Homemade Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food dish featuring seasoned ground meat, a rich vegetable filling, and creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection. This hearty and satisfying meal is perfect for family dinners and cozy nights at home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic comfort food – A warm, filling, and satisfying dish.
• Easy to make – Simple ingredients and step-by-step instructions.
• Make-ahead friendly – Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
• Customizable – Use beef, turkey, or a vegetarian filling!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meat Filling:

• Ground lamb (traditional) or ground beef
• Onion (chopped)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrots (chopped)
• Peas
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Beef broth
• Thyme and rosemary
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil or butter

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes (peeled and diced)
• Butter
• Milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper
• Shredded cheese (optional, for extra richness)

Directions

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
2. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

2. Cook the Meat Filling:

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and carrots. Sauté until softened.
3. Add ground lamb or beef, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
5. Pour in beef broth and simmer for 5 minutes. Stir in peas.

3. Assemble & Bake:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spread the meat filling evenly in a baking dish.
3. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing with a spatula.
4. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
5. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 45 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy topping – Mix shredded cheddar into the mashed potatoes.
• Vegetarian version – Use lentils instead of meat and vegetable broth.
• Gluten-free – Ensure Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free.
• Spicy kick – Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce to the filling.

Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze before baking for up to 3 months. Thaw before baking.
• Reheat: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave individual portions.

FAQs

Can I use ground turkey instead of beef or lamb?

Yes! Ground turkey is a leaner alternative.

What’s the best potato for the topping?

Russet potatoes give a fluffy texture, while Yukon Golds add creaminess.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the pie, refrigerate, and bake when ready.

Can I add other vegetables?

Absolutely! Mushrooms, corn, or green beans work well.

How do I prevent the mashed potatoes from sinking?

Let the meat filling cool slightly before topping with potatoes.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?

Yes! Sweet potatoes add a slightly sweeter flavor.

What’s the best way to get a crispy topping?

Brush with melted butter and broil for 2-3 minutes before serving.

Can I cook this in a cast iron skillet?

Yes! Assemble and bake directly in an oven-safe skillet.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes! Freeze before baking, then bake fresh when needed.

What can I serve with Shepherd’s Pie?

A side salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread pair perfectly.

Conclusion

Homemade Shepherd’s Pie is a warm, comforting, and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With a savory meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping, this classic meal is sure to be a family favorite. Try it today and enjoy a cozy, homemade dinner!

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