Shepherd’s Pie Recipe: A Classic Comfort Dish
Shepherd’s Pie Recipe is a quintessential comfort food, rich in flavor, warmth, and heartiness. This traditional British dish, also known as Cottage Pie when made with beef, combines savory ground lamb (or beef) with vegetables and is topped with a creamy mashed potato crust. Perfect for a cozy dinner or meal prepping for the week, this dish is a crowd-pleaser and a timeless favorite.
Servings:
- This recipe serves 4 to 6 people, depending on portion size.
Preparation Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cook time: 50-60 minutes (including simmering and baking)
- Total time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Ingredients Shepherd’s Pie Recipe :
For the Filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or ground beef for Cottage Pie)
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1 cup beef or lamb broth (can substitute with vegetable broth)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp dried thyme (or fresh, finely chopped)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp rosemary (optional)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or butter for sautéing
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and diced
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk or cream (adjust for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional, for extra richness)
Instructions Shepherd’s Pie Recipe :
Step 1: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- Place the diced potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil. Add a pinch of salt.
- Boil the potatoes for 15-20 minutes, or until they are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash with a potato masher or use a hand mixer for a smoother texture.
- Add the butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Continue mashing until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
Step 2: Make the Filling
- In a large skillet or frying pan, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 2-3 minutes, until softened.
- Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Add the diced carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, peas, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook for 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens and the vegetables are tender.
- Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 3: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Transfer the meat and vegetable filling into a baking dish, spreading it evenly.
- Carefully spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling, spreading them evenly with a spatula. For a rustic look, you can use the back of a spoon to create peaks.
- Optionally, sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the mashed potatoes for a cheesy golden crust.
- Bake the Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crispy.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Remove the Shepherd’s Pie from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Dish out generous portions and serve hot.
Tips for the Perfect Shepherd’s Pie:
- Meat: Ground lamb is traditional, but you can also use ground beef for a different flavor.
- Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like corn, celery, or parsnips for more variety.
- Make-Ahead: Shepherd’s Pie can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to two days before baking. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Topping Variations: Add garlic or Parmesan cheese to the mashed potatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Conclusion:
Shepherd’s Pie is the epitome of comfort food, with its satisfying layers of savory filling and creamy mashed potatoes. Whether you’re enjoying it on a cold winter evening or sharing it with friends and family, this dish never fails to deliver. Try this recipe, and let it warm both your heart and your home!
