Lamb and lentil cottage pie

Lamb and Lentil Cottage Pie features tender lamb mince and lentils cooked with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and melted cheese. This hearty dish is perfect for a comforting family dinner.

12 Feb 2026
Cook time 50 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

1 tbsp vegetable oil
3/4 cup mushrooms
1 onion
1 carrot
1 zucchini
2 garlic cloves
1 lb lamb mince
1 can canned tomatoes
1 cup canned lentils
1 cup beef broth
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
4 potatoes
1/3 cup milk (1% fat)
1/3 cup cheddar cheese
2 tbsp butter
1 yolk

Lamb and Lentil Cottage Pie is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of lamb, the earthiness of lentils, and a medley of vegetables, all topped with a creamy layer of mashed potatoes. This recipe offers a comforting, nutritious meal that is perfect for any family dinner. It's also an excellent way to incorporate more protein and vegetables into your diet.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetables and meat:
- Chop and dice all the vegetables as instructed.
- Heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Sauté vegetables:
- Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook until they become translucent.
- Add the sliced mushrooms, diced carrots, and diced zucchini. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

3. Cook the lamb:
- Add the lamb mince to the skillet with the vegetables. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat and cook until browned and cooked through, about 6-8 minutes. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Add remaining filling ingredients:
- Stir in the canned tomatoes, drained and rinsed lentils, beef broth, ground cumin, and paprika. Mix well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 20 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Prepare the mashed potato topping:
- While the filling is simmering, place the cubed potatoes in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Cook the potatoes until they are tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
- Add the butter, milk, and egg yolk to the potatoes. Mash everything together until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

6. Assemble the cottage pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer the lamb and lentil mixture into an ovenproof baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the lamb mixture, spreading them out to cover the filling entirely.
- Sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.

7. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.

8. Serve:
- Remove the cottage pie from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your hearty Lamb and Lentil Cottage Pie!

This Lamb and Lentil Cottage Pie is a satisfying and wholesome meal that's sure to become a favorite. The combination of savory lamb, hearty lentils, and creamy mashed potatoes creates a well-balanced dish that's perfect for colder months or whenever you're in need of some comfort food. Enjoy it fresh out of the oven or save leftovers for a quick and delicious meal later in the week.

Lamb and lentil cottage pie FAQ:

What is the recommended baking time for the cottage pie?

Bake the cottage pie at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the top is golden brown.

How can I tell if the lamb is cooked through?

The lamb mince should be browned and cooked through, which usually takes about 6-8 minutes on medium heat. No pink should remain in the meat.

Can I use other types of meat instead of lamb?

Yes, you can substitute the lamb mince with ground beef, turkey, or chicken, keeping in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.

What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the cottage pie for up to 2 months; just allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Can I make this cottage pie gluten-free?

Yes, ensure that all canned products and broth used are labeled gluten-free. The ingredients in this recipe do not contain gluten.

Tips:

- For a richer flavor, consider using a mix of different mushrooms.

- Ensure the potatoes are fully cooked and tender before mashing to get a smooth consistency.

- If you prefer a thicker pie filling, let the lamb and lentil mixture simmer for a few additional minutes to reduce more liquid.

- For a crispy topping, you can broil the pie for a few minutes after baking.

- Feel free to add other vegetables like peas or corn to the lamb mixture for more variety.

- If you don't have beef broth, you can substitute it with chicken or vegetable broth.

- To save time, you can prepare the lamb and lentil mixture a day ahead and refrigerate it. Assemble the pie just before baking.

Nutrition per serving

5 Servings
Calories 590kcal
Protein 30g
Carbohydrates 50g
Fiber 10g
Sugar 10g
Fat 36g

Lamb and lentil cottage pie