Hearty & Budget-Friendly Vegan Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This vegan version keeps all the rich, savory flavors without the meat—using lentils, hearty vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes instead. The best part? This meal is filling, family-friendly, and costs under $20 to make!
Grocery List (Approximate Prices)
Russet potatoes (5 lb bag) – $3.00
Lentils (1 lb bag) – $2.00
Carrots (1 lb bag) – $1.50
Frozen peas – $1.50
Frozen corn – $1.50
Onion (1 large) – $0.75
Garlic (1 bulb) – $0.50
Vegetable broth (32 oz box) – $2.00
Tomato paste (small can) – $1.00
Olive oil (small bottle) – $2.00
Soy sauce – $1.50
Spices (thyme, paprika, salt, pepper) – $1.50
Total: $18.75
💡 Grocery Price Disclaimer: Prices may vary based on your location. These prices reflect the approximate cost for the portion needed in the recipe, not the full product price.
Kitchen Tools Needed
Large pot
Skillet
Baking dish
Potato masher
Knife & cutting board
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Serving Size: Serves 4
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potatoes:
4 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
2 tbsp olive oil
½ cup vegetable broth
Salt & pepper to taste
For the Lentil Filling:
1 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup lentils, rinsed
3 cups vegetable broth
1 tbsp tomato paste
1 tbsp soy sauce
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp paprika
½ tsp black pepper
½ cup frozen peas
½ cup frozen corn
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the diced potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
Drain the potatoes and mash with olive oil, vegetable broth, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
Step 2: Cook the Lentil Filling
Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and garlic, and sauté until softened.
Add the lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, soy sauce, thyme, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, until lentils are soft and the mixture thickens.
Stir in the frozen peas and corn, and cook for another 5 minutes.
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Pour the lentil mixture into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, spreading into an even layer. Use a fork to create texture.
Bake for 20 minutes, until the top is lightly golden.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Serving & Storage Tips
Serve with a side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Freeze for up to 2 months and reheat in the oven for a quick meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Budget-Friendly – Less than $20 for a meal that feeds four!
✔ High in Protein & Fiber – Lentils provide plant-based protein and keep you full.
✔ Comforting & Satisfying – Creamy mashed potatoes + savory filling = perfection.
Try this delicious, hearty Vegan Shepherd’s Pie for your next family dinner, and let me know how it turns out! 🍽️✨ #VeganValueMeals