What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Making shepherd’s pie at home is cozy, comforting, and way easier than you think! You’ll love this recipe because it’s perfect for busy nights, feeds a crowd, and lets you sneak in some extra veggies. Plus, the creamy mashed potato topping is practically irresistible. Throw it together, pop it in the oven, and dinner’s done—simple as that!
Recipe
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort dish featuring a rich meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners and can be customized with your favorite vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk
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 with onions, carrots, and garlic. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, peas, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Transfer meat mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden. Let rest 5 minutes before serving.
Notes:
- For a crispier top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Substitute ground turkey for a lighter version.
Equipment:
- Large skillet
- Baking dish
- Potato masher
Time:
- Prep: 20 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
Cuisine: British
Serving: 6
Nutrition
Shepherd’s pie is a hearty dish packed with nutrients from its meat, vegetables, and mashed potato topping. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my shepherd’s pie with simple side dishes like a crisp green salad or buttery steamed veggies—they balance the dish perfectly. For drinks, I’d go with a nice glass of red wine or a fizzy soda for something lighter. It’s all about finding what complements the cozy, comforting flavors!
Side Dishes
When you’re serving up a hearty shepherd’s pie, it’s always nice to balance it with some fresh, complementary sides. I love pairing mine with a crisp green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette—it cuts through the richness perfectly. Roasted vegetables, like carrots or Brussels sprouts, add a touch of sweetness and crunch. Garlic bread or a warm baguette is great for soaking up any extra gravy, and who can say no to bread? If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up some steamed peas or buttered corn for a classic touch. These sides make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight.
Beverage Pairings
A glass of red wine, like a smooth Cabernet Sauvignon or a fruity Pinot Noir, pairs beautifully with shepherd’s pie, balancing its rich flavors. If you’re not into wine, a dark beer, like a stout or porter, works wonders too—its deep, malty notes complement the savory filling. For something non-alcoholic, I love sipping on a sparkling apple cider; its crisp sweetness cuts through the dish’s heartiness. Sometimes, I’ll even go for a simple iced tea with lemon, invigorating between bites. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s something you enjoy—it’s all about enhancing the cozy comfort of this classic meal.
