Introduction

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food that originated in the United Kingdom and Ireland. Traditionally made with minced lamb, it features a savory meat and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, baked until golden and crisp. It’s a hearty, wholesome dish perfect for family meals or cozy gatherings.

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth (or lamb stock)
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh sprigs)
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
• ½ cup milk (warm)
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

🍴 Instructions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Boil potatoes until tender, drain, and mash with butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese if desired and set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Filling: Heat oil in a skillet, sauté onion, carrots, and garlic. Add ground lamb, cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, pepper, and broth. Simmer until thickened, then add peas.
3. Assemble the Pie: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread meat filling in a baking dish, top with mashed potatoes, and create ridges with a fork.
4. Bake: Bake 20–25 minutes until golden. Broil 2–3 minutes for extra crispness.
5. Serve: Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

Description

This Shepherd’s Pie combines a rich lamb filling with creamy mashed potatoes, baked into a golden crust. Perfectly hearty and comforting, it’s a dish the whole family will love.

Tips

• Make Ahead: Prepare in advance, refrigerate, and bake when ready.
• Healthier Version: Use sweet potato or cauliflower mash instead of regular potatoes.
• Extra Flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the meat filling.
• Texture Boost: Sprinkle cheese or breadcrumbs on top before baking.

Correction

Many people call the beef version “Shepherd’s Pie,” but traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie uses lamb. The beef version is actually called Cottage Pie.

Enjoy

Serve with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal!