Shepherd’s pie

🥧 Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a hearty, savory casserole made with seasoned ground meat (traditionally lamb), vegetables, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a classic comfort food popular in British and Irish cuisine.

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📝 Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe (Serves 4–6)

Ingredients

Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme or rosemary
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter

Mashed Potato Topping

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup milk or cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: ¼ cup grated cheddar cheese

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👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes.
2. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until creamy.
3. Set aside.

2️⃣ Make the Filling

1. Heat oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until softened.
3. Add ground meat and cook until browned.
4. Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Simmer 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in peas at the end.

3️⃣ Assemble the Pie

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread meat and vegetable mixture in a baking dish.
3. Top evenly with mashed potatoes.
4. Optional: sprinkle cheddar cheese on top.

4️⃣ Bake

• Bake 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.

5️⃣ Serve

• Let rest 5 minutes before serving.

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🔥 Tips

• For extra flavor, add a splash of cream or a dollop of butter to the mashed potatoes.
• Use lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie, or beef for “cottage pie.”
• Top with a fork pattern in the mashed potatoes for a golden crust.
• Make ahead: assemble and refrigerate; bake before serving.

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🍽️ Serving Ideas

• Serve with steamed green beans or roasted vegetables.
• Pair with a fresh side salad for a lighter meal.
• Leftovers reheat well in the oven or microwave.

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I can also provide a slow-cooker shepherd’s pie or a vegetarian version with lentils and mushrooms if you want an alternative.

Do you want the vegetarian version?