Here’s a recipe for a classic Shepherd’s Pie, a comforting and hearty dish made with ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes. It’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients:
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (traditional for Shepherd’s Pie) or ground beef (for Cottage Pie)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1/2 cup corn (optional)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth (or lamb broth if using lamb)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
For the Mashed Potatoes:
- 4 large potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk (more if needed)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for topping)
Instructions:
1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the cubed potatoes. Cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Filling:
- In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground lamb or beef to the pan. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes to caramelize it.
- Add the beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary (if using), and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
- Add the peas, carrots, and corn (if using). Stir to combine and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the vegetables are tender. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a baking dish (around 9×9 inches or similar), spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly on the bottom.
- Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them out with a spatula to cover the filling completely. Use a fork to make a decorative pattern on top of the potatoes (optional).
- If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top for a golden, cheesy crust.
4. Bake:
- Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crispy. You can broil it for an additional 2-3 minutes if you want the top to be extra crispy.
5. Serve:
- Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Slice it into squares and serve hot.
Tips:
- Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables like mushrooms, green beans, or parsnips.
- Make Ahead: Shepherd’s Pie can be made ahead of time. Assemble it, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking. Just increase the baking time slightly if you’re baking from cold.
- Ground Meat Variations: For a leaner option, use ground turkey or chicken, though it’s less traditional.
- Leftovers: Shepherd’s Pie tastes great the next day, and the flavors only get better as they sit.
This Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food—creamy mashed potatoes on top of a savory meat and vegetable filling. Perfect for dinner on a chilly night!