Hey there my friend 👋. You’re about to make the best shepherd’s pie you’ve ever had. I’m going to show you a simple way to make it, with a few tricks that make it extra tasty.
And oh, by the way, I’ll also tell you how to save time while making it.
Utensils You Need
These are the utensils and/or equipment you need to make this recipe:
- Large skillet
- Potato masher
- Mixing bowls
- Baking dish (9×13 inches)
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Important Info
- Servings: 6 portions
- Estimated Cost: Around $12 for the whole dish
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Calories per Serving: About 400
- Cook Method: Baking
- Season: Perfect for Fall and Winter
- Courses: Main Course
- Cuisine: British
- Diets: Not suitable for Vegetarian, Vegan, or Gluten-Free diets
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
Now I am going to tell you what ingredients you need to make this dish and how to make it.
Ingredients You Need
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- ½ cup frozen peas
- ½ cup corn kernels
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- ½ cup beef broth
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
- ¼ cup milk
- 2 tbsp butter
- ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)
Alternative Ingredients
If you do not have the ingredients I listed above, do not worry. You can swap them out for the alternatives below.
| Original Ingredient | Alternative Option |
|---|---|
| Ground lamb | Ground beef or turkey |
| Worcestershire sauce | Soy sauce + a pinch of sugar |
| Beef broth | Chicken or vegetable broth |
| Butter | Olive oil or margarine |
| Shredded cheese | Parmesan or omit completely |
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet, cook the ground lamb over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the Veggies: Stir in the chopped onions, garlic, and carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes until the onions are soft.
- Flavor It Up: Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Stir well and let it simmer for 5 minutes.
- Mix in the Peas and Corn: Add the frozen peas and corn, stir, and turn off the heat.
- Make the Mashed Potatoes: Boil the potatoes in salted water until soft (about 15 minutes). Drain, then mash them with milk and butter until smooth.
- Assemble the Pie: Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top and spread them out. If using cheese, sprinkle it over the top.
- Bake: Place in a preheated oven at 375°F and bake for 20 minutes or until the top is slightly golden.
- Serve: Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Helpful Tips
- For extra creamy mashed potatoes, use a hand mixer instead of a masher.
- Want a crispy top? Brush a little melted butter over the mashed potatoes before baking.
- If you’re short on time, use instant mashed potatoes instead of fresh ones.
- Make it ahead: Prepare the filling and mashed potatoes separately, then assemble and bake when ready.
What to Serve with Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
This dish is already a full meal, but you can serve it with a side of steamed green beans, a simple salad, or warm dinner rolls.
How Do You Serve the Recipe?
A big spoon works best for scooping out portions from the baking dish. Serve on plates with a side of fresh greens or warm bread.
Where Do You Serve This Recipe the Most?
Shepherd’s pie is great for family dinners, holiday meals, and cozy gatherings. It’s also perfect for meal prepping because it reheats well.
Storage
Short-term Storage (Room Temperature)
- Let the shepherd’s pie cool completely before storing.
- Keep it covered at room temperature for up to 2 hours. After that, it should be refrigerated.
Refrigeration
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat in the oven at 350°F for about 15 minutes or in the microwave for 2-3 minutes per serving.
Freezing
- To freeze, wrap the baking dish tightly in plastic wrap and foil.
- Store for up to 3 months.
- Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat in the oven before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make shepherd’s pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it up to 2 days in advance. Just assemble everything, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.
Can I use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes?
Yes, sweet potatoes work great and add a slightly sweeter taste to the dish.
Can I make shepherd’s pie without an oven?
Yes, you can cook the filling and mashed potatoes as usual, then layer them in a skillet, cover, and let it cook on low for about 10 minutes.
What’s the difference between shepherd’s pie and cottage pie?
Shepherd’s pie is made with lamb, while cottage pie is made with beef.
Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen veggies like peas and corn work perfectly for this recipe. Just add them directly to the skillet without thawing.
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