Here’s a hearty, comforting recipe for Shepherd’s Pie — a classic dish made with savory ground meat and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.
✅ Traditional shepherd’s pie uses lamb — if you’re using beef, it’s technically cottage pie, but both versions are delicious!
🥘 Classic Shepherd’s Pie
🧂 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)
For the meat filling:
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1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or ground beef for cottage pie)
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup carrots, diced
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1/2 cup frozen peas
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 cup beef broth (or lamb stock)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1 tsp fresh thyme or rosemary
For the mashed potato topping:
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2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and chopped
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1/2 cup milk (or cream)
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3 tbsp butter
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Salt and pepper
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Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan)
🔥 Instructions
1. Cook the potatoes:
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Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
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Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Stir in cheese if using.
2. Make the filling:
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In a large skillet, cook ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add onion, garlic, and carrots. Cook until softened (5–7 minutes).
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Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, herbs, and broth. Simmer 5–10 minutes.
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Stir in peas and cook for 2 more minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the pie:
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Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish (8×8 or similar).
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Spread mashed potatoes evenly over the top. Use a fork to make ridges.
4. Bake:
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Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden on top.
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Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end for extra browning.
🍽️ Serve with:
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A crisp green salad
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Steamed green beans or roasted Brussels sprouts
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A warm dinner roll or crusty bread
Would you like a vegetarian version, freezer-friendly meal prep guide, or a sweet potato topping twist next?