Shepherd’s Pie may sound like an old-fashioned meal, but it’s one of those timeless comfort foods that never go out of style. Whether you’re cooking for the family or just craving something cozy, this dish brings warmth and flavor to the table. Here’s a delicious and easy recipe that puts a flavorful spin on the traditional Shepherd’s Pie.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound of ground beef (or ground lamb if you prefer the classic version)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of frozen peas and diced carrots
- 1 cup of beef broth (low sodium recommended)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or substitute with Italian seasoning)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups of creamy mashed potatoes (leftover or freshly made)
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, but highly recommended for a cheesy crust)
Instructions:
- Preheat and Prepare
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). Lightly grease a medium-sized baking dish and set it aside. - Cook the Meat Filling
In a large skillet or pan, add the ground beef over medium heat. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Once browned, drain the excess grease to avoid a greasy pie. - Add Flavor
Toss in the chopped onions and garlic, cooking them until the onions turn translucent and fragrant. This should take around 3-5 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas and carrots, then add the beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and thyme. Mix everything together thoroughly. - Simmer
Let the mixture simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes. The sauce should reduce and thicken slightly. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. - Assemble the Pie
Pour the savory meat mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Then, gently layer the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them with a spatula to cover all the filling. If you’re using cheese, sprinkle it generously over the potatoes. - Bake to Perfection
Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden and the edges are bubbling. For an extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes—just keep an eye on it. - Cool and Serve
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This helps everything set and makes it easier to slice.
Final Notes:
This Shepherd’s Pie is a simple yet satisfying dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or make-ahead meals. It’s hearty, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. Try adding corn, mushrooms, or swapping beef for turkey for a lighter version. No matter how you make it, it’s a crowd-pleaser every time.
