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Cozy Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

sweet potato lentil shepherd’s pie - featured image
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A comforting and easy homemade shepherd’s pie featuring creamy sweet potato topping and savory lentil filling, perfect for cozy dinners and crowd-pleasing meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 3 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
  • 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup carrots, diced
  • 1 cup celery, diced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons butter or vegan butter
  • 1/4 cup milk or plant-based milk
  • Optional: handful of shredded cheddar or Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Place 1 cup of rinsed green lentils in a medium saucepan. Cover with 3 cups of water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20–25 minutes until tender but not mushy. Drain and set aside.
  2. While lentils cook, peel and chop 3 medium sweet potatoes into chunks. Boil in a large pot of water for about 15 minutes or until fork-tender. Drain well.
  3. Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add 1 chopped onion, 2 minced garlic cloves, 1 cup diced carrots, and 1 cup diced celery. Cook for 7–8 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  4. Stir in 2 tablespoons tomato paste, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, and 1 teaspoon dried thyme. Cook for 2 minutes to deepen flavors.
  5. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet, pour in 2 cups vegetable broth, and simmer for 10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
  6. Return the drained sweet potatoes to the pot. Add 2 tablespoons butter and 1/4 cup milk. Mash until creamy and smooth. Taste and add a pinch of salt.
  7. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the lentil filling evenly in a 9×9-inch baking dish. Dollop the mashed sweet potatoes on top, spreading gently to cover the filling. If desired, sprinkle with cheese for a golden crust.
  8. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the topping is slightly browned and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
  9. Let the shepherd’s pie cool for 5 minutes before serving to let the layers settle for easier slicing.

Notes

Rinse lentils thoroughly to remove debris. Do not overcook lentils to keep texture. Sauté vegetables slowly to build sweetness. Use a good masher or ricer for smooth sweet potatoes. Keep sweet potato topping thick to avoid drying out. Season as you go for best flavor. Can be made vegan by using plant-based butter and milk and skipping cheese or using vegan cheese. Freezes well for up to 2 months.

Nutrition

Keywords: sweet potato, lentil, shepherd’s pie, comfort food, vegetarian, vegan adaptable, gluten-free, easy dinner, cozy meal

Find it online: https://atomicbite.com/cozy-sweet-potato-lentil-shepherds-pie-recipe-easy-homemade-comfort-food/