Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

Name: Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup lentils (green or brown); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon thyme; 1 teaspoon rosemary; 1 cup vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped; 2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative); 2 tablespoons butter (or dairy-free alternative); 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Balanced Meal Recipes

I love making Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie because it combines comfort food with nutritious ingredients. The creamy, slightly sweet topping of sweet potatoes perfectly balances the savory, hearty lentil filling underneath. I find it comforting, especially on chilly nights, and my family always enjoys it. It’s a wonderful wholesome dish that's not only satisfying but also packed with flavors. Whether for a cozy dinner or meal prep, this recipe has become a favorite in our home.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-24T19:02:19.186Z

When I first set out to make a shepherd’s pie, I knew I wanted to try a healthier twist on the classic dish. Sweet potatoes have this incredible natural sweetness that pairs so well with the savory lentil mix. The result was a heartwarming meal that my family couldn't get enough of!

One tip I've learned is to mash the sweet potatoes with a bit of garlic for added flavor. It enhances the overall taste and brings a depth that truly elevates the dish. Give it a try, and you may just find yourself craving it weekly!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
The perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors.
A nutritious twist on a classic comfort dish.
Hearty and filling, yet light and wholesome.

Ingredients Breakdown

The star of this Sweet Potato & Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is undoubtedly the sweet potato topping. Sweet potatoes not only provide a creamy and slightly sweet contrast to the savory lentils but also pack a rich nutritional profile, offering high fiber and vitamin content. When selecting sweet potatoes, look for ones that are firm and smooth; these will yield a creamier texture once cooked and mashed.

The lentils in this recipe serve as the protein-rich base, making this dish not only satisfying but also filling. I prefer green or brown lentils for their ability to hold their shape, adding a delightful texture to the filling. If you’re looking for a quicker alternative, canned lentils can also work; just ensure you reduce the cooking time since they're already cooked.

Technique Insights

When preparing the lentil filling, it's important to sauté the onions and carrots until they are softened for optimal flavor development. This step will release their natural sweetness and create a nuanced base for your dish. Cook the vegetables over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the carrots are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

While mashing the sweet potatoes, ensure they are fully cooked and soft—overcooking them can lead to watery mash. If you prefer a lighter texture, using a potato ricer can help achieve a fluffier result. Mix in the garlic and butter while the potatoes are still warm for better absorption of flavors and a silky finish.

Serving Suggestions

This shepherd’s pie is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it with a side salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. Consider a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the pie. If you want to incorporate grains, serve it alongside some quinoa or brown rice for added texture and nutrition.

If you're preparing this dish for meal prep, it freezes beautifully. Simply assemble it in a freezer-safe container before baking and freeze it unbaked. When you're ready to serve, bake directly from the freezer, adding an additional 10-15 minutes to the cook time to ensure it's heated through and the top is crispy.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 cup lentils (green or brown)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon thyme
1 teaspoon rosemary
1 cup vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Sweet Potato Topping

4 large sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped
2 tablespoons milk (or dairy-free alternative)
2 tablespoons butter (or dairy-free alternative)
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Prepare the Lentil Filling

Rinse and cook the lentils according to package instructions. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat, and sauté the onion and carrots until softened. Add the garlic, thyme, and rosemary, cooking for an additional minute. Stir in the cooked lentils and vegetable broth. Season with salt and pepper. Allow to simmer for about 10 minutes.

Make the Sweet Potato Mash

Boil sweet potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash them with the milk, butter, garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the lentil filling evenly in a baking dish. Top with sweet potato mash, smoothing it out. Use a fork to create peaks on top for extra crispiness.

Bake

Bake in the oven for 25 minutes or until the edges are bubbling and the top is golden and crispy.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some frozen peas or corn to the lentil filling. You can also substitute sweet potatoes with regular potatoes for a different texture.

Customization Ideas

One of the great aspects of this recipe is its adaptability. You can easily swap out the lentils for other legumes like chickpeas or black beans if you prefer a different flavor profile. Just be mindful of adjusting the seasoning according to the changed legumes, as flavors can vary significantly.

For an extra layer of flavor, experiment with different herbs and spices. A pinch of smoked paprika can add a delightful depth, while a dash of cayenne can offer a gentle kick for those who enjoy a bit of heat. Adding a splash of balsamic vinegar while cooking the filling can enhance the overall sweetness and complexity.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your lentil filling is too dry after simmering, simply add an additional splash of vegetable broth. This will not only help in moistening the filling but also enhance the dish's overall flavor. Conversely, if it's too watery, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes to reduce the liquid.

For the sweet potato topping, if you notice it becomes gluey or gummy during mashing, it's often because they were overcooked. To remedy this, make sure to mash them just until combined without overworking them. If you prefer a richer flavor, try roasting the sweet potatoes rather than boiling them; it adds a subtle caramelization that enhances the overall taste.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes! Simply use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives for the sweet potato topping.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and they can also be frozen for up to 3 months.

→ Can I use other types of lentils?

Yes, but keep in mind that different lentils have different cooking times. Green and brown lentils hold their shape best for this recipe.

→ What can I serve with shepherd’s pie?

This dish is hearty enough to stand alone, but a light salad or steamed vegetables can make a nice side.