why make this recipe
Shepherd's Pie is the perfect comfort food, ideal for cozy dinners and gatherings. With its savory filling of meat and veggies topped with creamy mashed potatoes, it warms you from the inside out. This dish is not only delicious but also simple to make, making it perfect for weeknight meals or a special occasion.
how to make Shepherd's Pie
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs Russet potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk or cream
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- Fresh thyme and rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the chopped onions and diced carrots until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Increase heat, then add the ground meat. Cook until browned, which takes around 6–8 minutes.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and frozen peas; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Drain the boiled potatoes, then mash them with butter and milk until creamy. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Layer the meat mixture in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, creating peaks.
- Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
how to serve Shepherd's Pie
Serve Shepherd's Pie hot from the oven. It's great on its own, but you can also pair it with a simple side salad or some crusty bread. For extra flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top before serving.
how to store Shepherd's Pie
Allow any leftovers to cool completely. Store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. If you want to freeze it, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap, and then in aluminum foil. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
tips to make Shepherd's Pie
- Make sure to season your meat well for the best flavor.
- Use a potato masher for creamy mashed potatoes, avoiding lumps.
- Feel free to add other veggies like corn or green beans for variety.
- You can use leftover cooked meat and veggies to save time.
variation
If you want to make a vegetarian Shepherd's Pie, you can substitute the meat with lentils or a mix of mushrooms and beans. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it plant-based.
FAQs
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of Russet potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes make a delicious alternative that adds a different flavor and sweetness to your Shepherd's Pie.
Can Shepherd's Pie be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it in advance, assemble it, and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.
How do I know when it's done baking?
It's done when the top is golden brown, and you can see bubbling around the edges. A knife inserted in the center should come out hot.
Shepherd's Pie
Ingredients
Method
- Boil chopped potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
- In a skillet, melt butter and sauté the chopped onions and diced carrots until soft.
- Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Increase heat, then add the ground meat. Cook until browned, which takes around 6–8 minutes.
- Stir in Worcestershire sauce, seasonings, and frozen peas; cook for an additional 5 minutes.
- Drain the boiled potatoes, then mash them with butter and milk until creamy. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
- Layer the meat mixture in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, creating peaks.
- Bake in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown.
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