When we think of comfort food, Shepherd’s Pie is right up there with the classics. But what if we gave it a gut-loving, nutrient-dense twist? Enter Carolyna’s French Onion Shepherd’s Pie, a cozy, flavor-packed dish made with white sweet potatoes, cauliflower, and lentils—plus a boost of collagen for extra protein and joint support.
Unlike traditional versions loaded with heavy dairy and red meat, this one is light yet rich, hearty yet balanced. The caramelized onions bring all the French onion soup vibes, while the creamy mashed cauliflower and sweet potato topping add a velvety texture. It’s a meal that fuels your body without weighing you down.
What You’ll Need
For the lentil filling:
- ¼ cup olive oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 16 oz lentils
- ⅓ cup tomato paste
- 1 tsp coconut aminos
- 20 oz chicken stock
- 1 tbsp salt
For the mash topping:
- 1 cauliflower, chopped
- 4 white sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2 scoops Needed Collagen
- 2 tbsp ghee
- Splash of coconut milk
- Salt, to taste
How to Make It
1. Make the French Onion-Inspired Lentil Filling
Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook low and slow until golden brown and caramelized—this is where all the flavor comes in. Once they reach a deep golden hue, toss in the bay leaves and lentils, stirring to toast them slightly.
Next, mix in tomato paste and coconut aminos, coating the lentils in that umami-packed goodness. Pour in the chicken stock, add salt, and let it all simmer until the lentils are tender and the liquid is completely reduced. You should be left with a thick, rich filling. Remove the bay leaves.
2. Make the Creamy Mashed Topping
While the lentils cook, bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the cauliflower and sweet potatoes, cooking until fork-tender. Drain and mash while hot—this helps achieve that smooth, creamy texture.
Stir in ghee, coconut milk, Needed Collagen, and a pinch of salt. Keep mashing until silky and well combined.
3. Assemble and Bake
Preheat your broiler. Spread the thickened lentil mixture into a baking dish, then smooth the mashed cauliflower and sweet potato mixture on top.
Pop it under the broiler for a few minutes until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Nutrient-dense & gut-friendly – Packed with fiber from lentils and cauliflower, plus collagen to support joints, skin, and gut health.
Light yet satisfying – Creamy mashed white sweet potatoes keep it cozy without the heaviness of dairy.
Meal-prep friendly – Store leftovers in the fridge and enjoy throughout the week.
