🥔 Classic Shepherd’s Pie – Savory Meat and Creamy Mashed Potato Perfection!
🍴Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food — layers of savory ground meat and vegetables nestled under a blanket of creamy mashed potatoes, baked until golden and bubbling. It’s hearty, filling, and perfect for family dinners or cozy Sunday meals.
Why You’ll Love This Shepherd’s Pie ❤️
- 🥔 Comfort food classic: Rich, creamy, and deeply satisfying.
- 🍖 Flavorful filling: A perfect blend of meat, veggies, and herbs in a thick gravy.
- 🕒 Make-ahead friendly: Assemble in advance and bake when ready.
- 👨👩👧👦 Family favorite: Everyone loves a good Shepherd’s Pie!
Ingredients 🧄
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Ground lamb or beef | 1 lb (450 g) |
| Olive oil | 2 tbsp |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Carrots, diced | 2 |
| Frozen peas | 1 cup |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Tomato paste | 2 tbsp |
| Beef or chicken broth | 1 cup |
| Worcestershire sauce | 1 tbsp |
| Thyme | 1 tsp |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
| Mashed potatoes | 4 cups (prepared) |
| Butter | 2 tbsp |
| Cheddar cheese (optional) | ½ cup, shredded |
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie 🍲
- Cook the meat: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Add aromatics: Stir in onion, garlic, and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Build the gravy: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add broth and simmer until thickened, 10 minutes.
- Add peas: Stir in peas and remove from heat.
- Assemble: Spread meat mixture in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading evenly. Fluff with a fork for texture.
- Bake: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes until golden and bubbling.
- Serve: Let it cool slightly, then serve warm. 🍽️
Storage & Reheating 🍱
- Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze in portions for up to 3 months — reheat directly from frozen in the oven at 350°F (175°C).
Nutrition (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 420 kcal |
| Fat | 24 g |
| Carbohydrates | 28 g |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Sodium | 730 mg |
Variations 🍽️
- Beef version: Use ground beef instead of lamb for a Cottage Pie.
- Veggie option: Substitute lentils or mushrooms for meat.
- Sweet potato twist: Replace mashed potatoes with mashed sweet potatoes for a colorful and nutritious touch.
Serving Suggestions 🥗
- Serve with green beans, roasted vegetables, or a crisp garden salad.
- Pair with crusty bread to soak up the rich gravy.
- Add a dash of hot sauce for a flavorful kick!
FAQ — Shepherd’s Pie 🥧
1. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it, cover tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
2. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Absolutely. They work great for a quick version — just make them thick so they hold their shape.
3. How do I get that golden top?
Use a fork to create ridges on top of the mashed potatoes — they brown beautifully in the oven.
4. Can I add cheese to the mashed potatoes?
Yes! Mixing in cheddar or parmesan adds a lovely creamy flavor and golden crust.
5. What’s the best dish to bake it in?
A 9×9-inch baking dish or medium casserole dish works perfectly for even cooking and crispy edges.
Expert Tips 👩🍳
- Don’t overwork mashed potatoes — keep them fluffy for the best texture.
- Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving so the layers set.
- Use high-quality broth for the richest gravy flavor.
Make It Ahead & Freeze ❄️
Shepherd’s Pie is freezer-friendly! Simply cool completely, wrap tightly in foil, and freeze. When ready, bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and golden. It’s perfect for busy nights or family gatherings.
Wrap-Up 🥄
This Shepherd’s Pie is everything a cozy dinner should be — rich, hearty, and filled with home-cooked love. With layers of savory meat, buttery potatoes, and perfectly baked comfort, it’s a timeless recipe that always satisfies. ❤️
Explore more comforting classics on Cuisinere 🥧