Shepherd’s pie is arguably one of the most comforting winter dishes. The mix of mashed potato, vegetables, and gravy is nourishing and hearty—perfect for days when you want to curl up away from the cold. Shepherd’s pie (and its close sibling, cottage pie) is traditionally made with ground meat, but it’s far from essential. Here’s how to create a vegan version of the cozy British dish, using nutrient-dense ingredients like lentils, mushrooms, and tofu, as well as plant-based meat. 

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What is the difference between cottage pie and shepherd’s pie?

The truth is, there isn’t much of a difference between cottage pie and shepherd’ pie. They’re both the same type of dish: a hearty meat and vegetable casserole, which is topped with creamy mashed potato. The only real difference is the type of meat used in each recipe.

RELATED: You Won’t Miss the Meat or Cheese in These Hearty British Recipes

Cottage pie has been made since the late 18th century and refers to a dish made by British peasants who lived in cottages. Traditionally, a cottage pie features a mixture of beef, vegetables (primarily carrots, peas, and onions), and gravy. However, as the name implies, a shepherd’s pie is usually made with lamb meat. 

However, per Britannica, a shepherd’s pie doesn’t actually have to be made with lamb mince. While cottage pies have a more strict definition, shepherd’s pies can be made with everything from chicken to lentils.

 “Shepherd’s pie can also be vegetarian and even vegan and still fit within the confines of the dish’s definition, which essentially affords a vehicle for home cooks to use leftovers from previous meals in a pleasing way,” explains Britannica.

As the recipes below demonstrate, there are many, many ways to make a delicious shepherd’s pie. From mushrooms to lentils to sweet potatoes and tofu, find some of our go-to vegan recipes below.

How to make vegan shepherd’s pie: 5 recipes

Fight the winter cold with these cozy recipes for hearty, meatless shepherd’s pie.

Vegan Shepherd’s Pie With Mushrooms and LentilsJessica in the Kitchen

1 Vegan Shepherd’s Pie With Mushrooms and Lentils

In this gluten-free vegan shepherd’s pie recipe, Jessica in the Kitchen combines nourishing ingredients like mushrooms, lentils, and garlic-infused mashed potatoes to make a midweek dish that oozes comfort and hearty flavors. “This shepherd’s pie satisfies all cravings for protein, fiber, and carbs while tasting absolutely delicious,” recipe developer Jessica Hylton told VegNews. “It’s also really easy to make, comes together in under 45 minutes, and freezes well!”
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 Meaty Vegan Shepherd’s PieThee Burger Dude

2 Meaty Vegan Shepherd’s Pie

If you’re craving the meaty texture of a traditional shepherd’s pie, check out this recipe from Thee Burger Dude. Recipe creator Brian Watson uses plant-based meat to recreate that juicy tender mouthfeel and combines it with fluffy, buttery dairy-free mash and vegetables. He also uses red wine to get that rich, depth of flavor in the gravy. “It might take a little time to make, but it’s worth it,” notes Watson.
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Vegan Sweet Potato Cottage PieMadeleine Olivia

3 Vegan Sweet Potato Cottage Pie

Sure, regular potatoes make for a creamy, fluffy topping on a shepherd’s pie, but in this version of the dish, Madeleine Olivia swaps in sweet potatoes, and we’re not complaining. It’s extra nutritious while still being nourishing and incredibly comforting. “I love making cottage pie with sweet potato, it adds just that little bit of sweetness and when combined with my favorite vegan cheese on top—you can’t beat it,” says Olivia.
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Vegan Shepherd’s Pie With Crispy PotatoesElle Republic

4 Vegan Shepherd’s Pie With Crispy Potatoes

Not a big fan of mash? Don’t worry, you can still get all the hearty goodness of shepherd’s pie without it. In this recipe, for example, Elle Republic swaps out mash for crispy potatoes and the resulting dish is just as delicious. Plus, it’ll also save you the elbow grease that it takes to mash up the potatoes. “I choose to make a sliced potato topping rather than mashed potatoes,” notes recipe creator Michaelle. “Mainly because it is less work, a little lighter on the calories, and I like the way it crisps up in the oven.”
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Easy Vegan Shepherd's Pie with TofuLavender and Macarons

5 Easy Vegan Shepherd’s Pie With Tofu

If you want the texture of mince but don’t fancy reaching for plant-based meat, you can get the same mouthfeel by crumbling up some tofu instead. “The combination of savory tofu, diverse vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a combination of flavors that is truly irresistible,” says recipe developer Iryna Bychkiv of Lavender & Macarons. “With its comforting warmth and delicious taste, this vegan shepherd’s pie is sure to become a favorite in your home.”
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