Spoon Simple
Lentil and Ground Turkey Shepherd's Pie
A wholesome and hearty shepherd's pie featuring a savory filling of lean ground turkey and lentils topped with a creamy mashed sweet potato crust. This comforting dish is packed with protein and flavor.
Prep 25 min
Cook 45 min
Total 1h 10m
Serves 6
Ingredients
Step 1 — For the Filling
- 1 lb lean ground turkey
- 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Step 2 — For the Topping
- 2 large sweet potatoes (about 2 lbs)
- 1/4 cup milk (dairy or non-dairy)
- 2 tbsp butter (dairy or non-dairy)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1
Prepare Sweet Potato Topping
Peel and cube the sweet potatoes. Place in a pot, cover with water, and bring to a boil. Cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain well, then mash with milk and butter. Season with salt and pepper.
- 2
Sauté Vegetables
While sweet potatoes cook, heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
- 3
Brown Turkey and Add Lentils
Add the ground turkey to the skillet and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain any excess fat. Stir in the rinsed lentils, diced tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Season with salt and pepper.
- 4
Simmer Filling
Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 25-30 minutes, or until lentils are tender and the sauce has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- 5
Assemble and Bake
Preheat your broiler. Spread the mashed sweet potato topping evenly over the lentil and turkey filling. Place the skillet under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching carefully, until the topping is lightly golden brown. Alternatively, bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15 minutes until heated through and lightly browned.
Nutrition per serving: 480 cal · 38g protein · 50g carbs · 15g fat · 12g fiber
For informational purposes only. Not medical or dietary advice. Verify ingredients for allergens, cooking times, and safe internal temperatures before serving.
