Shepherd’s Pie Recipe: A Comforting Classic
Shepherd’s Pie, a traditional British dish, brings together savory meat and creamy mashed potatoes into a hearty, satisfying meal.
Ground lamb, sautéed vegetables, and a flavorful sauce form the base, while buttery mashed potatoes create a golden, crispy topping.
For those preferring beef, this version transforms into a Cottage Pie, offering flexibility to suit your taste.
Easy to prepare and perfect for make-ahead meals, this recipe is ideal for cozy family dinners or gatherings. Pair it with a crisp green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal that embodies comfort food at its best.
Ingredients:
1 lb. ground lamb (or beef, for Cottage Pie)
1 onion, chopped.
2 carrots, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup frozen peas.
2 tbsp tomato paste
1 cup beef or chicken broth
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce.
1 tsp thyme
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 lbs. potatoes, peeled and cubed.
4 tbsp butter
1/2 cup milk
1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded (optional).
Instructions:
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes.
While the potatoes are cooking, sauté the onion, carrots, and garlic in a large pan until the onions are translucent.
Add the ground lamb (or beef) and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
Stir in the tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
Mash the boiled potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Place the meat mixture in a baking dish.
Spread the mashed potatoes on top. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese if using.
Bake for about 20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
Let it cool slightly before serving.
Variations and Tips for Shepherd’s Pie
Variations:
Vegetarian Version: Replace the meat with a mix of lentils, mushrooms, and finely chopped vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers. Use vegetable broth for the sauce.
Sweet Potato Topping: Swap regular mashed potatoes for sweet potato mash for a sweeter, nutrient-rich twist.
Cheesy Topping: Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan directly into the mashed potatoes or sprinkle a generous layer over the top before baking.
Herbed Potatoes: Add fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or rosemary to the mashed potatoes for extra flavor.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the meat mixture for some heat.
Gravy-Like Sauce: For a richer filling, add a tablespoon of flour to the meat mixture and simmer with extra broth to create a thicker gravy.
Single-Serve Portions: Use ramekins or muffin tins to create individual portions, perfect for freezing or serving at dinner parties.
Additional Veggies: Incorporate parsnips, corn, green beans, or leeks into the filling for added variety.
