Vegan Shepherds Pie Butternut Squash

Name: Vegan Shepherds Pie Butternut Squash
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed; 1 onion, diced; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon tomato paste; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon dried rosemary; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 tablespoon maple syrup; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Holistic Healthy Cooking

This Vegan Shepherds Pie features a creamy butternut squash topping that perfectly complements a savory lentil and vegetable filling. A hearty and warming dish that's perfect for any occasion!

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-25T22:19:28.059Z

This Vegan Shepherds Pie combines the rich flavors of lentils and a variety of vegetables topped with a creamy butternut squash mash. It's a comforting dish that is perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with a delicious plant-based meal.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy butternut squash topping that adds a unique twist
Packed with nutritious vegetables and protein-rich lentils
A comforting dish that warms your soul on cold days

      

A Comforting Classic with a Twist

Shepherd's Pie is a beloved classic that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. This vegan version takes the traditional recipe and infuses it with a delightful twist by using creamy butternut squash as a topping. Not only does it provide a rich and velvety texture, but it also adds a hint of sweetness that beautifully balances the savory lentil filling. This dish captures all the essence of the original while being entirely plant-based, making it suitable for everyone.

Whether you are a long-time vegan or simply looking to incorporate more plant-based meals into your diet, this Vegan Shepherd's Pie is an excellent choice. It showcases how compassionate eating can be delicious and satisfying. The combination of lentils and vegetables creates a robust filling that is hearty enough to satisfy even the most discerning eaters. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some extra veggies into your diet.

Nutritious Ingredients for a Healthy Meal

This dish is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrition. Lentils are a fantastic source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like iron and folate. Coupled with a medley of vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions, this recipe ensures you are getting a variety of vitamins and minerals in each serving. The butternut squash topping is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C, making this dish not only wholesome but also vibrant and colorful.

Using wholesome ingredients is key to creating a satisfying meal, and this Vegan Shepherd's Pie delivers on that front. The addition of maple syrup in the topping enhances the natural sweetness of the butternut squash while providing a touch of complexity to the flavor profile. Every bite is a delightful combination of textures and tastes that will leave you feeling nourished and content.

Perfect for Meal Prep and Leftovers

One of the great perks of this Vegan Shepherd's Pie is its suitability for meal prep. You can easily make a large batch and store leftovers in the fridge for quick, healthy meals throughout the week. Simply reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven, and you'll have a satisfying meal ready in no time. This is especially beneficial for busy weekdays when you want to enjoy a homemade dish without the hassle of cooking from scratch each day.

Not only does this dish keep well, but the flavors also deepen and improve after a day or two in the fridge. The savory filling becomes even more aromatic, and the creamy butternut squash topping remains deliciously comforting. It's a meal that gets better with time, making it a perfect candidate for your weekly meal rotation.

Ingredients

For the Filling

1 cup green or brown lentils, rinsed
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup vegetable broth
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Butternut Squash Topping

2 cups butternut squash, peeled and cubed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all the ingredients to prepare your Vegan Shepherds Pie.

Instructions

Prepare the Butternut Squash

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a pot, boil the cubed butternut squash until soft, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash with olive oil, maple syrup, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

Cook the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a splash of water or vegetable broth over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

Add Lentils and Seasonings

Add the lentils, vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes until lentils are tender and most of the liquid is absorbed.

Assemble the Pie

In a baking dish, spread the lentil mixture evenly. Top with the mashed butternut squash, smoothing it out with a spatula.

Bake and Serve

Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the top is slightly golden. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Enjoy your hearty Vegan Shepherds Pie with a side salad or your favorite bread!

Storage Tips

To store your Vegan Shepherd's Pie, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to five days, making it a convenient option for meal prep. If you want to extend its shelf life, consider freezing individual portions. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap or airtight freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.

When ready to enjoy your frozen shepherd's pie, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it in the oven for the best texture. You can also microwave it if you’re short on time, but the oven will help maintain that delightful creaminess of the butternut squash topping.

Serving Suggestions

This Vegan Shepherd's Pie can stand alone as a complete meal, but it pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad or steamed greens for added freshness. A light vinaigrette drizzled over a bed of mixed greens complements the richness of the pie and balances the meal perfectly. Consider adding some roasted vegetables for extra flavor and color on your plate.

For those looking to elevate their dining experience, a dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add an extra layer of flavor. If you enjoy a bit of heat, a few dashes of hot sauce or a side of pickled vegetables can provide a nice contrast to the comforting flavors.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to customize this Vegan Shepherd's Pie to suit your taste preferences. You can swap in different vegetables based on what you have on hand or what’s in season. Peas, corn, or even mushrooms would make fantastic additions to the filling. Additionally, if you like a bit of spice, consider adding some chili powder or smoked paprika for a kick.

For a different take on the topping, try blending the butternut squash with some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor or add in some cooked quinoa for added texture. This recipe is versatile, making it easy to adapt and create a dish that’s uniquely yours!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use a different type of squash?

Yes, you can substitute butternut squash with sweet potatoes or pumpkin if you prefer.

→ How long does this dish keep in the fridge?

The Vegan Shepherds Pie can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled pie before baking. Just thaw and bake when you're ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Vegan Shepherds Pie is gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth and check your ingredients.