Classic Comfort Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Classic Comfort: Perfect Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

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Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless comfort dish, featuring a flavorful ground meat filling layered with vegetables and crowned with a creamy, golden mashed potato topping. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this hearty classic brings warmth and satisfaction to the table with every bite.

Ingredients:

For the Filling:

  • 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas (or fresh)
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary (or 2 teaspoons fresh)
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/4 cup milk or cream (more as needed)
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions:

Prepare the Filling:

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
  2. Add ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  3. Stir in the carrot and cook for 5 minutes, until slightly tender. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  4. Pour in the broth and bring to a simmer. If needed, stir in the flour to thicken the sauce. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  5. Add peas, mix well, and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and transfer the mixture to a baking dish.

Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping:

  1. While the filling cooks, boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash.
  2. Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper to the mashed potatoes. Mix until smooth and creamy. Adjust milk to achieve your preferred consistency.

Assemble and Bake:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture in the baking dish. Use a fork to create a textured surface for browning.
  2. Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
  3. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.

Serve:

  1. Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

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