Spoon Simple
Ground Turkey and Lentil Shepherd's Pie with Sweet Potato Topping
A comforting and healthy twist on a classic, this shepherd's pie features a savory ground turkey and lentil filling topped with a vibrant, slightly sweet mashed sweet potato crust. Packed with protein and fiber.
Prep 25 min
Cook 40 min
Total 1h 5m
Serves 5
Ingredients
Step 1 — For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground turkey
- 1 cup chopped yellow onion
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Step 2 — For the Topping
- 2 pounds sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Cook Sweet Potatoes
Place cubed sweet potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well.
- 2
Sauté Vegetables and Turkey
While sweet potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add ground turkey and cook, breaking it up, until browned. Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- 3
Simmer Filling
Stir in rinsed lentils, broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender and liquid has mostly absorbed. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4
Mash Topping
Mash the drained sweet potatoes with milk, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth. Add more milk if needed for desired consistency.
- 5
Assemble and Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the mashed sweet potato topping evenly over the turkey and lentil filling. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until heated through and the topping is lightly golden.
Nutrition per serving: 510 cal · 35g protein · 55g carbs · 18g fat · 12g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
