Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless comfort food that combines a savory ground lamb mixture with a creamy mashed potato topping. This dish is perfect for cozy family dinners and gatherings, offering a hearty and satisfying meal that everyone will love.

Preparation Time:

  • Preparation Time: 30 minutes
  • Cook Time: 55-60 minutes
  • Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Ingredients:

For the Meat Mixture:

  • 2 pounds (1kg) ground lamb
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, crushed
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 4 tablespoons (30g) flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 2 cups beef broth
  • 7 ounces (200g) carrots, diced
  • 7 ounces (200g) peas (fresh or frozen)

For the Puree:

  • 3.5 pounds (1.5kg) potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup (120ml) milk
  • 1/4 cup (25g) shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 egg yolk

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the Oven:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Prepare the Meat Mixture:
    • In a large skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onions and crushed garlic, sautéing until the onions are translucent.
    • Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
    • Sprinkle the flour over the meat mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
    • Season the meat mixture with salt, black pepper, dried rosemary, dried thyme, and tomato paste. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
    • Pour in the beef broth, add the diced carrots and peas, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cook for about 10-15 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the sauce has thickened. Remove from heat and set aside.
  3. Prepare the Potato Puree:
    • While the meat mixture is simmering, boil the peeled and diced potatoes in a pot of salted water until fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.
    • Drain the cooked potatoes and return them to the pot. Add the butter, milk, shredded cheddar cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mash the potatoes until smooth and creamy. Adjust seasoning if needed.
    • In a small bowl, beat the egg yolk.
  4. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
    • Transfer the cooked meat mixture to a baking dish and spread it evenly.
    • Spread the mashed potato puree over the meat mixture, smoothing the top with a spatula.
    • Brush the top of the mashed potatoes with the beaten egg yolk for a golden crust.
  5. Bake:
    • Bake the Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
    • Remove from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions:

  • With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well with the richness of Shepherd’s Pie.
  • With Steamed Vegetables: Serve with steamed green beans, broccoli, or Brussels sprouts for added nutrition.
  • With Crusty Bread: A side of crusty bread can help soak up the delicious gravy.

Cooking Tips:

  • Use Fresh Herbs: If available, fresh rosemary and thyme can enhance the flavor of the meat mixture.
  • Cheese Variation: Try using different cheeses like Gruyère or Parmesan for a unique twist on the mashed potato topping.
  • Prep Ahead: You can prepare the meat mixture and mashed potatoes a day in advance, then assemble and bake when ready to serve.

Nutritional Benefits:

  • Protein: Lamb is a great source of high-quality protein.
  • Vitamins: Carrots and peas provide vitamins A, C, and K, as well as fiber.
  • Calcium: Cheddar cheese adds calcium, which is important for bone health.
  • Complex Carbohydrates: Potatoes provide complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.

Dietary Information:

  • Gluten-Free: To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free flour blend.
  • Dairy-Free: Substitute the butter and milk in the potato puree with dairy-free alternatives, and omit the cheese.
  • Low-Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, replace the mashed potatoes with mashed cauliflower.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

This Shepherd’s Pie is a delightful blend of flavors and textures, combining savory lamb, aromatic herbs, and creamy mashed potatoes. It’s a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. The recipe is versatile and can be adjusted to accommodate various dietary preferences, making it a go-to for family dinners and special occasions alike.

Conclusion:

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic dish that never fails to deliver on comfort and flavor. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. With its hearty ingredients and delicious seasoning, it’s a meal that brings everyone to the table. Enjoy the rich, savory goodness of Shepherd’s Pie and savor each bite of this timeless favorite.