Classic Beef Shepherd’s Pie

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📝 Description:

Classic Beef Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish made with ground beef cooked in a rich gravy with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked until golden and bubbly. Though traditionally made with lamb (hence the name “Shepherd’s Pie”), the beef version is equally popular and delicious.

🍽️ Servings:

Serves: 6
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

📋 Ingredients for Classic Beef Shepherd’s Pie

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 medium carrots, diced

  • 1 cup frozen peas

  • 1 cup frozen corn

  • 1.5 lbs (680g) ground beef

  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste

  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme

  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)

  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

  • 1 cup beef broth

For the mashed potato topping:

  • 2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes, peeled and cubed

  • 1/4 cup unsalted butter

  • 1/3 cup milk (or heavy cream for richer mash)

  • Salt & pepper, to taste

  • Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

🍳 Instructions:

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:

  1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).

  2. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Beef Filling:

  1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.

  2. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until soft (5 minutes).

  3. Add ground beef. Cook until browned, breaking it apart.

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

  5. Sprinkle in flour and stir well.

  6. Pour in beef broth. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until thickened.

  7. Add peas and corn. Cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat.

3. Assemble the Pie:

  1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

  2. Spread the beef mixture evenly in a baking dish (9×13-inch works well).

  3. Gently spoon or pipe mashed potatoes on top. Spread evenly.

  4. (Optional) Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.

4. Bake:

  1. Bake in preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

  2. For extra crispness, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.

5. Serve:

Let sit for 5–10 minutes before serving. Enjoy warm!

💡 Notes & Tips:

  • For a smoother topping: Use a potato ricer for fluffy mashed potatoes.

  • Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Bake when ready.

  • Freezer-friendly: Freeze fully assembled (unbaked) or leftovers. Reheat from frozen at 375°F (190°C) until heated through.

  • Swap veggies: Use green beans, mushrooms, or celery for variation.

  • Make it dairy-free: Use plant-based milk and butter alternatives in the mash.

🥦 Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approximate):

  • Calories: 420

  • Protein: 25g

  • Carbohydrates: 32g

  • Fat: 22g

  • Fiber: 4g

  • Sugars: 4g

  • Sodium: 540mg

✅ Health Benefits:

  • Balanced Meal: Combines protein, carbs, and vegetables in one dish.

  • Good Source of Iron & B Vitamins: From ground beef.

  • High in Fiber: Thanks to the vegetables and potatoes.

  • Comfort Food: Great for stress relief and family dinners.

  • Customizable: Can be adapted for low-carb or vegetarian diets.

 Q&A Section:

❓ Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?

Yes! Ground turkey is leaner and works well. Adjust seasoning to enhance flavor.

❓ What potatoes are best for the topping?

Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes are ideal for creamy mashed potatoes.

❓ How do I avoid watery filling?

Make sure to cook down the beef mixture until thickened, and don’t skip the flour—it helps create a gravy-like consistency.

❓ Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Use lentils or a plant-based meat substitute and veggie broth.

❓ What should I serve with Shepherd’s Pie?

It’s a full meal on its own, but a fresh side salad or steamed greens pair well.

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