Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Sunday Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup mushrooms, diced (optional); 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 2 teaspoons dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced; 1/2 cup milk or plant-based alternative; 1/4 cup butter or vegan substitute; Salt and pepper, to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Sunday Lentil Shepherd's Pie because it's a comforting dish that brings the whole family together. The blend of hearty lentils, veggies, and creamy mash creates a delicious meal that feels both indulgent and nutritious. As someone who enjoys plant-based recipes, I appreciate how lentils offer a meaty texture while being packed with protein. This recipe has become a staple in my home, particularly on chilly Sundays when everyone craves something warm and filling.

Created by

Lucy Price

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:13:11.163Z

Making this Sunday Lentil Shepherd's Pie has become a cherished tradition in our house. The lentils simmered with aromatics bring depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with fluffy mashed potatoes. The last time I made it, I added some diced mushrooms for an extra earthy flavor, and it took the dish to a whole new level.

I've discovered that letting the pie sit for a few minutes before serving helps the layers meld together beautifully. It's a simple tip, but it truly enhances the dish's overall texture and flavor. Plus, who doesn't love leftovers? This pie tastes even better the next day!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with protein-packed lentils
Comforting mashed potato topping with a crispy finish
A fantastic way to get your veggies in without compromising on flavor

      

Understanding Lentils in Your Shepherd’s Pie

Lentils are not just a meat substitute; they are the backbone of this dish, providing both texture and nourishment. Green or brown lentils work best for Shepherd’s Pie due to their ability to hold shape during cooking. When selecting lentils, look for ones that are firm and free of blemishes. This will ensure they cook evenly and contribute to a hearty filling. Soaking lentils isn't necessary, but rinsing them helps remove any dust or impurities before cooking.

When you combine the lentils with the vegetable broth, it’s crucial to monitor the simmering process. Too much heat can turn them mushy, while too little may leave them undercooked. Aim for a gentle simmer, which will allow the lentils to absorb the broth fully and develop robust flavors. After about 25 minutes, taste-test them to ensure they are tender but still slightly firm to the bite.

Perfecting the Mashed Potato Topping

The mashed potatoes provide a creamy counterbalance to the earthy lentils. For the best texture, use starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. These varieties yield fluffy yet rich mashed potatoes that won’t become gummy. After boiling the potatoes in salted water until tender, be sure to drain them fully and let them steam for a few minutes to release excess moisture; this results in a silkier mash.

When mashing, I recommend using a potato ricer or a hand masher for a velvety texture. Incorporate warm milk and melted butter gradually for a creamier consistency. Season generously with salt and a touch of pepper, tasting as you go, which elevates the overall flavor of the dish. A light touch is key, as over-mixing can lead to a dense topping.

Baking and Serving Suggestions

After assembling the pie, the baking process is essential not just for cooking through the filling but also for achieving that coveted golden top. Preheating the oven to 400°F (200°C) ensures that the dish cooks evenly from the start. Bake until the mashed potatoes are golden brown, usually about 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it towards the end; if the top is browning too quickly, cover it loosely with foil to prevent burning while the filling heats through.

For serving, consider garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a pop of color and fresh flavor. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking. Simply cover it with foil and bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cooking time. Alternatively, it freezes well—prepare, assemble, and freeze before baking, then cook from frozen, increasing the baking time accordingly.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a hearty and fulfilling dish!

For the Filling

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup mushrooms, diced (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes

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

Be sure to prepare these ingredients fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious Shepherd's Pie!

Prepare the Lentils

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

Make the Filling

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, and mushrooms (if using). Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in garlic, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix in cooked lentils and let simmer for 10 minutes.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

While the lentil mixture simmers, boil potatoes in salty water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until creamy.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lentil mixture evenly in a baking dish and top with the mashed potatoes. Use a fork to create texture on the top.

Bake

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

Serve warm and enjoy the comforting flavors!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the filling. You can also top the mashed potatoes with some grated cheese before baking for a richer taste.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to make this Shepherd's Pie gluten-free, you can substitute any all-purpose flour thickening agents with cornstarch or a downloadable gluten-free flour blend. For a vegan option, replacing butter with coconut oil or vegan butter works well, and using almond or oat milk instead of dairy milk will maintain the creamy consistency required for delicious mashed potatoes.

For added flavor and nutrition, consider incorporating other vegetables into the filling. Peas, corn, spinach, or bell peppers all make great additions and can easily be swapped out with the standard carrot or celery. The key is to keep the vegetable-to-lentil ratio balanced to avoid a watery filling.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your lentil filling turns out too thick, adding a splash more vegetable broth can help loosen the mixture while maintaining its flavor. On the other hand, if it’s too watery, letting it simmer uncovered for a few minutes will help the liquid evaporate and thicken the filling, creating a heartier base for your pie.

Overly dry mashed potatoes can be revived by adding more warm milk or a knob of butter. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a touch of liquid to prevent them from drying out. In this recipe, ensuring each component is correctly prepared will ultimately lead to a perfect pie!

Make-Ahead and Reheating Tips

Making this dish in advance is a lifesaver for busy weeks. You can prepare the entire pie, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate it for up to two days. When ready to bake, simply remove it from the refrigerator and let it come to room temperature before baking for even cooking.

For freezing, allow the pie to cool completely before wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap followed by foil to prevent freezer burn. It can be frozen for up to three months. When it’s time to enjoy it, you’ll want to bake it directly from frozen, adding time as necessary to ensure it’s heated through the center.

Questions About Recipes

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

Yes, you can substitute with cooked black beans or chickpeas, but the cooking time may vary.

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and mash a day in advance; just assemble and bake before serving.

→ Is this recipe vegan?

Yes, this recipe can be made vegan by using plant-based butter and milk alternatives.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 2 months.