Easy Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

ByBiteFeul

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food dish that originated in the United Kingdom. It is traditionally made with lamb mince (hence the name “Shepherd’s Pie”), while a similar dish made with beef mince is called “Cottage Pie.” Both versions consist of a layer of cooked meat and vegetables topped with a layer of mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. This hearty dish is perfect for cold winter nights or special occasions like St. Patrick’s Day.

Key Components

  • Meat Filling: This can be made with either ground lamb or beef, mixed with sautéed onions, garlic, and sometimes additional vegetables like carrots and celery. The mixture is seasoned with herbs and spices, and a rich gravy is created using broth and tomato paste.
  • Potato Topping: Mashed potatoes are the crowning glory of Shepherd’s Pie. They are typically made with butter, milk, and sometimes additional ingredients like parmesan cheese for extra flavor.

Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Here’s a simple recipe to make a delicious Shepherd’s Pie:

Ingredients

For the Potato Topping:

  • 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1/2 cup milk or half-and-half
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup parmesan cheese, shredded (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Meat Filling:

  • 1 lb ground lamb or beef
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen mixed peas and carrots
  • 1 cup beef broth (or lamb broth if using lamb)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes:
    • Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15 minutes.
    • Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. If using parmesan, stir it in at this stage.
  2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
    • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
    • Add the ground lamb or beef and cook, breaking it up with a spatula, until it is no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture and cook for 1 minute.
    • Add the broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well to combine.
    • Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
    • Stir in the frozen peas and carrots.
  3. Assemble and Bake:
    • Transfer the meat mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
    • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meat mixture.
    • Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the surface of the potatoes.
    • Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is hot and bubbly.

Pro Tips

  • Use High-Quality Ingredients: Fresh herbs like thyme and rosemary add a lot of flavor to the dish.
  • Don’t Overmix the Potatoes: This can make them gluey and unappetizing.
  • Let it Rest: After baking, let the Shepherd’s Pie rest for about 10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling to set and makes it easier to serve.
  • Customize to Taste: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced carrots or celery to the meat mixture for added flavor and nutrition.
  • Make Ahead: You can assemble the Shepherd’s Pie up to a day in advance and refrigerate it until baking time. This is great for busy days or special occasions.

Variations

  • Vegan Version: Substitute the ground meat with sautéed mushrooms and lentils, and use vegan butter and non-dairy milk for the potatoes.
  • Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free flour in place of regular flour.
  • Sweet Potato Topping: Replace regular potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a different twist.

Shepherd’s Pie is a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit various tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family meal or a dish to impress guests, this recipe is sure to please.

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