Classic Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Shepherd's Pie is a traditional British dish that combines seasoned ground lamb, mixed vegetables, and a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty and comforting meal is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a delicious blend of flavours and textures.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

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

For the Mashed Potatoes:

• 1kg potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 4 tablespoons butter
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

For the Filling:

1. Preheat Oven:

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

2. Cook Vegetables:

   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrots, cooking until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

3. Cook Ground Lamb:

   • Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if necessary.

4. Add Seasoning and Liquids:

   • Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Pour in the beef or lamb broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavours to meld together. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

5. Transfer to Baking Dish:

   • Spoon the lamb and vegetable mixture into an even layer in a large baking dish.

For the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil Potatoes:

   • Place the cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.

2. Mash Potatoes:

   • In the same pot, add the drained potatoes, milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

3. Top the Filling:

   • Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the lamb and vegetable filling in the baking dish. Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the top.

Bake the Shepherd's Pie:

1. Bake:

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

2. Cool Slightly:

   • Let the Shepherd's Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips for Making Shepherd's Pie

• Meat Variations: Substitute ground beef for lamb to make Cottage Pie. You can also use a mix of both for a unique flavour.

• Vegetable Mix: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or mushrooms to the filling.

• Make Ahead: Prepare the pie ahead of time and refrigerate before baking. Increase the baking time by 10 minutes if baking from cold.

Serving Suggestions

• With a Side Salad: Serve Shepherd's Pie with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.

• Bread: Pair with crusty bread to soak up the delicious gravy.

• Pickles: Serve with pickles or chutney for a tangy contrast.

FAQs

What is the difference between Shepherd's Pie and Cottage Pie? Shepherd's Pie traditionally uses ground lamb, while Cottage Pie is made with ground beef.

Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie? Yes, you can freeze Shepherd's Pie. After assembling, wrap tightly and freeze. To cook, bake from frozen at 180°C (350°F) for about 1 hour.

How do I store leftovers? Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes? Yes, sweet potatoes can be used for a different flavour and nutritional profile.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian? Yes, substitute the meat with lentils or a meat substitute and use vegetable broth.

What other herbs can I use? You can use herbs like parsley, oregano, or bay leaves for additional flavour.

Conclusion

Shepherd's Pie is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings warmth and joy to the table. With its rich filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it's a timeless recipe that's perfect for family dinners and special occasions. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious classic!

Savour the hearty flavours of Shepherd's Pie, a timeless dish that's perfect for any family meal!