Shepherd’s Pie

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Shepherd’s Pie

Description:
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic British comfort dish made with a savory filling of ground meat (traditionally lamb) and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. It’s hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family dinners, especially in colder months.

Ingredients

For the Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

  • 1 large onion, finely chopped

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 medium carrots, diced

  • 2 celery stalks, diced

  • 1 cup frozen peas

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth

  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

  • 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

  • ¼ cup milk (or cream for richer taste)

  • 3 tablespoons butter

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

  • Optional: ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese for topping

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes, until tender.

  2. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.

Step 2: Make the Filling

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

  2. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.

  3. Add ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.

  4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme.

  5. Pour in the broth and simmer for 10 minutes, letting it thicken.

  6. Add peas, season with salt and pepper, and cook for another 2 minutes.

Step 3: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Spread the meat and vegetable filling evenly in a baking dish.

  3. Spoon mashed potatoes over the top, spreading to cover completely. Use a fork to create a textured surface (helps browning).

  4. Optional: Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top for extra flavor.

Step 4: Bake

  1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and slightly crisp.

  2. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Serving Size

  • Servings: 4–6

Nutritional Information (Approximate per Serving)

  • Calories: 450–500 kcal

  • Protein: 25 g

  • Carbohydrates: 35 g

  • Fat: 25 g

  • Fiber: 5 g

  • Sodium: 600 mg

Benefits

  • High in protein and iron from lamb.

  • Contains fiber and vitamins from vegetables.

  • Comforting, filling, and energizing for colder weather.

Tips & Notes

  • Meat choice: Traditional Shepherd’s Pie uses lamb. If using beef, it’s called Cottage Pie.

  • Vegetable variations: Add corn, mushrooms, or parsnips for more nutrition and flavor.

  • Mashed potato topping: Use a bit of cream and butter for extra creaminess.

  • Make ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate; bake when ready.

  • Leftovers: Store in an airtight container for 3–4 days. Reheat in the oven to keep topping crisp.

Q&A for Shepherd’s Pie

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Yes! Replace the meat with lentils, mushrooms, or a meat substitute. Use vegetable broth for the sauce.

Q: Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
A: Absolutely. Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Bake from frozen at 375°F (190°C) for 45–60 minutes.

Q: How do I get a crispy top?
A: Brush mashed potatoes with a little melted butter and use a fork to create peaks before baking. Cheese on top also browns nicely.

Q: Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
A: Yes! Sweet potatoes add a natural sweetness and extra vitamins.

Q: How to thicken the filling if too watery?
A: Mix 1 teaspoon of cornstarch with 1 tablespoon of cold water and stir into the simmering filling until thickened.

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