Irresistible Shepherd’s Pie Recipe – Comfort Food Delight

The aroma of a bubbling shepherd’s pie wafts through the air, inviting you into a world where comfort food reigns supreme. Picture creamy mashed potatoes topped with savory minced meat and vibrant vegetables, all nestled under a golden crust. This shepherd’s pie recipe transports me to my grandmother’s kitchen, where laughter and love blended seamlessly with the delicious scent of her cooking.

I remember those chilly Sunday afternoons when family gathered around the table, eagerly awaiting her famous dish. Each bite was a warm embrace, perfect for sharing on cozy nights or festive gatherings. Prepare yourself for an incredible flavor journey that promises to satisfy both your taste buds and your heart.

Sharing this dish with friends always leads to smiles and compliments about how comforting it is.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Lamb or Beef: Choose ground lamb for authenticity, but beef works just as well if you prefer a milder flavor.

• Onion: A chopped onion adds sweetness; opt for yellow onions for the best taste.

• Carrots: Cut them into small pieces to ensure even cooking and tenderness throughout.

• Frozen Peas: These are a great time-saver; they add vibrant color and sweetness without extra prep.

• Tomato Paste: A spoonful intensifies the flavor and gives depth to the filling.

• Beef Broth: Use low-sodium broth so you can control the saltiness of your dish.

• Potatoes: Opt for starchy varieties like Russets or Yukon Golds for fluffy mashed potatoes.

• Butter and Milk: These add creaminess and richness to your mashed potatoes; don’t skimp on either!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every layer of flavor in this comforting meal.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Begin by chopping the onion and carrots into small cubes. This ensures they cook evenly in the filling. Gather all remaining ingredients so you have everything at hand.

Sauté the Vegetables: Heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and carrots, cooking until they’re soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen.

Add Meat and Seasoning: Incorporate ground lamb or beef into the skillet. Cook until browned while breaking it apart with a wooden spoon; this should take roughly 8 minutes. Stir in tomato paste along with salt and pepper for seasoning.

Add Broth and Simmer: Pour in beef broth along with frozen peas. Let this simmer uncovered for about 10-15 minutes until thickened slightly while stirring occasionally. The mixture will start bubbling enticingly.

Prepare Mashed Potatoes: While your filling simmers away, peel and chop potatoes into chunks. Boil them in salted water until tender for about 15-20 minutes; drain well before mashing.

Mash with Butter and Milk: In a large bowl, combine drained potatoes with butter and milk; mash until smooth but still fluffy. Taste to adjust seasoning if needed—the creaminess should be heavenly!

Assemble Shepherd’s Pie : Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In an oven-safe dish, spread the meat mixture evenly across the bottom before topping generously with mashed potatoes—smooth out using a spatula for an even finish.

Bake Until Golden Brown : Pop your assembled shepherd’s pie into the oven for about 25-30 minutes or until golden brown on top. Keep an eye out for that perfect bubbly crust!

Let cool slightly before digging in; serve it up hot alongside some crunchy green salad or garlic bread if you’re feeling fancy!

With every scoop of this shepherd’s pie recipe, you’re not just enjoying dinner—you’re reliving cherished memories filled with warmth and laughter around the table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the meat and then layer in vegetables before topping with creamy mashed potatoes. This order ensures all flavors meld beautifully while keeping textures perfect.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for lamb or turkey, or add veggies like peas or corn for extra flavor and freshness. Customize it to match your taste buds!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat at 350°F until heated through, ensuring the top remains creamy.

It’s funny how my first attempt at this shepherd’s pie ended with me accidentally using sweet potatoes instead of regular ones. My family still teases me about my “sweet” version!

FAQ

Can I use leftover mashed potatoes for this shepherd’s pie recipe?

Absolutely! Leftover mashed potatoes make excellent topping, saving time and minimizing waste.

What can I substitute for the ground meat in this recipe?

You can use lentils or mushrooms as hearty vegetarian substitutes, making it equally delicious.

How do I prevent my shepherd’s pie from becoming watery?

Ensure your vegetables are cooked down properly before baking to avoid excess moisture in the filling.

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Shepherd’s Pie

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• Author: Maria Del
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Indulge in this classic shepherd’s pie that combines tender ground meat, vibrant vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes topped with a golden crust. This satisfying dish is perfect for family gatherings or cozy weeknights. Easy to prepare and customizable, it brings warmth and nostalgia right from the oven to your table.

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Ingredients

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• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup low-sodium beef broth
• 2 lbs starchy potatoes (like Russets or Yukon Golds), peeled and chopped
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup milk
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a skillet over medium heat, sauté chopped onions and carrots in oil until soft (about 5 minutes).
3. Add ground meat; cook until browned (about 8 minutes). Stir in tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour in beef broth and add frozen peas; simmer uncovered for 10-15 minutes until thickened.
5. Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (15-20 minutes); drain and mash with butter and milk until fluffy.
6. In an oven-safe dish, layer the meat mixture, then top with mashed potatoes. Smooth the top.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: British

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 410
• Sugar: 4g
• Sodium: 520mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 9g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 5g
• Protein: 18g
• Cholesterol: 65mg