Vegetable shepherd’s pie is a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for those who prefer a plant-based or lighter twist on the traditional shepherd’s pie. Instead of ground meat, this version is filled with a savory mixture of vegetables, lentils, and rich gravy, all topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes that bake to golden perfection.
The base of vegetable shepherd’s pie typically includes a variety of vegetables like carrots, peas, corn, onions, and celery, which are sautéed until tender. To give the filling more depth, hearty ingredients like lentils or mushrooms are added to create a rich, meaty texture. The mixture is then simmered in a savory gravy made with vegetable broth, garlic, thyme, rosemary, and a splash of soy sauce or tomato paste to add umami and a bit of richness.
Once the filling is prepared, it’s topped with a layer of mashed potatoes. The potatoes are boiled until soft and then mashed with butter (or olive oil for a dairy-free version), cream, or vegetable broth, and seasoned with salt and pepper. The mashed potatoes are spread evenly over the vegetable mixture, and the pie is baked in the oven until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
The result is a warm, comforting dish with a combination of textures — the soft, creamy mashed potatoes contrast beautifully with the hearty, savory vegetable filling. Each bite is packed with flavor, and it’s a satisfying, wholesome meal that can be enjoyed on its own or with a simple side salad.
Vegetable shepherd’s pie is perfect for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking for a healthier twist on a classic. It’s an excellent way to use up leftover vegetables and can be easily adapted to suit personal preferences.
For drinks, this dish pairs well with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay, or a crisp sparkling water for a refreshing contrast.

Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
- 1 small onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 cup peas frozen
- 1 cup corn frozen
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 3 cups mashed potatoes prepared
- to taste salt and pepper
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic, sauté until softened.
- Add carrots, peas, and corn to the skillet. Cook for about 5 minutes until vegetables begin to soften.
- Stir in vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, and rosemary. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the vegetable mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
- Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
It’s okay, but I feel like it needs more seasoning. Got any suggestions?
I tried this but I used sweet potatoes instead. Came out delicious! Who needs the regular ones right?
This recipe was fantastic! So hearty and flavorful. Will definitely make it again!
Honestly, I don’t get how this can be a shepherd’s pie without meat. Seems kinda weird to me.
It’s called vegetable shepherd’s pie for a reason! You can make a delicious version without meat. Give it a try!
Just made it but forgot the thyme 🙈. Still tastes pretty good though! ⭐⭐⭐
Came out a bit mushy, I’m not a good cook tho. Maybe I overcooked the veggies? Gonna try it again!
Overcooked? Nah, just needs more practice! Just avoid mushy potatoes. Good luck!
Don’t worry, it happens to the best of us! Maybe try cooking the veggies for less time next time.
This is a fantastic recipe! I love how simple it is, and it tastes delicious. My kids gobbled it up!
It was okay. The mashed potatoes were great, but the filling needed more seasoning. Maybe I should’ve added more herbs.
Can you even call this a shepherds pie? Where’s the meat? Feels like a slop to me. 👎
I don’t know about this… I mean, what’s the point of a shepherd’s pie without meat? 😕
So easy to cook! My kids loved it and I felt healthy eating it! Vegetable rules! 🌿👍
Awesome, I used sweet potatoes instead and it was a hit!
Vegetable broth? Is that the same as chicken broth? 🤔
No, vegetable broth is made from veggies, not chicken. It’s good for vegetarian dishes! 😊
Not bad, but can definitely taste the lack of meat. Maybe add some mushrooms next time.
I don’t know about adding mushrooms. Seems like it would just make it mushy. I like it as is, less is more!
I think mushrooms would be a great addition! They really give that umami flavor. Might even add some walnuts for crunch too!
This was delish! My family loved it!
Where’s the meat? This isn’t a real shepherd’s pie.
Real shepherd’s pie uses meat! No meat, no shepherd’s pie. Just a veggie dish.
This was amazing! Super hearty and full of flavor. Will definitely make again. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
I tried it, but it was too mushy for my taste. I prefer my pies crispier. 🤷♂️
I’m glad you liked it! This recipe really is a winner. Do you have any suggestions for variations?
Uhh, are you sure this is shepherd’s pie? Where’s the meat? But yeah, it’s not bad for plant stuff.
