Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved comfort food that has stood the test of time. Originating in the United Kingdom, this dish consists of a rich and savory meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights in.

History of Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie dates back to the late 18th and early 19th centuries in Britain and Ireland. It was originally created as a way to use up leftover roasted meat, which was minced and combined with vegetables before being topped with mashed potatoes. Traditionally, Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, whereas a similar dish called Cottage Pie is made with beef.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic Shepherd’s Pie:

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or ½ teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary (or ½ teaspoon dried rosemary)
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 tablespoons butter
• ½ cup milk (or cream for extra richness)
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in the cheese if using. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the ground lamb (or beef) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon.
5. Drain any excess fat, then stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.
6. Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for about 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
7. Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
3. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the meat filling, smoothing it out with a spatula.
4. Use a fork to create ridges on the potato topping for a crispy texture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
6. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Variations and Tips

• Cheesy Crust: Sprinkle additional shredded cheese on top before baking for a delicious cheesy crust.
• Vegetarian Option: Substitute lentils or plant-based ground meat for a meat-free version.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure the Worcestershire sauce and beef broth are gluten-free if needed.
• Make-Ahead: Assemble the pie in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking.
• Freezing: Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw before reheating.

Serving Suggestions

Shepherd’s Pie pairs well with a side of crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you stick to the traditional recipe or customize it to your taste, this hearty meal is sure to be a crowd-pleaser!

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