Shepherd’s pie

Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort food dish from the UK and Ireland — traditionally made with minced lamb (if it’s made with beef, it’s technically cottage pie). It has a savory filling of meat and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden.

Here’s a traditional recipe:

🧑‍🍳 Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Ingredients

For the filling:

• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 large onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup (240 ml) beef or lamb stock

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

• 1 cup frozen peas (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the mashed potato topping:

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 4 tbsp butter

• ½ cup (120 ml) milk or cream

• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional topping:

• ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (for a golden crust)

Instructions

1. Make the mashed potatoes:

   • Boil potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15 minutes).

   • Drain, then mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

2. Prepare the filling:

   • Heat oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat.

   • Add onion and carrots; cook until softened (5–7 minutes).

   • Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

   • Add ground lamb; cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

   • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.

   • Pour in stock and simmer for 10–15 minutes until thickened.

   • Stir in peas near the end (if using).

3. Assemble:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

   • Spread the lamb filling evenly in a baking dish.

   • Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread to cover.

   • (Optional) Sprinkle with grated cheddar.

4. Bake:

   • Bake 20–25 minutes, until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling.

5. Serve:

   • Let rest a few minutes, then serve warm with green beans or peas.

Would you like me to give you a vegetarian or budget-friendly version as well?