Are you ready to indulge in a hearty, comforting dish that warms both the body and soul? Our Slow Cooker Lentil Shepherd's Pie is not just a meal; it's a culinary hug in a bowl! Packed with nutritious lentils, vibrant vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, this British classic is perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings. With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can set it and forget it while your slow cooker does all the work. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful twist on a traditional favorite!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: British
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup lentils, rinsed
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Thoroughly rinse the lentils under cold water and drain completely to remove any debris or stones.
- Dice the carrots into small, uniform cubes to ensure even cooking, and finely chop the onion and mince the garlic cloves.
- In the slow cooker, combine the rinsed lentils, diced carrots, chopped onion, and minced garlic.
- Pour the vegetable broth over the lentil mixture, then add Worcestershire sauce and dried thyme. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season the lentil base with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
- Cover the slow cooker and set to low heat. Cook for 5-6 hours, allowing the lentils to become tender and absorb the flavors.
- About 30 minutes before serving, prepare the mashed potatoes. Ensure they are smooth and well-seasoned.
- Once lentils are cooked and tender, spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the lentil mixture in the slow cooker.
- If desired, use a fork to create texture on the potato surface for a traditional shepherd's pie appearance.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes to heat the potatoes and meld the flavors together.
- Serve hot directly from the slow cooker, portioning into individual servings.
Tips
- Rinse Lentils Thoroughly: Ensure you rinse the lentils well under cold water to remove any debris. This step is crucial for achieving the best flavor and texture.
- Uniform Vegetable Cuts: Dice the carrots into small, uniform cubes. This not only helps with even cooking but also enhances the overall presentation of your dish.
- Layering Flavors: When adding the vegetable broth, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme, stir thoroughly to ensure that all the ingredients are well combined. This will help the lentils absorb all the delicious flavors.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your lentil mixture before adding the mashed potatoes. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking for a perfectly seasoned dish.
- Texture Matters: For that classic shepherd's pie look, use a fork to create ridges on the surface of the mashed potatoes. This not only adds texture but also helps achieve a beautiful golden crust when cooking.
- Cook Time Flexibility: If you're in a hurry, you can cook the lentils on high heat for about 3-4 hours instead of low heat. Just be sure to check for doneness!
- Serving Suggestions: Serve your shepherd's pie hot, directly from the slow cooker, for a rustic presentation. Pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 5mg
