Spinach and Lentil Shepherd's Pie

Name: Spinach and Lentil Shepherd's Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon paprika; 2 cups vegetable broth; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed; 1/2 cup milk; 4 tablespoons butter; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Family Favorite Comfort Food

I love making this Spinach and Lentil Shepherd's Pie because it combines my passion for comfort food with nutritious ingredients. The hearty lentils provide protein and fiber, while the spinach adds vibrant color and a wealth of vitamins. What truly makes this dish special is the creamy mashed potato topping that contrasts beautifully with the savory lentil filling. It's not only delicious but also a great way to sneak in more greens into your family's diet. I often whip this up for gatherings; it's always a crowd-pleaser!

Created by

Lena

Last updated on 2026-02-01T16:34:29.390Z

When I first experimented with this Spinach and Lentil Shepherd's Pie, I was amazed by how well the flavors meld together. The lentils, simmered with garlic and spices, create a rich base, while the spinach lightens the dish, making it satisfying yet refreshing. One tip I learned is to let the pie sit for a few minutes after cooking; this allows the flavors to develop even more.

I've served this dish at dinner parties and family gatherings, and it always garners compliments. The secret is in the seasoning—don’t be afraid to adjust it to your taste. It pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad for a complete meal!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Nutritious blend of lentils and spinach for a wholesome meal
Creamy mashed potato topping that is sure to satisfy
Easily customizable with spices and vegetables to your liking

The Role of Lentils

Lentils are the backbone of this Shepherd's Pie, providing not only substantial protein but also an excellent source of fiber. Their earthy flavor complements the richness of the pie, absorbing the savory broth while cooking. When selecting lentils, green or brown are ideal choices for this dish as they hold their shape well, giving the filling a pleasant texture. Make sure to rinse them thoroughly before cooking to remove any debris and to enhance their digestibility.

One thing to note is that lentils can vary in cooking time depending on their age and type. To prevent overcooking, keep an eye on them and start checking for tenderness around the 20-minute mark. If undercooked, simply return them to the heat, adding a splash more broth if needed. The goal is to achieve a tender but not mushy texture, as they will continue to soften slightly while baking in the oven.

Perfecting the Mashed Potato Topping

The mashed potato topping is what elevates this dish to comfort food status, providing a creamy contrast to the hearty filling beneath. For the creamiest consistency, I recommend using starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds. After boiling them until tender, be sure to drain them well to avoid excess moisture, which could lead to a soupy topping instead of a fluffy one. Mash with your preferred tools – a potato masher or ricer for that dreamily smooth texture.

When mixing in the milk and butter, warm them slightly before adding to the potatoes. This simple step ensures that the potatoes don’t cool down, making it easier to achieve a creamy, even consistency. Be cautious with the salt; taste as you go, especially if your butter or milk is salted. You can also experiment by adding roasted garlic or herbs like chives into the mash for an extra flavor boost.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

This Spinach and Lentil Shepherd's Pie is an excellent make-ahead option. You can prepare the filling and the mashed potato topping a day in advance. Store each component in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you're ready to bake, layer the filling in a baking dish, top with the mashed potatoes, and bake straight from the fridge; just extend the baking time by 5-10 minutes until it's hot and bubbly throughout.

If you're looking to make this dish in bulk, you can easily double the ingredient amounts and freeze half for later. After assembling the pie, cover tightly with plastic wrap and then aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. When ready to use, thaw in the fridge overnight, then bake at 375°F (190°C) as directed. This dish remains delicious even when frozen, with flavors deepening over time!

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to make your Spinach and Lentil Shepherd's Pie:

For the Filling

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon paprika
2 cups vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Topping

4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 cup milk
4 tablespoons butter
Salt to taste

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your delicious Shepherd's Pie:

Cook the Lentils

In a large pot, combine lentils, onion, garlic, and carrots. Add vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 25 minutes, until lentils are tender.

Add Spinach and Season

Stir in the chopped spinach along with thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the spinach wilts. Set aside.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with milk, butter, and salt until smooth.

Assemble the Pie

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a baking dish, spread the lentil filling evenly. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface. Use a fork to create a pattern on top.

Bake

Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown. Let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Your Spinach and Lentil Shepherd's Pie is ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding some grated cheese on top of the mashed potatoes before baking. You can also mix in other vegetables like peas or corn for variety.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty dish can stand on its own, but a fresh side salad or steamed vegetables can add a vibrant touch to your meal. Consider a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette to provide a refreshing contrast. Adding a sprinkle of feta cheese or a dollop of Greek yogurt on top of each serving can also enhance the flavor profile, introducing a tangy element that complements the richness of the pie.

For a bit of fun, serve it with a side of crusty bread. You can use the bread to scoop up the filling, adding both texture and a satisfying crunch against the creamy mashed potatoes. Also, consider pairing it with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir, to balance the earthy flavors of the lentils and the richness of the pie.

Ingredient Substitutions

If lentils aren't your favorite or you want to meet certain dietary needs, consider substituting them with chickpeas or black beans for a similar protein boost. Both options will lend distinct flavors to the pie while still maintaining its comfort food essence. Additionally, for a gluten-free option, ensure that your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free; otherwise, you're already safe with this dish as all other ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

For a dairy-free variation, swap out the milk and butter with unsweetened almond or oat milk and a plant-based butter. This modification won't compromise the creaminess of the mashed potatoes. Also, you might want to experiment with different vegetables in the filling, such as bell peppers or zucchini, depending on what's in season or your personal preferences.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this shepherd's pie vegan?

Yes! Simply use plant-based milk and vegan butter for the mashed potatoes.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Absolutely! You can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just thaw it in the fridge overnight before baking.

→ What can I serve with this shepherd's pie?

A simple green salad or steamed vegetables would pair nicely with this hearty dish.