating

This shepherd's pie is ideal for meal prep! Once fully assembled, it can be covered and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you've got a batch of leftovers that you want to save, simply portion them into airtight containers, ensuring to cool the pie down to room temperature first to prevent sogginess.

For reheating, you can pop individual servings in the microwave for about 2-3 minutes or reheat a whole pie in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 20-25 minutes until heated through. Cover it with foil if the top begins to brown too much during reheating.

Serving Suggestions

This savory vegan shepherd’s pie pairs exceptionally well with a fresh side salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette, which balances the richness of the dish. You can also serve it with steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts for a wholesome meal.

For a fun twist, consider adding a layer of sautéed mushrooms or spinach to the lentil filling. Not only will this boost the nutritional profile, but it also introduces more texture and earthy flavors that complement the spices beautifully.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes in advance and assemble them when ready to bake.

→ Is this shepherd's pie gluten-free?

It is gluten-free if you ensure that the vegetable broth and any other ingredients are labeled gluten-free.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.

→ Can I use other types of beans instead of lentils?

Yes, you can substitute lentils with black beans or chickpeas, but keep in mind the texture will differ slightly.