Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
A classic comfort dish featuring a hearty layer of seasoned ground meat topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners, this recipe is rich, satisfying, and easy to customize with your favorite ingredients.
Equipment
- 1 Large skillet For browning meat and sautéing vegetables.
- 1 Mixing spoon For combining ingredients.
- 1 Baking dish (9x13 inches) For assembling and baking the shepherd’s pie.
- 1 Measuring Cups/Spoons Ensures accurate portions of broth, Worcestershire sauce, and spices.
- 1 Spatula For spreading mashed potatoes evenly over the meat layer.
Ingredients
- 1 lb Ground beef or lamb Lean ground beef works well; lamb is traditional for shepherd’s pie.
- 1 cup Mixed vegetables carrots, peas, corn Pre-chopped for convenience.
- 1 cup Beef or vegetable broth Low-sodium is recommended for dietary flexibility.
- 2 tbsp Worcestershire sauce Adds tangy depth. Substitute with soy sauce if needed.
- 1 tsp Fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried ) Enhances earthy aroma.
- 1 tsp Fresh rosemary (or ½ tsp dried ) Adds a pine-like fragrance.
- 1 Onion (medium, diced ) For savory base flavor.
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced) Boosts aromatic complexity.
- 1 tbsp Olive oil For sautéing vegetables.
- 3 cups Mashed potatoes Use homemade or store-bought.
- ½ cup Grated cheddar cheese Optional for topping.
Optional Additions:
- 1 tbsp Tomato paste For added richness in the meat layer.
- 1 tsp Paprika Adds a hint of smokiness.
Instructions
Step-by-Step Recipe
Prep Ingredients :
- Dice onions, mince garlic, and chop vegetables (if not pre-chopped).
- Prepare mashed potatoes ahead of time, keeping them warm.
Sauté Aromatics :
- Heat olive oil in a pan. Add onions and garlic, sauté until translucent (~3 minutes).
Cook Meat Layer :
- Add ground beef or lamb to the pan. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in mixed vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, and broth. Simmer for 10 minutes until flavors meld.
Assemble Shepherd’s Pie :
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish. Spread evenly.
- Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface with a spatula. Sprinkle grated cheese on top (optional).
Bake :
- Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.
Serve :
- Let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley for color.
Notes
-
- Flavor Balance: Worcestershire sauce adds tanginess; adjust to taste.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute meat with lentils or mushrooms.
- Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven for the best texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Can I use turkey instead of beef or lamb?
- Yes! Ground turkey reduces fat content while maintaining flavor.
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How to make this dish gluten-free?
- Use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and verify that the broth is gluten-free.
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What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes for the best texture.
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Can I freeze this shepherd’s pie?
- Freeze in portions before baking. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
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How do I thicken the meat layer?
- Add a slurry of cornstarch and water during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Tips & Tricks
- Layering Flavors: Brown meat first for a deeper savory base.
- Herb Freshness: Use fresh thyme/rosemary for a brighter flavor.
- Crispy Topping: Broil the mashed potato layer for 2–3 minutes after baking for a golden crust.
Presentation Tips
- Garnish: Sprinkle chopped parsley over the mashed potatoes for a pop of color.
- Serving Style: Serve in individual ramekins for a special touch or use a large casserole dish for a classic look.
- Pairings: Serve with buttered bread or a side salad for a complete meal.