9 Protein-Packed Vegetarian Meals That Won't Break the Bank

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Vegan shepherd's pie is a hearty and comforting dish, featuring a savory lentil and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Baked to golden perfection, this classic comfort food is transformed into a plant-based casserole that is perfect for family dinners or your weekly meal prep!

Ingredients (for about 9 servings):

• 1 cup dried green or brown lentils, rinsed
• 3 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tsp thyme
• 1 tsp rosemary
• 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
• 1/4 cup unsweetened plant-based milk (like almond or soy)
• 2 tbsp vegan butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a medium pot, combine the lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 20-25 min. until the lentils are tender but not mushy. Drain any excess liquid and set aside.
2. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until the vegetables are soft, about 8-10 min.
4. Stir in the garlic, tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 min.
5. Add the cooked lentils and frozen peas to the skillet, stirring to combine. Adjust seasoning to taste. Transfer the filling to a 9x13-inch casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
6. While the filling is cooking, boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 min.
7. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the plant-based milk, vegan butter, salt, and pepper, and mash until smooth and creamy.
8. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the lentil filling in the casserole dish, creating a smooth top layer.
9. Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the mashed potatoes if desired.
10. Bake for 25-30 min. until the top is golden and slightly crispy. Let it cool slightly before serving, and enjoy!