Australian Pie Recipe Vegetarian Ideas for Easy Meals

Updated On: October 5, 2025

Australian meat pies are a beloved classic, packed with rich flavors and a comforting golden crust. But what if you’re vegetarian or just want to try a delicious meat-free alternative?

This vegetarian Australian pie recipe is here to satisfy your cravings with hearty vegetables, savory herbs, and a perfectly flaky pastry. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner or looking for a wholesome lunch, this pie delivers the quintessential Aussie pie experience without the meat.

It’s easy to prepare, full of nutritious ingredients, and sure to impress family and friends alike.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step of making this vegetarian pie. From selecting fresh produce to crafting a golden crust, you’ll discover how simple and rewarding homemade pies can be.

Plus, I’ll share tips, variations, and serving ideas to make this recipe your new favorite comfort food. Let’s dive in and bring a taste of Australia to your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian Australian pie recipe offers a fantastic alternative to the traditional meat-filled version, without compromising on flavor or texture. It’s packed with a medley of vegetables like mushrooms, carrots, and peas that provide a rich, savory filling.

The flaky, buttery pastry perfectly complements the hearty filling, creating a satisfying and comforting meal. Plus, it’s versatile and can easily be adapted to your taste or dietary preferences.

Whether you’re a vegetarian, vegan (with some adjustments), or just looking to add more plant-based meals to your menu, this pie is a winner.

Additionally, it’s a great way to enjoy a classic Aussie staple while sneaking in extra veggies. It works well for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep.

Once you try this, you’ll want to make it again and again!

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup button mushrooms, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup cooked lentils (brown or green)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce or tamari for depth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 sheets puff pastry (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 egg (for egg wash, optional; substitute with plant milk for vegan)

Equipment

  • Large frying pan or skillet
  • Mixing bowl
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Pie dish or individual pie tins
  • Rolling pin (if using homemade pastry)
  • Brush for egg wash
  • Oven
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Instructions

  1. Prepare the vegetables: Wash, peel, and dice the carrots and potatoes. Chop the mushrooms finely. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.
  2. Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, cooking for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
  3. Add the vegetables: Stir in the carrots, potatoes, and mushrooms. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
  4. Add flavorings: Mix in the tomato paste, dried thyme, rosemary, and soy sauce. Stir well to coat the veggies.
  5. Add lentils and broth: Add the cooked lentils and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly and the vegetables are tender.
  6. Stir in peas and season: Add frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat and allow the filling to cool slightly.
  7. Preheat your oven: Set your oven to 200°C (400°F) and prepare your pie dish by lightly greasing it if needed.
  8. Assemble the pie: Roll out one sheet of puff pastry and place it into your pie dish, pressing gently to cover the base and sides. Spoon the filling evenly into the pastry shell.
  9. Cover with top pastry: Place the second sheet of puff pastry over the filling. Trim any excess pastry and crimp the edges to seal the pie.
  10. Add vents and egg wash: Cut small slits in the top crust to allow steam to escape. Brush the pie with beaten egg or plant milk for a golden finish.
  11. Bake the pie: Place the pie in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is puffed and golden brown.
  12. Cool and serve: Allow the pie to cool for 5-10 minutes before slicing. Serve warm for the best taste.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra boost of flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce (make sure it’s vegetarian) or a pinch of smoked paprika to the filling.”

  • Vegan option: Use a plant-based puff pastry and substitute the egg wash with almond milk or soy milk.
  • Additional veggies: Feel free to add diced zucchini, corn, or sweet potato for a different twist.
  • Cheesy filling: Stir in some shredded vegetarian cheese into the filling for a creamy texture.
  • Make mini pies: Use muffin tins to create individual-sized pies—perfect for parties or lunchboxes.
  • Make it gluten-free: Use gluten-free puff pastry and check all sauces and broths for gluten content.

Nutrition Facts

Nutrient Amount per serving
Calories 350 kcal
Protein 12 g
Fat 15 g
Carbohydrates 40 g
Fiber 8 g
Sodium 450 mg

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian Australian pie pairs beautifully with traditional sides like mashed potatoes or a crisp garden salad. For a classic Aussie touch, serve it alongside some mushy peas or a tangy tomato sauce.

For a lighter meal, enjoy a single slice with steamed greens or roasted vegetables. Leftovers can be reheated easily and make fantastic lunchbox treats.

If you’re feeling indulgent, a dollop of sour cream or vegan yogurt on the side adds creaminess and contrast.

Don’t forget to check out my other recipes for delicious bread and pastries that complement this pie perfectly, like the Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe or the sweet treat of a Glazed Twist Donut Recipe.

For a comforting dessert, try the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe.

Conclusion

Making a vegetarian Australian pie at home is a rewarding and delicious way to enjoy a traditional comfort food with a healthy twist. This recipe balances hearty vegetables, flavorful herbs, and a golden, flaky crust to create a satisfying meal for any occasion.

It’s perfect for vegetarians, flexitarians, or anyone looking to add more plant-based dishes to their repertoire.

With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you’ll have a pie that’s both nourishing and tasty. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or packing it for lunch, this pie is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.

Give it a try and experience the warmth and flavor of an Aussie classic, reinvented for the vegetarian palate!

📖 Recipe Card: Australian Vegetarian Pie

Description: A hearty and delicious Australian-style vegetarian pie filled with mixed vegetables and savory spices. Perfect for a comforting meal any time of the year.

Prep Time: PT20M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT60M

Servings: 6 servings

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup mushrooms, chopped
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup canned lentils, drained and rinsed
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce (vegetarian)
  • 1 sheet frozen puff pastry, thawed
  • 1 tablespoon flour
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 200°C (390°F).
  2. Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
  3. Sauté onion and garlic until soft.
  4. Add carrots and mushrooms, cook for 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in peas, lentils, tomato paste, and thyme.
  6. Sprinkle flour and cook for 1 minute while stirring.
  7. Gradually add vegetable broth and Worcestershire sauce.
  8. Simmer until thickened, about 10 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
  9. Transfer filling to a pie dish and cover with puff pastry.
  10. Trim edges and make small slits on top for steam to escape.
  11. Bake for 25-30 minutes until pastry is golden brown.
  12. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Nutrition: Calories: 320 kcal | Protein: 12 g | Fat: 14 g | Carbs: 38 g

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Marta K

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