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Delicious Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Comfort Food at Its Best

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Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food dish featuring a savory ground meat and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, baked until golden and bubbly. This hearty meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, offering layers of flavor and texture in every bite. Traditionally made with lamb, this versatile dish can also use beef for a delicious twist.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb ground lamb (or ground beef)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn
  • 1 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 tsp dried thyme)
  • 1 tsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried rosemary)
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • 4 large russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling:
    • Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground lamb (or beef) and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain any excess fat.
    • Add the chopped onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
    • Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen the flavor.
    • Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Bring to a simmer.
    • If the mixture is too thin, stir in the flour and cook for another 2-3 minutes to thicken.
    • Stir in the frozen peas and corn. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
  2. Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping:
    • Boil the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
    • Mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
    • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
    • Spread the meat and vegetable filling evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
    • Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling, spreading them evenly. Use a fork to create decorative ridges on top.
    • If desired, sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top for added flavor.
  4. Bake the Pie:
    • Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  5. Serve:
    • Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy warm with a side salad or crusty bread.

Notes

  • For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
  • Shepherd’s Pie can be prepared ahead of time and refrigerated before baking. Increase the baking time by 10 minutes if baking from cold.
  • This dish freezes well; reheat in the oven until warmed through.

Keywords: Shepherd’s Pie, classic shepherd’s pie recipe, lamb shepherd’s pie, beef shepherd’s pie, mashed potato pie, hearty dinner recipe, comfort food, British pie recipe, easy casserole recipe

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