I know right? It’s not traditional, but kinda tasty anyway! 🙂
Yummy and healthy! My kids ate everything, even the peas!
Yum! Added some mushrooms and it made it even better. Thanks for sharing!
Mushrooms sound like a great addition! I’ll have to try that next time.
Honestly, never heard of shepherd’s pie with veggies. Is that even a thing?
Yes, it is! Veggie shepherd’s pie is delicious and a great way to get your greens in. It’s one of my favorites!
Not sure if that’s a real thing. I’ve always known shepherd’s pie with meat. Sounds weird to me.
I like eatin’ my veggies, but this was kinda bland. Needs more spices!
I totally agree! I added extra spices like paprika and cumin to mine, and it was much better. Can’t have bland veggies!
Made this for dinner last night, not sure about the mashed potatoes on top… really?
This was really good! I added some extra spices and it was a hit.
Great recipe! I used my own mashed potato recipe, added some cheese on top before baking, and it was a hit!
That sounds amazing! Cheese on top is such a great idea! I’ll definitely try that next time!
Perfect for a cold night! I used sweet potatoes instead, super tasty!
I love this veggie twist on shepherd’s pie! So comforting and perfect for winter nights. Will make again! ☺️
Shepherd’s pie has meat! This is not a real shepherd’s pie, it’s just a veggie mix with potatoes. 😡
I used sweet potatoes instead, turned out sweet but nice. I reckon you could switch up the veg too, ya know.
I dunno, sweet potatoes might be too much sweet. Regular potatoes are good enough for me. Not sure about all this.
Sweet potatoes? That’s a cool twist! I bet the flavor is awesome! Can’t wait to try it myself!
This recipe is amazing! So flavorful and hearty. My family loved it! I added some mushrooms for extra umami.
I found it too bland… needs more seasoning!
I totally agree! I added some cumin and chili powder to mine and it was way better. Definitely needs a kick!
Disgusting! I didn’t like it at all. Who puts peas in a shepherd’s pie? It’s just wrong!
I personally love peas, they add a sweet crunch! Maybe you just don’t like them? 🤷♂️
Putin pees in shepherd’s pie? Nah, that sounds ridiculous. Are you sure you didn’t mess up the recipe?
Simple recipe that turned out great! Will make again for sure!
Yum! This was a hit at dinner. Even my meat-loving husband enjoyed it! Who knew veggie could be good! ⭐⭐⭐⭐
So simple and easy to make! Will share this with my friends. Perfect to use up leftover veggies.
Vegetables are good for u! So I like this. Keep making healthy food!
I tried this but my mashed potatoes were too runny, and it didn’t turn out right. Gonna give it another shot though.
Runny potatoes? How do you even do that? Just make sure to drain them well before mashing!
Don’t worry, it happens! Maybe try using less broth next time? That helped me.
Too much tomato paste I think. Could taste it too strongly.
I think it’s just the right amount! Tomato paste gives it richness. Maybe try less next time?
Nah, too much? I love that flavor! It needs to be strong, come on! 😋
Good but too much thyme for my taste. Next time I’ll use only half a teaspoon. Still tasty tho!
I don’t know about this. Seems too plain to me. Butr hey, I ain’t a chef.
So simple yet so delicious! My kids loved it, will make it again for sure!
Really? My kids refused to touch their veggies, so I guess I’m doing something wrong!
I’m so glad to hear that! This recipe is a family favorite in my house too!
Why is it called shepherd’s pie if there’s no meat? Isn’t that odd?
Easier than I thought! I’ll definitely add this to my meals.
Can I use instant mashed potatoes? Don’t wanna waste too much time.
I dunno, It’s not as good as my grandma’s recipe. Miss the meat and flavor! 😕
But it’s vegetarian! Maybe try some meat if you want the flavor. It’s called a ‘shepherd’s pie’ for a reason! 😂
I get it! My grandma’s recipes are the best too, but have you tried adding some spices? It might help with the flavor! 🌶️
Yum! The mash on top was perfect! Even the husband, who hates veggies, ate it!
That’s awesome! If your husband liked it, it must be really good! I can’t wait to try this recipe!