Shepherd's Pie
Discover this easy and comforting shepherd's pie recipe with a savory filling and creamy mashed potatoes—perfect for a hearty family meal!
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb ground lamb or substitute with ground beef for a milder flavor
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for sautéing
- 1 small onion finely diced (adds depth of flavor)
- 2 cloves garlic minced (enhances the savory taste)
- 1 cup carrots diced (adds sweetness and texture)
- ¾ cup frozen peas for a pop of color and natural sweetness
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste deepens the richness of the filling
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce adds a signature umami boost
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or use fresh for extra fragrance
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary for earthy warmth
- 1 cup beef broth keeps the filling juicy and flavorful
- Salt and black pepper to taste (essential for balancing flavors)
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes peeled and cubed (ideal for a fluffy, creamy texture)
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter adds richness
- ½ cup whole milk or use cream for extra decadence
- ¼ cup sour cream for a tangy, creamy finish
- ½ teaspoon salt enhances the natural flavors of the potatoes
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper adds a hint of warmth
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese optional (for a golden, crispy topping)
A Few Ingredient Notes & Substitutions:
- Lamb vs. Beef: Traditional shepherd’s pie is made with ground lamb but ground beef is a delicious alternative and often more accessible.
- Vegetable Variations: Swap peas and carrots for mushrooms corn, or green beans based on preference.
Dairy-Free Option: Use plant-based butter and milk alternatives for a dairy-free version.
Instructions
Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- The key to a perfect shepherd’s pie is a creamy topping, and it starts with mashed potatoes. Here’s how:
- Peel and chop the potatoes into even-sized pieces to ensure they cook uniformly.
- Boil in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, or until a fork easily pierces them.
- Drain and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, and salt to taste. Mash until smooth, then set aside to cool slightly.
Cook the Meat Filling
- While the potatoes are cooking, let's focus on the meat filling. You can use ground lamb, beef, or a plant-based alternative. Here’s how:
- Brown the meat in a large skillet over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Drain any excess fat, then add onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, then add the beef broth and herbs (thyme, rosemary, and a pinch of salt and pepper). Let it simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens.
Assemble the Shepherd's Pie
- Now comes the fun part—assembling the dish!
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish (about 9x13 inches).
- Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly with a spatula. Use a fork to create texture on the surface, which will crisp up beautifully when baked.
- Dot the top with a little extra butter for added richness.
Bake to Perfection
- Place the assembled shepherd’s pie in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
- For an extra crispy finish, broil the top for an additional 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.
Let it Cool and Serve
- After baking, let the shepherd’s pie sit for about 5-10 minutes to cool slightly and allow the flavors to meld. This step will help it hold its shape when you slice it.
Notes
Nutrition Information
(per serving)- Calories: 450
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
- Sodium: 650mg
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 22g