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Perfect Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie with Herb Gravy

Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie with Herb Gravy

Enjoy a comforting and flavorful Vegetarian Shepherd’s Pie topped with a delicious herb gravy. This meat-free version uses hearty lentils and vegetables for a satisfying meal, perfect for a cozy dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/2 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
  • 1/4 cup butter (or non-dairy alternative)
  • For the Herb Gravy:
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1.5 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • 1 teaspoon chopped fresh thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 8-10 minutes.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
  4. Stir in the rinsed lentils, 4 cups of vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until lentils are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Season with salt and pepper.
  5. While the lentils are simmering, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain well.
  6. Mash the potatoes with milk and butter until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
  7. Prepare the herb gravy: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute. Gradually whisk in 1.5 cups of vegetable broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. Stir in fresh parsley and thyme. Season with salt and pepper.
  8. Spread the lentil mixture evenly in the bottom of your skillet or a 9×13 inch baking dish.
  9. Pour the herb gravy over the lentil mixture.
  10. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly to cover the filling. You can create decorative swirls with a fork if desired.
  11. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  12. Let stand for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • You can add other vegetables like peas or corn to the lentil filling for extra flavor and texture.
  • For a richer mashed potato topping, use heavy cream instead of milk.
  • Ensure your vegetable broth is low sodium if you are watching your salt intake.

Nutrition