Comforting Shepherd’s Pie with a savory meat filling and creamy mashed potatoes makes for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Ideal for any night of the week, this classic dish is sure to delight your taste buds with its perfectly seasoned layers.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with the frozen peas, then layer the prepared mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Using a fork, create a pattern on the mashed potatoes for a crispy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Variation
- Use turkey instead of beef or lamb for a leaner pie.
- Top with a mix of cheddar and Parmesan cheese for a cheesy crust.
- Incorporate corn for added sweetness and texture.
Cooking Notes
- If using fresh peas, add them with the other veggies in the skillet.
- Adjust the consistency of the meat mixture by adding more broth if needed.
- Ensure the mashed potatoes are well-seasoned before topping.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- A glass of red wine complements this dish beautifully.
Tips
- Prepare the mashed potatoes ahead of time to save on prep work.
- Let the pie rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
- Freeze portions in individual containers for an easy future meal.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 18g
- Sodium: 640mg
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
Yes, it freezes well for up to 2 months. - What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Use the oven or microwave, covered, until heated through. - Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve. - What can I use instead of beef broth?
Chicken broth or vegetable broth works well.
Conclusion
Shepherd’s Pie with its rich, savory meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping makes for the ultimate comforting meal. Its ease of preparation and delightful, layered flavors are sure to become a family favorite. Perfect for any occasion, it can be paired with simple sides to create a wholesome dinner experience. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening or served as a centerpiece for gatherings, this classic dish never disappoints.
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Easy Shepherd’s Pie
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Nut-Free
Description
Comforting Shepherd’s Pie with a savory meat filling and creamy mashed potatoes makes for a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Ideal for any night of the week, this classic dish is sure to delight your taste buds with its perfectly seasoned layers.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots, and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Stir in the ground beef or lamb, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Add the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and let simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Top with the frozen peas, then layer the prepared mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing it out with a spatula.
- Using a fork, create a pattern on the mashed potatoes for a crispy texture. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
Notes
- Use fresh herbs if available for enhanced flavor.
- Substitute sweet potatoes for a twist on the classic mashed topping.
- For a vegetarian version, replace the meat with lentils.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the pie
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: Shepherd’s Pie, Comfort Food, Easy, Main Dish