Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h 5 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed; 2 tablespoons butter or vegan alternative; 1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Nourishing Comfort Meals

I absolutely adore this Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie! It's a comforting, hearty dish that truly satisfies my cravings. The combination of creamy sweet potatoes and savory lentils creates a perfect harmony of flavors. As a vegetarian option, it allows me to enjoy a classic comfort food without missing out on taste. Plus, it's packed with nutrients which makes me feel good about indulging. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish never fails to impress everyone at the table!

Created by

Sandra

Last updated on 2026-02-24T19:02:18.851Z

Making my Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie has become a beloved ritual in my kitchen. The first time I tried this recipe, I was surprised by how well the sweet potatoes paired with the earthy lentils. It’s a combination that works beautifully, enhancing both flavors and textures. I also discovered that using a mix of spices can elevate the pie significantly, bringing out the robust taste of the lentils.

One of my favorite tips is to ensure the sweet potatoes are mashed until silky smooth; this creates a delightful topping that contrasts perfectly with the hearty lentil filling. Each bite is a comforting experience, and I love sharing it with friends and family to showcase how delicious plant-based meals can be!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
A delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors
Nutrient-rich ingredients that keep you satisfied
A crowd-pleaser, even for non-vegetarians

Choosing and Preparing Lentils

For this Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie, using green or brown lentils is key as they hold their shape well during cooking, providing a nice texture in the filling. If you prefer a softer filling, red lentils can be used; however, they will become mushy and won't give the same structural integrity. Be sure to rinse the lentils thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and to prevent bitterness.

When sautéing the onion and garlic, aim for a translucent color—this typically takes about 3-5 minutes over medium heat. This step is crucial as it enhances the flavor base of the dish. Don't rush this process; the aromatic combination of onion and garlic creates a rich backdrop for the lentils and vegetables to shine.

Perfecting the Sweet Potato Topping

When boiling the sweet potatoes, ensure they are cut into evenly sized cubes, approximately 1 inch, to achieve uniform cooking. This helps them to become tender simultaneously. You’ll know they’re done when they’re easily pierced with a fork, which typically takes about 15-20 minutes.

For a creamy and velvety topping, mash the sweet potatoes with butter and milk (or a plant-based alternative) until smooth. An optional tip—if you prefer a hint of sweetness, add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg to the mix, complementing the natural flavors of the sweet potatoes. The fresh, vibrant hue of the topping should also create an inviting visual contrast against the lentil filling.

Assembly and Storage Tips

Assembling the pie is straightforward; just be sure to spread the lentil mix evenly in the baking dish, creating a solid base for the sweet potato topping. For an added touch, consider using a fork to create grooves or swirls on the top of the mash—this not only helps with browning but also adds a rustic appeal.

For making this dish ahead of time, you can prepare both the filling and topping separately, refrigerate, and assemble just before baking. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. If you'd like to freeze it, I recommend assembling it entirely, then covering well with foil or plastic wrap; it can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just bake it from frozen, adding an additional 10-15 minutes of baking time.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients before starting for a smoother cooking experience.

For the filling

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
2 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

For the topping

2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 tablespoons butter or vegan alternative
1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk
Salt to taste

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps closely for a delicious result.

Prepare the lentil filling

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent. Stir in carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes until lentils are tender.

Prepare the sweet potato topping

While the lentils are cooking, boil sweet potatoes in a separate pot until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain, then mash with butter, milk, and salt until smooth and creamy.

Assemble and bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lentil mixture in a baking dish and top with the sweet potato mash. Smooth out the top with a spatula. Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the top is slightly golden.

Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the filling with your choice of vegetables or add a sprinkle of cheese on top for extra richness.

Serving Suggestions

This Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a fantastic standalone dish, but pairing it with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables can elevate your meal. The salad's freshness contrasts nicely with the pie's richness. Try a light vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess.

For a comforting twist, serve each portion with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra layer of flavor. These additions brighten the dish and can make it feel even more indulgent while remaining within a healthy framework.

Possible Variations

Feel free to customize the filling by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or peas, which not only enhance the nutritional value but also introduce varied textures and flavors. If you’re looking for a protein boost, diced mushrooms can also be added, deepening the savory notes.

For a bit of heat, incorporate red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños into the lentil filling. This spiciness complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes beautifully and can make the dish unique to your taste preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the filling and topping and store them separately in the fridge for up to 2 days. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.

→ Is this shepherd’s pie freezable?

Absolutely. Once baked, allow it to cool completely and then freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and bake until heated through.

→ What can I substitute for lentils?

You can use brown or green lentils, or even chickpeas if preferred. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

→ Can I add more vegetables?

Definitely! Feel free to throw in some peas, corn, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor.