Root Vegetable Shepherd's Pie

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook: 50 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Root Vegetable Shepherd's Pie is a comforting twist on a classic dish, perfect for cozy evenings. By swapping out the usual meat with hearty lentils and vibrant root vegetables, it becomes a nourishing, vegetarian delight.

Ingredients for Root Vegetable Shepherd's Pie

Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables, adding a subtle richness to the dish. Onion and garlic form the aromatic base, enhancing the overall flavor. Carrots, parsnips, and potatoes bring a natural sweetness and heartiness that complements the lentils. Green lentils provide protein and a satisfying bite, absorbing the flavors of the broth. Vegetable broth ties everything together with savory depth. A touch of tomato paste adds a hint of acidity and umami. Thyme and rosemary lend an earthy fragrance, while frozen peas add a pop of color and freshness. Finally, cheddar cheese gives a gooey, golden finish on top.

Tips & Tricks

  • Prep your vegetables ahead of time to streamline the cooking process.
  • If you like a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic.
  • Use a mix of different root vegetables for varied textures and flavors.

Serving Suggestions

This Root Vegetable Shepherd's Pie pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside crusty bread to soak up any extra broth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare it up to the baking step and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes, it freezes well. Just cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to two months.
What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
Try mozzarella for a milder taste or Gruyère for a nuttier flavor.

Root Vegetable Shepherd's Pie Recipe Walkthrough

First, preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s ready when you need it. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, letting them sauté until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step builds the flavor base.

Next, toss in the carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Cook these until they’re lightly browned, stirring occasionally. They don’t need to be fully tender at this point since they’ll continue cooking later.

Now, add the lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary into the skillet. Stir everything together and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the lentils are tender and have absorbed much of the liquid.

Once the lentils are done, stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer this hearty mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.

Sprinkle the top with cheddar cheese, ensuring an even layer so it melts beautifully. Pop it in the oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Let it cool slightly before serving. This makes it easier to serve and enhances the flavors.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Hearty and satisfying without the meat.
  • Perfectly balanced with rich flavors and textures.
  • Simple, wholesome ingredients you might already have at home.
  • Ideal for meal prep or feeding a crowd.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups carrots, diced
2 cups parsnips, diced
2 cups potatoes, diced
1 cup green lentils, rinsed
4 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 teaspoon fresh rosemary
1 cup frozen peas
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
3. Stir in carrots, parsnips, and potatoes, cooking until lightly browned.
4. Add lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer for 20 minutes or until lentils are tender.
5. Stir in frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25 minutes or until cheese is golden and bubbly.
8. Let cool slightly before serving.

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