Shepherd's Pie

  • Total time - 75 minutes
  • Prep time - 25 minutes
  • Cook time - 50 minutes
  • Servings: 4
  • Country: Great Britain
Shepherd's Pie on a plate, with a browned and golden mashed potato crust and the meat filling visible underneath.

Shepherd's Pie is a classic comfort food that feels like a warm hug. While traditionally made with minced lamb (hence the name 'shepherd'), the beef version is called 'Cottage Pie'. This recipe will guide you to create the most flavorful version, with a fluffy mashed potato topping and a richly seasoned meat mixture.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Shepherd's Pie

  • 500 g ground lamb
  • 1 pc onion, finely chopped
  • 2 pcs carrots, finely diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 400 ml beef broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 100 g peas, frozen
  • 1000 g potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 50 g butter
  • 100 ml milk
  • to taste salt and black pepper

Instructions

Step 1: Preparing the Meat Filling

In a large skillet over medium heat, brown the ground lamb until cooked through. Add the onion and carrots and sauté for about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the garlic and tomato paste and cook for another minute. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce, reduce the heat, and simmer for 20 minutes until the sauce has thickened. Stir in the peas and season with salt and pepper.

Step 2: Preparing the Mashed Potato Topping

Meanwhile, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender. Drain them and mash with the butter, warm milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Step 3: Assembling and Baking

Preheat your oven to 190 °C. Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish and spread it evenly. Top with the mashed potato, spreading it over the meat mixture. Use a fork to create a pattern on the surface of the mash, which will help it brown nicely.

Step 4: Serving

Bake in the oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the pie rest for 5 minutes before serving.