There’s something comforting about a classic Shepherd’s Pie, but this version takes things up a notch with a uniquely delicious twist! Picture a hearty filling of lentils and vegetables, all topped with a creamy, slightly sweet potato-Parmesan crust. This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie with Sweet Potato-Parmesan Crust isn’t just a dish—it’s the ultimate cozy meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or feeding a hungry crowd. In my kitchen, this has become a staple, especially when the temperatures drop and we crave something warm and hearty.
Why you’ll love this dish
You might be wondering why you should try this recipe. For starters, it’s incredibly nutritious! Lentils are a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, making this dish a wholesome choice for family dinners. The sweet potato crust not only adds a delightful sweetness but also a beautiful color and a creamy texture that complements the savory filling.
Imagine coming home after a long day to an inviting aroma wafting from the oven. This Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is perfect for meal prep, too—it holds up beautifully in the fridge and can easily be reheated for quick lunches or dinners. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, turning simple ingredients into something spectacular.
"I never thought I could love lentils this much! The sweet potato topping is pure magic. It was a satisfying meal that my whole family enjoyed."
The cooking process explained
Making this delightful dish is both straightforward and satisfying. Start by cooking your lentils, then sauté a colorful mix of veggies. As the filling simmers away, prepare the sweet potatoes for mashing. This recipe combines flavors and textures beautifully, resulting in a comforting meal that promises to fill you up without emptying your wallet.
You’ll first combine the lentils and vegetables in a pot, letting them mingle and develop flavor. While that cooks, it’s sweet potato time—boil or steam those chunks until they’re fork-tender. Finally, all that’s left is to combine everything together in a baking dish and let the oven work its magic.
What you’ll need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this scrumptious Lentil Shepherd’s Pie:
- 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley or thyme (optional for garnish)
Feel free to swap green lentils with brown, and if you want a vegan version, just skip the Parmesan or use a plant-based alternative.
