Shepherd’s Pie is a traditional dish originating from England, known for its rich and savory flavors. It features a layer of seasoned ground meat (typically lamb or beef) cooked with vegetables in a flavorful gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked to golden perfection. This dish is perfect for cozy dinners and is loved for its simplicity and versatility.
Ingredients:
For the Meat Filling:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound ground lamb (or ground beef)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Potato Topping:
- 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup milk or cream
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Potatoes:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the cubed potatoes and cook until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. For extra creaminess, use a hand mixer. Set aside.
- Cook the Meat Filling:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain any excess fat.
- Season the meat with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Stir in Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste, cooking for 2 minutes to deepen the flavors.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for 5 minutes until the sauce thickens. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
- Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
- Spread the meat filling evenly in the bottom of the dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them to cover the filling completely. For a golden crust, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
- Bake:
- Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly. For extra crispiness, broil for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve:
- Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. Pair it with a fresh side salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Tips for Success:
- Use fresh herbs for a more vibrant flavor.
- Cool the meat filling slightly before topping with potatoes to prevent the layers from mixing.
- Customize the vegetables based on your preference—corn, green beans, or mushrooms work well.
Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless dish that brings warmth and comfort to any table. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is sure to be a hit. Enjoy!