Shepherd’s Pie

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🥧 Shepherd’s Pie – Full Recipe Guide

📖 Description

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort dish made with minced meat cooked in a savory gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked until golden. Traditionally made with lamb mince (beef version is technically called Cottage Pie), this dish is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for family meals.

⏱ Time Required

  • Prep Time: 25 minutes

  • Cook Time: 35 minutes

  • Total Time: 1 hour

🍽 Servings

Serves: 4–6 people

🛒 Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

  • 500g minced lamb (or beef)

  • 1 medium onion (finely chopped)

  • 2 cloves garlic (minced)

  • 1 cup carrots (diced)

  • ½ cup peas

  • 2 tbsp tomato paste

  • 1 cup beef or chicken stock

  • 1 tbsp flour

  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce (optional)

  • 1 tsp salt

  • ½ tsp black pepper

  • 1 tsp paprika

  • 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary

  • 2 tbsp oil

For Mashed Potato Topping:

  • 4 large potatoes (peeled & cubed)

  • 3 tbsp butter

  • ¼ cup milk or cream

  • ½ tsp salt

  • ¼ tsp black pepper

  • Optional: ½ cup grated cheese

👨‍🍳 Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Mashed Potatoes

  1. Boil potatoes in salted water until soft (15–18 min).

  2. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.

  3. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

  1. Heat oil in a pan.

  2. Add onion and cook until soft.

  3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.

  4. Add minced meat and cook until browned.

  5. Stir in flour and tomato paste.

  6. Add stock, peas, carrots, salt, pepper, paprika, and herbs.

  7. Simmer 10–12 minutes until thick.

Step 3: Assemble

  1. Spread meat filling in a baking dish.

  2. Top evenly with mashed potatoes.

  3. Use fork to create texture.

  4. Sprinkle cheese (optional).

Step 4: Bake

  • Bake at 200°C (400°F) for 25–30 minutes until golden.

📝 Notes

  • Lamb gives authentic Shepherd’s Pie flavor.

  • Beef makes it Cottage Pie.

  • Can be prepared ahead and refrigerated for 24 hours before baking.

  • Freezes well for up to 2 months.

⭐ Tips for Best Results

  • Use buttery creamy potatoes for smooth topping.

  • Let filling thicken properly to avoid watery pie.

  • Fork lines on top create crispy edges.

  • Add cheddar cheese for richer taste.

🧮 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx.)

  • Calories: 420 kcal

  • Protein: 25g

  • Carbohydrates: 35g

  • Fat: 20g

  • Fiber: 5g

  • Iron: 15% DV

  • Calcium: 10% DV

(Values vary depending on ingredients used.)

💪 Health Benefits

  • High Protein: Builds muscle and repairs tissues.

  • Rich in Iron: Supports healthy blood.

  • Good Energy Source: Potatoes provide long-lasting energy.

  • Balanced Meal: Includes protein, carbs, and vegetables.

  • Comfort Food: Improves mood and satisfaction.

❓ Q & A – Common Questions

Q1: Can I make it without oven?

Yes. Cook filling fully, add mashed potatoes on top, cover pan, and cook on low heat for 10–15 minutes.

Q2: Can I use chicken instead of lamb?

Yes, minced chicken works great and makes it lighter.

Q3: Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace meat with:

  • Lentils

  • Mushrooms

  • Mixed vegetables

Q4: How to store leftovers?

Store in airtight container in fridge for up to 3 days.

Q5: Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?

Yes. Freeze before baking or after baking for up to 2 months.

🌟 Variations

  • Cheesy Shepherd’s Pie

  • Spicy Masala Shepherd’s Pie (Pakistani Style)

  • Vegetarian Lentil Shepherd’s Pie

  • Chicken Shepherd’s Pie

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