Shepherd’s pie

Here’s a hearty, comforting Shepherd’s Pie recipe—a classic dish of savory meat and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.

🥧 Classic Shepherd’s Pie (Serves 6)

Note: True Shepherd’s Pie uses ground lamb. If made with beef, it’s technically “Cottage Pie”—but both are delicious!

🛒 Ingredients

For the meat filling:

• 1 lb ground lamb (or ground beef)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled & diced

• ½ cup frozen peas (or corn)

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• ½ cup beef or vegetable broth

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: ½ tsp thyme or rosemary

For the mashed potato topping:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon gold or russets), peeled & chopped

• 4 tbsp butter

• ½ cup milk (plus more as needed)

• Salt & pepper, to taste

• Optional: ½ cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Parmesan)

🔪 Instructions

1. Boil potatoes
   Cook potatoes in salted water until tender (12–15 minutes). Drain, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Make the meat filling
   In a large skillet over medium heat:

   • Sauté onion, garlic, and carrots until soft (5–7 minutes).

   • Add ground lamb or beef and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.

   • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, broth, herbs, and peas. Simmer until thickened slightly (5–10 minutes). Season to taste.

3. Assemble the pie

   • Spread meat mixture into a 9×9″ baking dish or similar.

   • Spoon mashed potatoes over the top, spreading to seal the edges.

   • Optional: Sprinkle with cheese.

4. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, or until golden and bubbling. Broil the top for 2–3 minutes if you want a crispier crust.

5. Rest for 5 minutes, then serve warm.

🧑‍🍳 Tips & Variations

• Make ahead: Assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours before baking.

• Vegetarian option: Use lentils or plant-based ground meat instead.

• Extra richness: Add a splash of cream to mashed potatoes, or egg yolk for fluffiness.

• Single-serve: Bake in ramekins for individual pies!

Would you like a printable version, or a one-skillet version with fewer dishes?