Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie is the quintessential comfort food, known for its hearty and satisfying qualities. This classic dish features a deliciously savoury meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, creating a perfect blend of flavours and textures. Originating from the UK, Shepherd’s Pie is traditionally made with lamb, but variations with beef are also popular. This recipe offers a rich and flavourful take on the classic, combining tender meat, vegetables, and a fluffy potato topping for a meal that’s sure to please the entire family. Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or a cozy weeknight dinner, Shepherd’s Pie delivers warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

Ingredients for Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

For the Filling:

• 500g (1 lb) ground lamb (or beef for a Cottage Pie)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup beef or lamb broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Preheat the Oven

   • Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

   • Boil the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot.
   • Mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.

3. Cook the Meat Filling

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil 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 and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
   • Stir in the diced carrots, frozen peas, beef or lamb broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer for about 10 minutes, until the mixture is thickened. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

4. Assemble the Pie

   • Transfer the meat filling to a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top, smoothing with a spatula.

5. Bake

   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

6. Serve

   • Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
• Total Time: 50-55 minutes

Servings

This recipe serves approximately 4-6 people.

FAQs for Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Q: Can I use ground beef instead of lamb? A: Yes, using ground beef makes it a Cottage Pie, which is just as delicious.

Q: Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time? A: Yes, you can prepare it a day in advance. Store it in the refrigerator and bake it when ready to serve. You may need to adjust the baking time.

Q: Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie? A: Yes, Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Freeze it after baking, and reheat it thoroughly in the oven before serving.

Q: What can I use instead of potatoes for a low-carb version? A: You can use mashed cauliflower or sweet potatoes as a substitute for the traditional mashed potatoes.

Q: How can I make the mashed potatoes extra creamy? A: Use cream instead of milk and add extra butter for a richer texture.

Conclusion

Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless dish that combines comfort and flavour in a delightful way. With its hearty meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a meal that satisfies both the stomach and the soul. This recipe simplifies the classic dish while delivering all the deliciousness you expect. It’s perfect for family dinners or any occasion that calls for a warm and comforting meal. The blend of tender meat, vegetables, and fluffy mashed potatoes creates a dish that’s both wholesome and indulgent. Try this Shepherd’s Pie recipe and enjoy a comforting meal that will quickly become a family favourite.