Here’s a clear and classic way to make Shepherd’s Pie, a cozy, savory dish with layers of meat and creamy mashed potatoes. 🥧
🥩 Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the filling:
- 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or beef for “cottage pie”)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable stock
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1–2 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For the topping:
- 2–3 cups mashed potatoes (prepared with butter and milk)
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1️⃣ Make the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Sauté onions and carrots until softened (5–7 min).
- Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
- Add ground lamb and cook until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in stock and simmer until mixture thickens (5–10 min).
- Stir in peas and remove from heat.
2️⃣ Prepare the Topping
- Make mashed potatoes or use leftovers. Add butter, milk, and seasoning.
3️⃣ Assemble
- Spread meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with mashed potatoes, spreading smoothly or swirling with a fork.
- Optional: sprinkle cheese on top.
4️⃣ Bake
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden brown.
5️⃣ Serve
- Let cool for a few minutes, then slice and enjoy!
💡 Chef’s Tips:
- For extra flavor, add a splash of cream or sour cream to the mashed potato topping.
- If using lamb, a pinch of mint can brighten the dish.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day!
If you want, I can also give a “quick 30-minute Shepherd’s Pie hack” that’s faster than traditional recipes but just as delicious.
Do you want me to do that?