Center of Plate

Hearty Mushroom & Lentil Gardener’s Pie

Dig into pure comfort with our new Mushroom & Lentil Soup, transformed into a rich and savory Gardener’s Pie layered over a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes with tender garden vegetables.
30 min
Serves 2-4
Easy

This recipe transforms our Mushroom & Lentil Soup into a rich and comforting vegetarian gardener’s pie. By thickening the soup and adding classic stew vegetables, you create a hearty filling that is perfectly complemented by a bed of fluffy mashed potatoes. This dish is the ultimate plant-based comfort food, delivering a satisfying, savory experience in every bite.

Ingredients
  • 4 cups Mushroom & Lentil Soup
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup frozen peas and carrots mixture
  • 1 cup frozen or fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
  • 2-3 cups prepared fluffy mashed potatoes
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Directions

  1. Prepare the Mushroom & Lentil Stew: In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1 minute, stirring constantly, to create a roux.
  2. Slowly pour in the Mushroom & Lentil Soup, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring occasionally until the soup thickens to a stew-like consistency.
  3. Add the frozen peas and carrots and the green beans to the simmering soup. Stir well and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble the Dish: Place the prepared fluffy mashed potatoes in the bottom of two or three individual bowls, or a single oven-safe baking dish. Spread the potatoes evenly to create a flat, fluffy base.
  5. Carefully ladle the hot mushroom and lentil stew mixture over the mashed potatoes.
  6. Serve immediately. For a beautiful presentation, you can garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika.

Tips for success:

  • For the mashed potatoes: Use a ricer or a potato masher to get the creamiest, fluffiest mashed potatoes possible. Adding a little butter and warm milk to the potatoes while mashing will enhance their flavor and texture.
  • To make it a true “pie”: For a crispier topping, spread the mashed potatoes over the stew in an oven-safe dish, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
  • Vary the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, chopped celery, or diced potatoes to the stew mixture for extra heartiness.