Mushroom and Spinach Shepherd's Pie

Name: Mushroom and Spinach Shepherd's Pie
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 300g mushrooms, sliced; 200g fresh spinach; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 2 tablespoons flour; 150ml vegetable broth; 500g potatoes, peeled and chopped; 50g butter; 100ml cream; Salt to taste

Highlighted under: Warm Plates

I love making Mushroom and Spinach Shepherd's Pie on cozy evenings when I crave something hearty and comforting. This dish combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the freshness of spinach, all under a crispy layer of mashed potatoes. During the process, I discovered how crucial it is to sauté the mushrooms thoroughly to enhance their umami flavor, bringing a rich depth to the pie. It's become a staple in my kitchen and a delightful way to enjoy vegetables in a satisfying meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-02-02T17:45:06.148Z

When I first decided to make Mushroom and Spinach Shepherd's Pie, I wanted to create a vegetarian version of the classic dish that wouldn't compromise on flavor. I experimented with various types of mushrooms and found a perfect blend of shiitake and cremini that brought a meaty texture to the filling. It was a revelation how the different types of mushrooms contributed unique flavors, making each bite delightful.

One of my favorite tips is to prepare the mashed potatoes with a bit of butter and cream, which lends a silky richness that pairs beautifully with the umami filling. I always make extra mashed potatoes to enjoy on the side; it’s a great way to elevate this comforting dish even further.

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Savory filling packed with nutritious vegetables
Creamy mashed potato topping that is utterly satisfying
Great make-ahead meal for busy weeknights
A fun twist on traditional shepherd's pie that everyone will enjoy

Enhancing Flavor with Proper Cooking Techniques

When preparing the filling for your Mushroom and Spinach Shepherd's Pie, the sautéing process is crucial for maximizing flavor. I recommend cooking the mushrooms until all their moisture has evaporated, which usually takes about 7-10 minutes. This step intensifies their umami flavor, adding a rich depth to the filling. If you notice the mushrooms releasing water, keep cooking until they reach a golden brown color; this not only enhances flavor but also helps in achieving a satisfying texture.

Incorporating the spinach at the right time is essential. You want to add it to the pan once the mushrooms have fully cooked, allowing it to wilt gently without losing its vibrant color or nutritional value. Stirring in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper at this point ensures that the herbs release their aromatic oils, creating a more flavorful base for the pie.

Perfecting the Mashed Potato Topping

For the mashed potato topping, using floury potatoes like Russets will yield a fluffy, creamy texture. After boiling the potatoes for about 15 minutes, drain them thoroughly to prevent any excess moisture, which can lead to a soupy topping. When mashing, a hand masher works beautifully, allowing you to control the texture better than a food processor, which can turn your potatoes gummy if overworked.

Adding warm butter and cream makes all the difference in achieving a luxuriously smooth finish. If you're looking for a lighter alternative, consider using chicken broth or plant-based milk in place of cream. Just remember, since this recipe centers on flavor, opt for unsalted butter to better control the seasoning of your pie.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a hearty Mushroom and Spinach Shepherd's Pie.

Filling

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
300g mushrooms, sliced
200g fresh spinach
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon soy sauce
2 tablespoons flour
150ml vegetable broth

Mashed Potatoes

500g potatoes, peeled and chopped
50g butter
100ml cream
Salt to taste

Ensure all ingredients are prepped and ready before you start cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your Shepherd's Pie from scratch.

Prepare the Filling

Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until translucent. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until their moisture evaporates, about 7-10 minutes. Stir in the spinach, thyme, salt, pepper, and soy sauce. After the spinach wilts, sprinkle the flour and mix well. Gradually add vegetable broth, stirring until the mixture thickens. Remove from heat.

Make the Mashed Potatoes

Boil the chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add butter, cream, and salt. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). In a baking dish, layer the mushroom and spinach filling. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly. Use a fork to create peaks on the potato surface for a crispier finish. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.

Allow the Shepherd's Pie to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

You can substitute the mushrooms with lentils for a different texture. Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas for more nutrition.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Mushroom and Spinach Shepherd's Pie is a fantastic make-ahead meal. You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes a day prior, storing them in the refrigerator. Simply layer the components in your baking dish before placing them in the oven. If you choose to assemble it ahead of time, make sure to cover tightly with plastic wrap to prevent drying out. Bake from chilled, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the original cooking time to ensure it's heated through.

If you're looking to stock your freezer, this dish freezes well, though I recommend freezing the components separately. Once the filling has cooled, transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. The mashed potatoes can also be frozen; just be mindful that they may change texture slightly upon reheating. To reheat, let them thaw in the fridge overnight before baking, ensuring even heating.

Variations and Customizations

Feel free to switch up the vegetables in the filling! While mushrooms and spinach are delicious, you can add or substitute other ingredients such as lentils for added protein or carrots and peas for an extra pop of color and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly; harder vegetables may need pre-steaming before adding to the pan.

For those following a dairy-free diet, you can replace the butter and cream with olive oil and a plant-based milk alternative, like almond or soy milk. Additionally, nutritional yeast can provide a cheesy flavor without dairy, perfect for topping your mashed potatoes for those looking to add a savory twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the filling and potatoes in advance. Assemble the pie just before baking.

→ Can I freeze leftover Shepherd's Pie?

Absolutely! Just cover it tightly and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

→ What can I use instead of cream in mashed potatoes?

You can use milk or a dairy-free alternative like almond milk or coconut cream for a lighter option.

→ How can I add more flavor to the filling?

Incorporate herbs like rosemary or add a splash of balsamic vinegar for extra depth.