Shepherd’s pie

Here’s a classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe—a comforting, hearty dish made with savory ground meat, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping. Traditionally, it’s made with lamb (hence “shepherd”), but beef works too (then it’s technically a cottage pie).

Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

For the mashed potato topping:

• 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1/4 cup milk (or more, for desired creaminess)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional, for a golden topping)

For the filling:

• 1 lb ground lamb or beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp flour (for thickening)
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender (about 15-20 minutes).
   • Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the onions, carrots, and celery; sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook 1 minute more.
   • Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
   • Stir in the flour and cook 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw taste.
   • Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and broth. Stir and simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
   • Fold in the peas, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spread the meat and vegetable filling in an even layer in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
   • Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top, smoothing with a spatula. You can use a fork to create a textured surface for browning.
   • Optional: Sprinkle grated cheddar cheese on top.
4. Bake:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden and slightly crispy around the edges.
   • Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Tips:

• Vegetarian version: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat and vegetable broth instead of beef.
• Extra flavor: Add a splash of cream or sour cream to mashed potatoes for richness.
• Make ahead: You can assemble it a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

This Shepherd’s Pie is hearty, comforting, and perfect for a family dinner.

If you want, I can also give you a quick Air Fryer version that makes it even faster to bake! Do you want me to do that?