Warm, hearty, and comforting, this Shepherd’s Pie recipe is the ultimate comfort food. Layers of savory ground meat, tender vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes come together to create a classic dish that’s perfect for cozy family dinners or meal prep. Easy to make and full of flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll turn to again and again!
Ingredients You’ll Need for Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
For the Meat Filling:
- 1 lb ground lamb or ground beef
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or chicken stock
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
1. Prepare the Meat Filling:
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the ground meat until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Add the onion, garlic, and carrots, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the stock and let the mixture simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the peas in the last few minutes of cooking.
2. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
- Boil the diced potatoes in a large pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes. Drain well.
- Mash the potatoes with butter, milk, and Parmesan cheese until smooth and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the meat filling evenly in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out to cover the meat layer completely. Use a fork to create decorative ridges if desired.
4. Bake:
- Bake the Shepherd’s Pie for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and slightly crisp.
- Let it cool for 5 minutes before serving.
Why This Recipe Works
- Classic Comfort: The rich meat filling paired with fluffy mashed potatoes makes for a satisfying meal.
- Easy to Customize: Swap lamb for beef or add your favorite vegetables for a personalized touch.
- Perfect for Leftovers: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep.
Pro Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
- Fluffier Potatoes: Use starchy potatoes like Russets for the creamiest mash.
- Even Baking: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly and avoid sealing the edges to prevent bubbling over.
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle shredded cheese over the top for an extra layer of indulgence.
Serving Suggestions for Shepherd’s Pie
- Pair with a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve alongside crusty bread to soak up the flavorful meat juices.
- Add a glass of red wine for an elegant touch.
Storage Guidelines
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, cover tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.
- Reheat: Bake from frozen or thaw overnight and reheat in the oven until warmed through.
