Here’s a classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe — rich, comforting, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes.
🥧 Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the Filling
- 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour (optional, for thickening)
- ½ cup beef or chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping
- 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Cook the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (15–20 minutes).
- Drain and mash with butter and milk until smooth. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, garlic, and carrots; cook 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and flour.
- Pour in broth and simmer 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in frozen peas and adjust seasoning.
3️⃣ Assemble the Pie
- Spread the meat and vegetable mixture in a 9×9-inch baking dish.
- Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and smooth evenly.
- Optional: sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.
4️⃣ Bake
- Bake 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbly.
5️⃣ Serve
- Let cool 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with a side salad or steamed vegetables.
Tips & Variations
- Vegetables: Add corn, green beans, or mushrooms for extra flavor.
- Crispy topping: Brush mashed potatoes with melted butter for a golden crust.
- Make-ahead: Prepare filling and potatoes ahead; assemble and bake when ready.
- Slow cooker: Cook filling in a slow cooker, then top with mashed potatoes and broil briefly for a golden finish.
I can also give a vegetarian version using lentils and mushrooms instead of meat — it’s just as hearty.
Do you want that version?
