# Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie A hearty, wholesome twist on the classic comfort dish—featuring a savory lentil and vegetable filling, crowned with creamy mashed sweet potatoes and a golden breadcrumb topping. Perfect for cozy weeknights or plant-based holiday meals. ## Why You’ll Love This Recipe This Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a nourishing and satisfying dish that captures the essence of traditional comfort food while embracing plant-based ingredients. The rich lentil and vegetable filling offers protein and fiber, while the sweet potato topping provides a naturally sweet contrast and creamy texture. It’s perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to incorporate more whole foods into their diet. It’s simple to make, freezer-friendly, and ideal for meal prep or special occasions. ## Ingredients (Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.) * 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed * 1/4 cup plant-based milk (or regular milk) * 1 tablespoon olive oil or vegan butter * Salt and pepper, to taste * 1 tablespoon olive oil (for filling) * 1 yellow onion, diced * 2 garlic cloves, minced * 2 carrots, diced * 2 celery stalks, diced * 1 1/2 cups cooked green or brown lentils * 2 tablespoons tomato paste * 1 teaspoon smoked paprika * 1 teaspoon thyme * 1/2 cup vegetable broth * 1/4 cup breadcrumbs (optional topping) * Fresh parsley, for garnish ## Directions 1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). 2. In a large pot, boil the sweet potatoes until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with plant-based milk, olive oil or vegan butter, salt, and pepper. Set aside. 3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and sauté for 2–3 minutes. Add the carrots and celery, and cook until slightly tender. 4. Stir in the lentils, tomato paste, smoked paprika, thyme, and vegetable broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, until thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste. 5. Spread the lentil mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with mashed sweet potatoes, smoothing the surface with a spatula. 6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy finish. 7. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling. 8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. ## Servings and timing This recipe serves 4 to 6 people and takes approximately 50 minutes in total: 15 minutes for prep and 35 minutes for cooking and baking. ## Variations * **Spicy Version**: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes to the lentil mixture for heat. * **Cheesy Topping**: Add a layer of grated vegan cheese or dairy cheese over the mashed sweet potatoes before baking. * **Mashed Potato Alternative**: Substitute the sweet potatoes with regular mashed potatoes or a cauliflower mash. * **Different Lentils**: Use red lentils for a softer texture or black lentils for a firmer bite. * **Herb Swaps**: Substitute thyme with rosemary, sage, or Italian seasoning for different flavor profiles. ## Storage/Reheating Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 15–20 minutes. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave for 2–3 minutes. For longer storage, freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving. ## FAQs ### Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can assemble it up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until ready to bake. ### Are canned lentils suitable for this recipe? Yes, canned lentils can be used. Just rinse and drain them before adding. ### Can I use regular potatoes instead of sweet potatoes? Absolutely. Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes make a great topping. ### Is this recipe gluten-free? It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs or omitting the breadcrumb topping. ### How do I make this oil-free? Sauté vegetables in vegetable broth instead of oil, and skip the olive oil in the mashed potatoes. ### What kind of baking dish should I use? An 8×8 or 9×9 inch baking dish works well for this recipe. ### Can I add other vegetables to the filling? Yes, chopped mushrooms, peas, or corn are excellent additions. ### Is this a freezer-friendly meal? Yes, it freezes well. Assemble, cover tightly, and freeze before baking or freeze leftovers. ### What can I use instead of breadcrumbs? Crushed crackers, ground oats, or even a light sprinkle of nutritional yeast can be used. ### How can I make this more protein-rich? Add cooked quinoa or chopped walnuts to the lentil mixture for extra protein. ## Conclusion Sweet Potato Lentil Shepherd’s Pie is a wholesome, comforting, and satisfying dish that reimagines a classic favorite with a nutritious twist. It’s packed with vegetables and plant-based protein, easy to customize, and perfect for meal prep or entertaining. Whether you’re embracing plant-based eating or simply looking for a flavorful, filling dinner, this shepherd’s pie delivers both substance and taste in every bite.