Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Prep Time 20 mins
Cook Time 45 mins
Rest Time 10 mins
Total Time 1 hr 15 mins
Cooking Method: ,
Courses:
Difficulty: Intermediate
Cooking Temp: 200  C
Servings: 6
Best Season: Fall, Winter
Description

This Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and comforting dish featuring a rich, savory ground lamb filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Packed with flavor, this traditional recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner.

Ingredients
    For the Meat Filling:
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 500 ground g lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
    • For the Mashed Potato Topping:
  • 1 potatoes, kg peeled and cubed
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/2 cup whole milk
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
    Cook the Meat Filling
  1. 1
    Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in garlic and cook for another minute. Add ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, cooking for another 2 minutes. Pour in beef broth, add thyme, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in peas and corn, then remove from heat.
    2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
  2. 2
    Boil the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and return to the pot. Mash the potatoes, then add butter, milk, salt, and black pepper. Stir until smooth and creamy. Mix in shredded cheddar cheese if using.
    3. Assemble and Bake
  3. 3
    Preheat oven to 200°C (392°F). Spread the meat filling evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the filling, spreading evenly and creating peaks for a crispy texture. Bake for 25-30 minutes until golden brown on top. Let it rest for 10 minutes before serving.
Note
  • Storage: Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
  • Variations: Swap lamb for ground beef (Cottage Pie) or use sweet potatoes for a twist.
  • Make-Ahead: Assemble ahead and bake when ready.
Keywords: easy, comfort food, family dinner, meal prep, budget-friendly
Read it online: https://petitepanini.com/recipe/classic-shepherds-pie-recipe/