Description

This Homemade Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, comforting dish made with seasoned ground meat, tender vegetables, and a rich gravy, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner! Traditionally made with lamb, this version can also use beef for a cottage pie variation.

Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Meat Filling:

1 lb ground lamb (or ground beef for Cottage Pie)

1 tbsp olive oil

1 small onion, finely chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 cup carrots, diced

3/4 cup frozen peas

3/4 cup frozen corn

1 tbsp tomato paste

1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

1 tsp dried thyme

1 tsp dried rosemary

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1 cup beef broth

1 tbsp all-purpose flour (or cornstarch for gluten-free)

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed

4 tbsp unsalted butter

1/2 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Cook the Meat:

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

Add ground lamb (or beef) and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

Sauté the Veggies:

Add chopped onion and carrots to the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.

Stir in garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary.

Make the Gravy:

Sprinkle in flour and stir to coat the mixture.

Pour in beef broth, stirring well. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until slightly thickened.

Stir in peas and corn, then remove from heat.

Make the Mashed Potatoes:

Boil the Potatoes:

Place potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 12-15 minutes, until fork-tender.

Drain and return to the pot.

Mash & Season:

Add butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Assemble & Bake:

Layer the Pie:

Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

Spread the meat filling evenly in a baking dish.

Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and smooth with a spatula.

Sprinkle with shredded cheese, if using.

Bake & Serve:

Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown on top.

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy!

Notes

Use ground turkey for a lighter version.
Add a pinch of cayenne or paprika for extra flavor.
Make ahead: Assemble the pie and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.