Description

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food featuring a flavorful ground beef or lamb filling mixed with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked to golden perfection. This hearty dish combines the richness of savory meat, the sweetness of carrots and peas, and the comforting texture of buttery mashed potatoes, making it a perfect meal for family dinners or cozy nights in.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat and Vegetable Filling

1 pound (450 g) ground beef or lamb
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 cup (240 ml) chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup (150 g) diced carrots
1 cup (150 g) frozen green peas
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1/2 cup (120 ml) beef broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Mashed Potato Topping

2 cups (475 g) prepared mashed potatoes
2 tablespoons butter (for the mash)
1/4 cup (60 ml) milk (for the mash)

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C): Begin by heating your oven to ensure the Shepherd’s Pie cooks evenly and develops a golden crust. Allow 10-15 minutes if your oven lacks a temperature indicator.
Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking for 4-5 minutes until soft and translucent to build the flavor base for the pie.
Brown the meat: Add ground beef or lamb to the skillet, breaking it up as it cooks. Cook for 7-8 minutes until browned and no longer pink. Drain excess fat if needed to avoid a greasy filling.
Add vegetables and simmer: Stir in diced carrots. Then add frozen peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Make the mashed potatoes: While the filling simmers, mash the cooked potatoes with butter and warm milk until smooth and creamy. Use a hand mixer for extra creaminess if desired, and season with salt.
Assemble the pie: Transfer the meat and vegetable mixture into an 8×8 inch baking dish, spreading evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing the surface. Optionally, use a fork to create textured ridges for better browning.
Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes until edges bubble and the top turns golden. For extra crispiness, broil for 2 minutes—watch carefully to prevent burning.
Rest before serving: Remove from the oven and let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for 5 minutes to set. Serve warm and enjoy the comforting layers.

Notes

Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef or lamb for a lighter option.
Swap peas for corn or green beans depending on preference or availability.
Use instant mashed potatoes to save time while maintaining flavor.
No Worcestershire sauce? Mix soy sauce with a splash of balsamic vinegar as a replacement.
For dairy sensitivities, use plant-based or lactose-free milk alternatives.
Run a fork over the mashed potato topping before baking for a better browned crust.
Prepare the pie ahead and refrigerate until ready to bake for convenience.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British/Irish

Keywords: Shepherd’s Pie, Cottage Pie, ground beef recipe, lamb recipe, comfort food, baked casserole, mashed potato topping