What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This shepherd’s pie is a comforting classic that’s perfect for any night of the week. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and sure to please everyone at the table.
- Simple ingredients: You likely have most of what you need in your pantry already.
- Customizable: Swap in your favorite veggies or meats to make it your own.
- Leftover magic: It tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead meal.
Recipe
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food dish featuring a savory meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This homemade version is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp rosemary, chopped
- 1 tsp thyme, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, brown the lamb over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, peas, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, rosemary, and thyme. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top.
- Sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.
Notes:
- For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
Equipment:
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Potato masher
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 40 minutes
Cuisine: British
Serving: 6
Nutrition
Nutritional values can vary based on ingredients and portion sizes. Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my shepherd’s pie with roasted vegetables, like carrots and Brussels sprouts, for a bit of crunch and extra flavor. Garlic bread is another favorite of mine, adding a warm, buttery side that’s perfect for soaking up any leftover gravy. It’s a simple combo that makes the meal feel even cozier.
Roasted Vegetables
When I’m whipping up a cozy shepherd’s pie, I love pairing it with roasted vegetables—they’re simple, flavorful, and make the meal feel complete. I usually go for carrots, parsnips, and Brussels sprouts because they caramelize beautifully in the oven, bringing out their natural sweetness. Toss them with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F until they’re tender and slightly crispy. Sometimes, I’ll add rosemary or thyme for extra aroma. The earthy flavors of the veggies balance the richness of the pie perfectly, and they’re easy to prep while the pie bakes. It’s a crowd-pleaser every time!
Garlic Bread
Though it’s often seen as a side for Italian dishes, garlic bread works wonders with shepherd’s pie, adding a buttery, garlicky crunch that’s downright irresistible. The crispy, golden edges pair perfectly with the creamy mashed potatoes and savory filling, making each bite a comforting delight. I love toasting a fresh baguette, slathering it with garlic butter, and sprinkling on a bit of parsley for a pop of color. Sometimes, I’ll even add a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra richness. It’s simple to make, but it elevates the meal in a way that feels special and satisfying every time.
