Description

Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food, combining a rich, savory meat filling with a creamy mashed potato topping. This classic dish is perfect for cold evenings, bringing warmth and nostalgia to the table. Whether made with lamb (traditional) or ground beef, it’s a hearty meal loved by many.

Ingredients

Scale

Meat Filling:

1 ½ lbs ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
1 large yellow onion, diced
2 large carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
¼ cup tomato paste
½ cup red wine (or water)
3 tbsp all-purpose flour
2 cups beef stock/broth
1 cup frozen peas
1 cup frozen corn
3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
2 tbsp unsalted butter
1 tsp kosher salt
¼ tsp black pepper

Potato Topping:

2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
⅔ cup half-and-half
4 tbsp unsalted butter
3 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
1 tsp garlic powder
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling

Heat 2 tbsp of butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the onion, carrots, celery, salt, and pepper. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the paste darkens.
Deglaze the pan with red wine (or water), cooking for 2-3 minutes until mostly evaporated.
Sprinkle in the flour, stirring to coat the mixture. Cook for another 2 minutes.
Pour in the beef stock and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes until thickened.
Stir in the frozen peas and corn, then remove from heat.

Step 2: Make the Mashed Potato Topping

Boil the potatoes in salted water for 12-15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain.
Mash the potatoes, then add half-and-half, butter, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until smooth.

Step 3: Assemble & Bake

Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
Spread the meat filling evenly in a casserole dish.
Spoon and spread the mashed potatoes over the top, sealing the edges.
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.
Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

Make Ahead: Assemble the dish and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.
Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as directed.

Variations: Try adding shredded cheese on top for extra flavor. Use mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes for a lighter version.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes
Category: Main Dish
Method: Baking
Cuisine: British, Irish

Keywords: shepherd's pie, cottage pie, comfort food, mashed potatoes, ground beef, lamb recipe