Homemade Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s pie is a comforting, classic dish made with a savory ground meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Traditionally made with lamb, this dish can also be prepared with beef for an equally delicious variation known as cottage pie. Packed with rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s the perfect hearty meal for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Classic Comfort Food – Warm, rich, and satisfying.
• One-Pan Meal – Everything bakes together for easy cleanup.
• Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day.
• Customizable – Swap the meat or add extra veggies for variety.

Ingredients

this Recipe

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Meat Filling:

• Ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Carrots, diced
• Peas
• Tomato paste
• Worcestershire sauce
• Beef or chicken broth
• Thyme
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• Potatoes, peeled and cubed
• Butter
• Milk or heavy cream
• Salt and pepper
• Optional: Shredded cheese for a golden, cheesy crust

Directions

1. Cook the meat – In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add ground lamb or beef and cook until browned.
2. Add veggies and seasoning – Stir in carrots, peas, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Make mashed potatoes – Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
4. Assemble the pie – Spread the meat mixture in a baking dish and top with mashed potatoes. Smooth with a spatula and create peaks for a crispy texture.
5. Bake – Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Cheesy Crust – Sprinkle shredded cheese on top before baking.
• Gluten-Free – Ensure Worcestershire sauce and broth are gluten-free.
• Low-Carb Option – Swap potatoes for mashed cauliflower.
• Vegetarian – Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 15 minutes or microwave in short bursts.
• Freezing: Freeze unbaked shepherd’s pie for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen, adding extra time.

FAQs

What’s the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?

Shepherd’s pie is made with lamb, while cottage pie is made with beef.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking.

How do I get a crispy potato topping?

Brush the mashed potatoes with melted butter and broil for a few minutes.

Can I use sweet potatoes instead?

Yes! Mashed sweet potatoes make a delicious alternative.

What other vegetables can I add?

Corn, green beans, or mushrooms work well.

Do I need to thicken the filling?

If it’s too runny, simmer longer or add a little cornstarch slurry.

Can I use instant mashed potatoes?

Yes, but homemade mashed potatoes taste better.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use dairy-free butter and milk alternatives for the mashed potatoes.

What should I serve with Shepherd’s Pie?

A fresh side salad or crusty bread pairs well.

How do I prevent the filling from being too watery?

Use less broth or simmer until the liquid reduces.

Conclusion

Homemade shepherd’s pie is a delicious, hearty dish that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Whether you stick to the traditional lamb version or opt for beef, this meal is sure to be a family favorite. Serve it hot and enjoy a comforting classic!

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