Description
Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting, hearty dish that beautifully combines layers of seasoned lentils and vegetables with a creamy mashed potato topping. This plant-based delight is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a cozy gathering with friends. The savory gravy and rich flavors make it an irresistible choice for both vegetarians and meat-lovers alike. Plus, it’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies, making it a versatile addition to your recipe collection. Enjoy this wholesome meal that guarantees satisfaction in every bite!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
- 1 cup finely diced yellow onion (1/2 of 1 large onion)
- 1 cup diced carrot (3 carrots)
- 1 cup celery (4 stalks)
- 8 ounces mushrooms (thinly sliced; baby bella, brown, crimini)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic (3 cloves)
- 1 (15-ounce) can lentils (drained and rinsed)
- 2 bay leaves (divided)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup corn
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced or crushed tomatoes (undrained; fire-roasted recommended)
- 1–1/2 cups vegetable stock (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon red wine vinegar (optional)
- 2–1/2 pounds baby gold potatoes (peeled and cubed)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
- 1/2 cup sour cream (light or fat-free options available)
- 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Fresh parsley (or fresh thyme, optional, for topping)
Instructions
- Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cube the baby gold potatoes. Boil in salted water until fork-tender, then drain.
- Cook the Vegetables: In a large oven-safe pan, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil until soft. Add mushrooms and garlic, cooking until tender.
- Create the Gravy: Stir in lentils, spices, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, peas, corn, and vegetable stock. Simmer until thickened.
- Make Mashed Potatoes: Combine drained potatoes with heavy cream, sour cream, and butter until creamy.
- Assemble: Spread the mashed potatoes over the vegetable mixture evenly.
- Bake: Cook at 350°F for 25–30 minutes until golden brown on top.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/8 of the pie (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 54g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 30mg