Cheesy Lentil Shepherd’s Pie: Hearty Vegetarian Comfort Food

Sure! Let’s dive into the wonderful world of Vegetarian Shepherd’s-Style Pie. 🥧 This hearty dish combines the wholesome goodness of lentils, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all baked to perfection with a cheesy topping. Perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering with friends and family.

Vegetarian Shepherd’s-Style Pie

Preparation Time: 1 hour
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 3/4 cup water
• 1 cup dry lentils
• 3 garlic cloves
• 1 1/2 cups diced parsnips
• 1 medium red onion, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) Italian-style diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 4 large potatoes
• 3 tablespoons butter or margarine
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt, to taste
• 1/4 – 1/3 cup milk
• 1 1/2 cups shredded colby cheese

Instructions:

1. Prepare Lentil Mixture:

   • In a large pot, combine vegetable broth, water, lentils, and minced garlic cloves.
   • Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.

2. Add Vegetables:

   • After 20 minutes, add diced parsnips and chopped red onion to the pot.
   • Return the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for an additional 15 minutes or until the vegetables and lentils are tender.

3. Prepare Potato Topping:

   • While the lentil mixture is simmering, peel and dice the potatoes.
   • Cook the potatoes in salted water in a 2-quart saucepan for 20-25 minutes or until tender. Then, drain them.

4. Mash Potatoes:

   • Mash the cooked potatoes using a potato masher or whip them with an electric mixer until smooth.

5. Add Flavor:

   • Stir in butter, dried thyme, and salt to the mashed potatoes.
   • Gradually beat in enough milk to achieve a fluffy consistency.
   • Mix in 1 cup of shredded colby cheese until melted and well combined.

6. Assemble and Bake:

   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Spread the cooked lentil mixture evenly into an oblong or appropriately sized casserole dish.
   • Top the lentil mixture with the prepared mashed potato mixture.

7. Bake:

   • Cover the casserole dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until heated thoroughly.

8. Add Cheese Topping:

   • Remove the foil and sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded colby cheese over the top of the pie.
   • Return the uncovered dish to the oven and bake for an additional 5 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

9. Serve and Enjoy:

   • Once baked to perfection, remove the Vegetarian Shepherd’s-Style Pie from the oven.
   • Allow it to cool slightly before serving.
   • Garnish with fresh herbs, if desired, and serve hot.

This wholesome and flavorful dish is not only vegetarian-friendly but also low in cholesterol, making it a healthy option for any mealtime. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a dish to impress at your next potluck, this Vegetarian Shepherd’s-Style Pie is sure to delight your taste buds and satisfy your hunger. Enjoy! 🌟