Name: Mouthwatering Shepherds Pie: A Comfort Food Classic
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 50 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: British
Ingredients: 2 pounds russet potatoes; ½ cup milk; ¼ cup butter; Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper; 2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil; 1 large onion; 3 cloves garlic; 2 large carrots; 2 stalks celery; 1½ pounds ground lamb or ground beef; 1 teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon pepper; 1 cup chicken broth; 1½ tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 2 teaspoons fresh rosemary; 1 teaspoon fresh thyme; 1 cup frozen peas

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Introduction

Shepherds Pie is a comforting dish that brings warmth and joy to any dining table. This mouthwatering version combines ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes for a delightful experience. With its roots in British cuisine, Shepherds Pie is not just a meal; it’s a nostalgic journey that evokes memories of family gatherings and cozy nights in. Let’s dive into this classic recipe that promises to satisfy your cravings and make your dinner special.

Why You’ll Love This Shepherds Pie

This Shepherds Pie is loved for many reasons. Firstly, it’s a complete meal packed with protein and vegetables, making it a healthy option for families. Secondly, it’s incredibly versatile; whether you’re opting for a traditional ground lamb or a lighter ground beef, the flavor remains rich and satisfying. Thirdly, with its creamy mashed potato top, it’s comfort food at its finest. Additionally, it can be made ahead of time, perfect for busy weeknights. You can also customize it with different vegetables or even try a vegetarian shepherd’s pie alternative. Finally, this dish is a great way to use leftover meat, making it a practical choice for meal prep. For more meal prep ideas, check out these recipes.

Ingredients for Shepherds Pie

Gather these items:

2 pounds russet potatoes
½ cup milk
¼ cup butter
Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
2 tablespoons avocado oil or olive oil
1 large onion
3 cloves garlic
2 large carrots
2 stalks celery
1½ pounds ground lamb or ground beef
1 teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon pepper
1 cup chicken broth
1½ tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons fresh rosemary
1 teaspoon fresh thyme
1 cup frozen peas

How to Make Shepherds Pie Step-by-Step

Step 1: Boil the Potatoes: Begin by placing the peeled and quartered russet potatoes in a large pot. Cover them with cold water, then bring the heat to high. Cook for 13 to 15 minutes, or until they are tender and soft when pierced with a fork.
Step 2: Mash the Potatoes: Once cooked, drain the potatoes in a colander and return them to the pot. Add the milk, butter, salt, and pepper, then mash until creamy and smooth. Set aside for now.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large oven-safe sauté pan, heat the avocado or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté for about a minute until fragrant.
Step 4: Cook the Veggies and Meat: Add the diced carrots and celery to the pan, along with the ground lamb or beef. Cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the meat is browned thoroughly.
Step 5: Build the Filling: After browning the meat, drain any excess fat from the pan. Stir in the chicken broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer on low for about 5 minutes, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 6: Add the Peas: Stir in the frozen peas and mix well until evenly distributed. Turn off the heat and flatten the meat mixture into an even layer using the back of your spatula.
Step 7: Top with Potatoes: Spoon the creamy mashed potatoes over the meat mixture, spreading it out evenly to cover the filling completely.
Step 8: Bake to Perfection: Place the pan in the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.

Pro Tips for the Perfect Shepherds Pie

Keep these in mind:

Use starchy potatoes like russets for a creamy mash.
Don’t skip the Worcestershire sauce; it adds essential flavor.
For a twist, try adding sweet potatoes to your mash for a healthy shepherd’s pie variation.
Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving to let the filling set.

Mouthwatering Shepherds Pie: A Comfort Food Classic - Shepherds Pie - main visual representation

Best Ways to Serve Shepherds Pie

Enjoy this dish with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For a heartier meal, pair it with crusty bread. You can also serve it as part of a family gathering, showcasing its comforting nature. Many people even enjoy a scoop of this savory meat pie as leftovers the next day, making it a flexible option for meal prep. For more ideas on serving, check out this recipe.

How to Store and Reheat Shepherds Pie

You can store any leftover Shepherds Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, about 20-25 minutes. This makes it a great option for meal prep ideas!

Frequently Asked Questions About Shepherds Pie

What is the difference between shepherd’s pie and cottage pie?

The main difference lies in the type of meat used. Shepherd’s pie traditionally uses lamb, while cottage pie is made with beef. Both are delightful variations of this comforting dish.

Can I make Shepherds Pie ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just bake it when you’re ready to serve, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Shepherds Pie?

To avoid a watery filling, ensure you drain excess fat after cooking the meat and let the mixture simmer to thicken before adding the mashed potatoes. This will enhance the overall flavor and texture.

Variations of Shepherds Pie You Can Try

For a twist on the classic recipe, consider these variations: a vegetarian shepherd’s pie with lentils, a sweet potato topping instead of traditional mash, or even a cottage pie with beef. Each offers a unique flavor profile while staying true to the comforting essence of this dish.