Classic Shepherd’s Pie (Traditional Comfort Food)

🥧 Classic Shepherd’s Pie (Traditional Comfort Food)

Description

Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, traditional dish made with seasoned ground lamb, vegetables, and rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. It’s cozy, filling, and perfect for family dinners or meal prep. (Fun fact: when made with lamb, it’s truly Shepherd’s Pie!)

🛒 Ingredients

• 1 lb ground lamb
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook ground lamb until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
3. Add onion and garlic; sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Add beef broth and peas and carrots. Simmer 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Transfer meat mixture to a greased baking dish.
7. Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top.
8. Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top (optional).
9. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until bubbly and lightly golden.
10. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

🍽 Servings

Serves: 4–6 people

🧠 Tips for Best Results

• For extra flavor, mash potatoes with butter and a splash of milk or cream.
• Use a fork to create ridges in the potatoes for crispier edges.
• Let the filling cool slightly before topping to keep layers neat.
• Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for a golden top (watch closely).