introduction
This Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils and Herb Mashed Topping Recipe is warm, simple, and filling. It uses cooked lentils for a hearty filling and sweet potato mash for a soft top. If you like different mashed toppings, try the idea from mashed potatoes with Boursin for a richer twist.
why make this recipe
Make this pie when you want a healthy, low-cost meal that feeds many. It uses pantry items and vegetable broth for flavor, and it is easy to change. After dinner, a simple sweet treat like air fryer apple hand pies goes well with it.
how to make Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils and Herb Mashed Topping Recipe
Cook the vegetables until soft, mix with cooked lentils and broth, and let them simmer. Boil and mash the sweet potatoes with butter and milk until they are smooth. Spread the lentil mix in a dish, cover with the sweet potato mash, and bake until the top is golden. For a meat version, you can pair or swap with a roast like baked chicken, potatoes, and green beans.
Ingredients :
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/4 cup milk
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 cup cooked lentils
- 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Directions :
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Boil them in water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy., Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and translucent, about 10 minutes., Stir the cooked lentils and vegetable broth into the sautéed vegetables. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer gently for 10 minutes to combine the flavors and reduce any excess liquid., Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lentil and vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish. Carefully spoon and spread the mashed sweet potatoes over the filling to cover it completely., Place the assembled dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, or until the sweet potato topping is golden brown and slightly crispy on top.
how to serve Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils and Herb Mashed Topping Recipe
Let the pie rest 5 to 10 minutes after baking. Serve hot in bowls or cut into squares on plates. Add a green salad or roasted vegetables on the side. For a crunchy side, try serving with cheesy smashed potato bites to give guests another texture.
how to store Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils and Herb Mashed Topping Recipe
Cool the pie completely before storing. Cover the baking dish or move portions to airtight containers. Keep in the fridge for up to 4 days. To freeze, wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven until hot.
tips to make Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie with Lentils and Herb Mashed Topping Recipe
- Taste and adjust salt and pepper after the filling simmers.
- If the filling is too thin, simmer a few more minutes to reduce liquid.
- For creamier mash, add a little more milk or butter while mashing. For topping ideas, see creamy cheesy mashed potato skins.
- Use firm, not mushy, sweet potatoes so the top holds shape when sliced.
variation (if any)
- Add frozen peas or corn to the lentil mix for color and texture.
- Stir in a splash of balsamic vinegar or soy sauce for deeper flavor.
- Swap rosemary and thyme for sage and oregano if you like a different herb mix.
FAQs
Q: Can I use canned lentils?
A: Yes. Rinse and drain them well, then add to the vegetables and heat through.
Q: Can I make this gluten-free?
A: Yes. The recipe is naturally gluten-free if your broth has no gluten ingredients.
Q: How do I get a crisp top?
A: Bake uncovered and let the top brown for the last 10 minutes. You can also run the broiler for 1-2 minutes but watch closely.
Q: Can I prepare it ahead?
A: Yes. Make the filling and mash separately, store in the fridge, then assemble and bake before serving.
Q: Can I add cheese to the topping?
A: Yes. Mix a little grated cheese into the mash or sprinkle on top before baking.
Conclusion
For another similar take on lentil shepherd’s pie with sweet potato mash, see Lentil Shepherd’s Pie with Sweet Potato Mash – Cupful of Kale.
Sweet Potato Shepherd's Pie with Lentils and Herb Mashed Topping
Ingredients
Method
- Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Boil them in water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter and milk until smooth.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 10 minutes.
- Stir the cooked lentils and vegetable broth into the sautéed vegetables. Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lentil and vegetable mixture in a baking dish. Spread the mashed sweet potatoes over the mixture.
- Bake uncovered for 35-45 minutes, until the sweet potato topping is golden brown.
- Let the pie rest for 5 to 10 minutes. Serve hot in bowls or cut into squares on plates. Pair with a green salad or roasted vegetables.