Classic Shepherd’s Pie

📖 Description:

Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting, hearty dish originating from the UK, traditionally made with ground lamb, vegetables, and a rich gravy, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection. It’s the ultimate cozy meal, great for family dinners and meal prepping.

🍽️ Ingredients For Classic Shepherd’s Pie

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 medium onion, chopped

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium carrots, diced

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

• 1/2 cup frozen corn (optional)

• 1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1/2 tsp rosemary (optional)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1 cup beef broth (low-sodium preferred)

• 1 tbsp all-purpose flour (to thicken)

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs (900g) potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and chopped

• 1/4 cup unsalted butter

• 1/2 cup milk (warm)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar (optional, for topping)

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

1. Make the Potato Topping:

• Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until fork-tender.

• Drain, mash, and mix in butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Filling:

• Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

• Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until softened (5–6 minutes).

• Add ground lamb; cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

• Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

• Sprinkle flour, stir, and cook 1 minute.

• Pour in broth; simmer until thickened (8–10 minutes).

• Stir in peas and corn. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

• Spread meat mixture in a baking dish (8×8 or similar).

• Spoon mashed potatoes over meat, smoothing the top.

• Sprinkle cheese on top (if using).

4. Bake:

• Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes or until golden brown.

• Broil 2–3 minutes for extra crisp top (optional).

• Rest 10 minutes before serving.

🍴 Servings:

Makes 4–6 servings

📝 Notes:

• Meat Choice: Traditionally lamb for “Shepherd’s Pie”, beef for “Cottage Pie”.

• Make Ahead: Assemble up to 2 days ahead and refrigerate.

• Freezer Friendly: Freeze assembled (unbaked) pie for up to 2 months.

• Gravy Thickness: Add more broth or flour depending on your desired consistency.

💡 Tips:

• For extra creaminess, mix a bit of sour cream into the mashed potatoes.

• Use a fork to create ridges on top of potatoes—these crisp up beautifully in the oven.

• Try sweet potatoes for a twist.

• Add fresh herbs like parsley for color and brightness just before serving.

🔍 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approximate for 1 of 6 servings):

• Calories: 420

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 30g

• Fat: 24g

• Saturated Fat: 10g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 4g

• Sodium: 480mg

✅ Health Benefits:

• Protein-rich: Great for muscle maintenance and satiety.

• Balanced meal: Includes carbs, proteins, fiber, and fats.

• Vegetable intake: Hidden carrots, peas, and corn boost fiber and nutrients.

• Comfort food: Nourishes body and soul, especially during cold weather.

❓ Q&A:

Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Yes! Use lentils, mushrooms, or plant-based crumbles, and swap beef broth for veggie broth.

Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.

Q: Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
A: You can, though homemade mashed potatoes offer better flavor and texture.

Q: Can I use other vegetables?
A: Definitely! Try green beans, celery, parsnips, or spinach depending on availability.