Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This is crucial as it ensures that your pie gets that perfect golden brown top. A hot oven is the first step in achieving that wonderful texture.
- Lay the chopped cauliflower on a parchment-lined baking sheet. Give it a light spray with cooking spray to help it roast evenly. Roast for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cauliflower is tender but not mushy. You'll know it’s done when you can easily pierce it with a fork but it still holds its shape.
- Once the cauliflower is roasted, transfer it to the bowl of a food processor. Add the Greek yogurt, pure butter, sea salt, and black pepper. Process until smooth and creamy. This will form a luscious topping that you can’t resist. Taste it to ensure the seasoning is just right.
- Meanwhile, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the veggie soy crumbles and cook until browned. This usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. The crumbles should be nicely browned, adding depth to the filling.
- Add the diced onion, peas, and carrots to the skillet. Stir everything well and let it cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. The aroma will be heavenly!
- Now, combine the vegetable broth with the cornstarch in a bowl; stir until dissolved. Pour this mixture into the skillet along with the ketchup. Stir everything together and let it simmer for a couple of minutes until it thickens slightly. This step is essential for achieving a filling that isn’t too runny.
- Spread the vegetable mixture evenly in an 8x8 casserole dish or divide it into individual ramekins for a fun presentation. Ensure it’s well distributed so everyone gets a taste of the delightful filling.
- Now, top the veggie mixture with your creamy cauliflower puree. Spread it evenly over the top, ensuring it covers all edges to prevent burning. This is where the magic happens, so smooth it out to perfection!
- Bake in the preheated oven for about 25 minutes, or until heated throughout. To achieve a beautifully browned top, turn the broiler on high and broil for a few minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent it from burning. Alternatively, if you have a kitchen torch, this is the time to use it for an even toasting!
- Once done, remove the pie from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving hot. This dish is best enjoyed fresh and warm, with all those flavors mingling beautifully.
Notes
Leftover Veggie Shepherds Pie can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
You can freeze this dish after it has cooled completely. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil for up to three months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
This dish complements a simple green salad or garlic bread, both of which will balance the richness of the pie.
Feel free to use different vegetables based on your preference or what you have on hand. Sweet potatoes or butternut squash can also make great toppings!
If using a different size of the casserole dish, adjust the baking time accordingly, as a deeper dish may require longer to heat through.