Spoon Simple
Hearty Lentil and Beef Shepherd's Pie
A comforting and nutritious twist on a classic, this shepherd's pie combines lean beef and hearty lentils for a protein-packed family meal. It's a satisfying dish perfect for cooler evenings.
Prep 25 min
Cook 40 min
Total 1h 5m
Serves 6
Ingredients
Step 1 — For the Filling
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Step 2 — For the Topping
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/4 cup milk (or non-dairy alternative)
- 2 tbsp butter (or olive oil)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Cook Potatoes
Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover with water, add a pinch of salt, and bring to a boil. Cook until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
- 2
Sauté Vegetables
While potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook until softened, about 7-8 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- 3
Brown Beef and Simmer
Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain excess fat. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary; cook for 1 minute. Add the rinsed lentils, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened.
- 4
Mash Potatoes
Mash the drained potatoes with milk and butter (or olive oil), salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust consistency as needed.
- 5
Assemble and Bake
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Spoon the mashed potatoes evenly over the lentil and beef filling in the skillet. Create some texture on top with a fork. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the filling is bubbling and the potato topping is lightly golden brown.
Nutrition per serving: 520 cal · 35g protein · 50g carbs · 20g fat · 12g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
