Warm up with a slice of this comforting Mushroom-Sage Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, a delightful vegetarian twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie. Packed with earthy lentils and fragrant sage, this dish delivers a burst of flavor and a hearty texture that will satisfy any craving.
What sets this shepherd’s pie apart is the incorporation of mushrooms, adding depth and umami to the lentil filling. Topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it’s a meal the whole family will love, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
INGREDIENTS
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups mushrooms, chopped
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 teaspoons dried sage
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 2 tablespoons butter (or non-dairy alternative)
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a medium pot, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in the mushrooms and carrots, cooking until they soften, about 5-7 minutes. Add the cooked lentils, peas, sage, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well and remove from heat.
- In a large pot, boil the potatoes until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to pot.
- Add the milk and butter to the potatoes, mashing until creamy and smooth. Season with salt to taste.
- In a baking dish, layer the lentil mixture evenly, then top with mashed potatoes, smoothing out the surface.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty shepherd's pie!
Notes
Tip: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables into the filling or adjust the herbs to suit your taste.
For a creamier mash, consider adding a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream to your potatoes before whipping. If you’re looking for variations, try swapping out the lentils for chickpeas or black beans for a different flavor profile. This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep!
When reheating, add a touch of vegetable broth or water to keep the filling moist. Serve this pie with a simple green salad for a well-rounded meal.