Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground lamb or beef (traditionally lamb for shepherd’s pie, beef for cottage pie)
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 1/2 cup corn kernels (optional)
• 1 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme or rosemary (optional)

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (for topping)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Prepare the Meat Filling:
   • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground lamb or beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
   • Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until the onion is soft and translucent.
   • Stir in the carrots, peas, and corn (if using), cooking for a few minutes until they start to soften.
   • Add the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, stirring well to incorporate.
   • Pour in the broth, season with salt, pepper, and fresh herbs if using, and let the mixture simmer until the liquid reduces and thickens slightly (about 5–7 minutes).
3. Prepare the Mashed Potato Topping:
   • While the meat filling is cooking, boil the diced potatoes in a pot of salted water until they are fork-tender (about 15–20 minutes).
   • Drain the potatoes and mash them with the butter, milk or cream, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
   • Spread the meat filling evenly in the bottom of a baking dish.
   • Spoon or pipe the mashed potatoes over the top of the meat filling, smoothing it out with a spatula or creating peaks with a fork for added texture.
   • Sprinkle the grated cheese over the mashed potatoes.
5. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
6. Serve:
   • Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add a dash of red wine to the meat filling.
• Substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
• Use a piping bag to create a decorative potato topping or keep it rustic with swirls and peaks for a crispy texture.

Enjoy this comforting classic, perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion!