Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Indulge in the comfort of a classic Shepherd’s Pie, perfect for any dinner. With its rich, meaty filling and creamy mashed potato topping, this dish is a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
For the Meat Filling:
Ground Beef or Lamb: 1 lb (450 g)
Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
Carrots: 2 medium, diced
Peas and Corn: 1 cup each, frozen
Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon
Beef Broth: 1 cup
Fresh Thyme: 1 teaspoon
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Olive Oil: For cooking
For the Potato Topping:
Potatoes: 4 large, peeled and cubed
Butter: 4 tablespoons
Heavy Cream: 1/4 cup
Salt and Pepper: To taste
Cheddar Cheese (optional): 1/2 cup, grated
Instructions:
Prepare the Filling:
Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and carrots, cooking until they are softened.
Add Ground Meat: Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or lamb, breaking it up with a spoon until it browns.
Season: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and fresh thyme. Cook for 2 minutes.
Simmer: Pour in the beef broth, bring to a simmer, and let the liquid reduce for about 10 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas and corn in the last 3 minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper.
Prepare the Potato Topping:
Boil Potatoes: Place the potatoes in a pot of salted water. Bring to a boil and cook until they are tender, about 15 minutes.
Mash: Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and heavy cream until smooth. Season with salt and pepper.
Assemble and Bake:
Layer the Pie: In a baking dish, spread the meat mixture evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top and smooth them out with a fork to create a textured surface.
Bake: If using, sprinkle grated cheese over the mashed potatoes. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Serve:
Cool Slightly: Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps it set and makes it easier to serve.
Garnish: Optionally, sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness.
Enjoy your homemade Shepherd’s Pie with a side of fresh bread or a simple green salad for a complete and comforting meal.
