Classic Shepherd’s Pie – Hearty Comfort Food
Shepherd's Pie is a classic comfort dish that combines savory ground meat, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. This hearty meal is easy to make and perfect for a cozy family dinner. It's a great way to use up leftovers, and you can customize it to fit your taste by using different meats or adding extra veggies. Let’s dive into making this delicious Shepherd's Pie that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared separately)
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Prepare the filling. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and carrots, cooking for about 5 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
Cook the meat. Add ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet, breaking it apart as it cooks. Brown the meat for 6-8 minutes, then drain excess fat.
Add flavor. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
Simmer. Pour in beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly. Stir in the peas and remove from heat.
Assemble. Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading them evenly with a spatula. For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Bake. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Recipe tips
For creamier mashed potatoes, use warm milk and butter when mashing. Add a splash of red wine to the meat mixture for a deeper flavor. Swap out lamb for turkey or beef to change up the recipe. To make the mashed potatoes extra fluffy, whip them with a hand mixer.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
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