Friends, I present Thanksgiving in a baking dish. Let’s do this!

Origin of Shepherd’s Pie

The exact origin of Shepherd’s pie is a bit of a mystery! But both the Irish and British claim the origination of this hearty, mashed potato crust dish. It’s thought that it may have developed in the mid-19th century from cottage pie, which is a similar dish made with a different type of meat in the filling (source).

Our plant-based version is inspired by the concept of a “meaty” filling (in this case, mushrooms) topped with potatoes and baked to perfection.

How to Make Vegan Sweet Potato Shepherd’s Pie

This easy recipe requires just 10 ingredients (2 more if adding these dreamy balsamic mushrooms!) and simple methods to make.

The base is a simple mixture of vegetables and lentils simmered with fresh thyme in vegetable broth until tender and flavorful. Next up? If you dare, these balsamic-glazed portobello mushrooms, which add another layer of hearty goodness to this pie.

For topping, in place of traditional white potatoes (like in my 1-Hour Vegan Shepherd’s Pie), I went for sweet potatoes (the best potatoes, in my opinion).

Simply boil then mash with a little salt and coconut oil. Then it’s time to layer up all of this goodness.

First, lay down the lentils and vegetables. Then add the balsamic portobellos (optional but dreamy!). And then top with fluffy mashed sweet potatoes. Swoon! Just 20 minutes in the oven and you’re good to go!

I hope you all LOVE this shepherd’s pie! It’s:

Hearty

Comforting

Healthy

Satisfying

Flavorful

Versatile

& Delicious!

This would make the perfect entrée for holiday gatherings or hosting a crowd of mixed eaters – plant-based folks and meat-eaters alike will love this one! It’s also ideal for making in advance and reheating throughout the week for quick meals on the go (hello, best leftover lunch ever).

While delicious on its own, it would also pair well with my Creamy Kale Salad with Shallot and Chickpeas, Fluffy Spelt Rolls, Vegan Gluten-Free Biscuits, and pretty much everything in this Vegan Thanksgiving Round-Up!

If you try this recipe, let us know what you think! Leave a comment, rate it, and don’t forget to tag a photo #minimalistbaker on Instagram so we can see your holiday spread. Cheers, friends!