Healthy & Special Diets > Dairy-Free Recipes > Dairy-Free Dinners > Vegan Cheese Alternatives in Recipes

Dairy-Free Shepherd's Pie with Sweet Potato Topping

A hearty and comforting twist on a classic, this Shepherd's Pie features a flavorful lentil and vegetable base topped with a creamy dairy-free sweet potato mash.

Prep Time
25 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour
Servings
6
Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp Olive oil
  • 1 medium, chopped Onion
  • 2 medium, diced Carrots
  • 2 stalks, diced Celery
  • 2 cloves, minced Garlic
  • 1 cup, rinsed Brown or green lentils
  • 4 cups Vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp Tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Dried thyme
  • 1 Bay leaf
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper
  • 3 medium, peeled and cubed Sweet potatoes
  • 1/4 cup Plant-based milk
  • 2 tbsp Vegan butter or olive oil

Prepare the Lentil Filling

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Stir in the rinsed lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the lentils are tender.

Prepare the Sweet Potato Topping

While the lentils are simmering, cook the sweet potatoes. Place the cubed sweet potatoes in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well and return the sweet potatoes to the pot. Add the plant-based milk and vegan butter (or olive oil). Mash until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Remove the bay leaf from the lentil mixture. Pour the lentil mixture into a baking dish. Spread the sweet potato mash evenly over the top of the lentil mixture. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the sweet potato topping is lightly browned and the filling is bubbly.

Serve

Let the Shepherd's Pie cool slightly before serving.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

(Note: These are estimates and can vary based on specific ingredients used)

  • Calories: 120-160
  • Protein: 5-7g
  • Fat: 4-6g
  • Carbohydrates: 15-20g
  • Fiber: 4-6g

Other Important Considerations for Nutrition

  • This recipe is a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
  • For added flavor, consider adding other vegetables to the lentil filling, such as mushrooms or peas.
  • Ensure you are using a plant-based milk that is fortified with calcium and vitamin D.

FAQ

  • Can I use a different type of lentil?

    Yes, you can use red lentils, but they will cook faster, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.
  • Can I freeze this Shepherd's Pie?

    Yes, this Shepherd's Pie freezes well. Let it cool completely before wrapping it tightly and freezing. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.