Shepherd’s Pie is a classic British dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in. It’s a hearty combination of tender lamb, savory vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. This recipe offers a modern twist on a timeless classic, using fresh ingredients and simple techniques.
Ingredients:
For the Filling:
- 1 lb ground lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup beef broth
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
- Sauté the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Brown the Lamb: Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in the garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
- Simmer and Thicken: Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Reduce heat and let simmer until the liquid has thickened, about 15-20 minutes.
Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping:
- Boil the Potatoes: Boil the cubed potatoes in a large pot of salted water until tender. Drain well.
- Mash the Potatoes: Mash the potatoes with a potato masher or a ricer.
- Add Milk and Butter: Gradually add the warm milk and butter to the mashed potatoes, stirring until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Assemble and Bake:
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Transfer Filling: Transfer the lamb mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
- Top with Mashed Potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the lamb mixture.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
Serve: Let the Shepherd’s Pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy hot with your favorite side dishes, such as roasted vegetables or a green salad.