Easy Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings all the warmth of the classic recipe without any meat or dairy. Packed with protein-rich lentils, vibrant vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping, this plant-based version is both nutritious and satisfying. This dish is rich in flavor, fiber, and wholesome ingredients, perfect for cozy dinners, meal prepping, or serving to a crowd. Whether you’re vegan or just looking for a delicious meatless meal, this shepherd’s pie is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen!
Ingredients

For the Lentil Filling:
- 1 ½ cups cooked lentils (green or brown)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- ½ cup frozen peas
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 3 large potatoes, peeled and diced
- ¼ cup unsweetened plant-based milk (almond, oat, or soy)
- 2 tablespoons vegan butter
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Place diced potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes until tender.
- Drain and mash with plant-based milk, vegan butter, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add mushrooms, thyme, rosemary, and smoked paprika. Cook for another 3 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste and soy sauce, mixing well.
- Add cooked lentils and vegetable broth. Simmer for 10 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
- Stir in frozen peas, season with salt and pepper, and remove from heat.
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the lentil filling to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly with a spatula.
- Bake for 20 minutes until slightly golden on top. For extra crispiness, broil for the last 5 minutes.
- Serve
Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your cozy and nutritious Vegan Lentil Shepherd’s Pie!