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:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the carrot and cook for 5 minutes, until slightly tender. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- 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.
- 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:
- While the filling cooks, boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and mash.
- 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:
- 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.
- Sprinkle with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
Serve:
- Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before serving. Pair with a fresh green salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.