Shepherd’s Pie is a classic, hearty comfort dish enjoyed for generations. Made with savory ground lamb or beef, sautéed vegetables, rich gravy, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes, this dish is both satisfying and easy to make. Perfect for meal prep and family dinners!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ultimate Comfort Food – Warm, savory, and filling.
- Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and beginner-friendly steps.
- Customizable – Use beef, lamb, turkey, or even a vegetarian filling.
- Great for Meal Prep – Freezes and reheats beautifully.
- Kid-Friendly – A great way to include extra vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 lbs ground lamb or beef
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 4 cups potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and cook until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add ground lamb or beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
- Stir in mixed vegetables and cook for 5 minutes.
- Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, thyme, and rosemary. Stir well.
- Simmer for 10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the meat mixture into a 9×13” baking dish.
Step 2: Make the Mashed Potatoes
- While the meat filling simmers, boil diced potatoes in a large pot until tender (about 15 minutes).
- Drain and return potatoes to the pot.
- Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth.
- Stir in shredded cheddar cheese for extra flavor (optional).
Step 3: Assemble & Bake
- Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling.
- Brush the top with melted butter for a golden-brown finish.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
- Let it cool for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie
- Use freshly mashed potatoes for the best texture.
- Let it cool slightly before slicing to keep layers intact.
- For a crispy top, broil for the last 3 minutes.
- Enhance the flavor by replacing beef broth with red wine.
- Low-carb alternative: Swap mashed potatoes with cauliflower mash.
Best Ways to Serve Shepherd’s Pie
This dish is perfect on its own, but you can pair it with:
- Warm dinner rolls
- A fresh side salad
- Steamed green beans or broccoli
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 30g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fat: 22g
- Fiber: 5g
For a lower-calorie version, use ground turkey and cauliflower mash.
Storage & Leftovers
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months.
Reheating:
- Microwave: Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Oven: Bake at 350°F for 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
- Yes! Let it cool completely, then wrap tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
2. What’s the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?
- Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb, while Cottage Pie is made with beef.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
- Absolutely! Prepare and refrigerate overnight, then bake when ready.
4. Can I make a vegetarian version?
- Yes! Substitute meat with lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based ground “beef.”
Related Recipes You’ll Love
- Cheesy Taco Stuffed Shells – Easy Family Dinner Idea
- One-Pot Cheesy Sausage Pasta – Best Quick Dinner Recipe
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a warm, filling, and delicious family meal, Shepherd’s Pie is a fantastic choice. With a flavorful meat filling, creamy mashed potatoes, and a golden-baked crust, it’s bound to be a hit at the dinner table!
Did you try this recipe? Let us know in the comments!
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Now you’re ready to cook the best Shepherd’s Pie at home!
