Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Meta Description: Learn how to make the ultimate comfort food with our classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe. This hearty dish combines savory minced meat with a creamy mashed potato topping.

Keywords: Shepherd’s Pie Recipe, Traditional Shepherd’s Pie, Easy Comfort Food, Meat and Potatoes Recipe

Introduction: Shepherd’s Pie, a comforting and hearty dish originating from the United Kingdom, is the perfect meal for any occasion. Traditionally made with minced lamb (when made with beef, it’s called Cottage Pie), this dish features a flavorful mix of meat and vegetables, topped with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Follow this simple recipe to create a delicious meal that will satisfy and warm you from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• For the Meat Filling:
  • 1 pound ground lamb (or ground beef for Cottage Pie)
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Mashed Potato Topping:
  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 20 minutes.
   • Drain and return the potatoes to the pot.
   • Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
2. Make the Meat Filling:
   • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   • Add the onion and carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
   • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground lamb. Cook until browned.
   • Stir in the tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
   • Stir in the frozen peas and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top, creating a seal around the edges to prevent the mixture from bubbling over.
   • Use a fork to create ridges on the mashed potatoes if desired.
4. Bake:
   • Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown.
5. Serve:
   • Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.

Conclusion: This Shepherd’s Pie recipe is not just fulfilling but also packs a nutritional punch. It’s perfect for feeding a family, providing comfort on a chilly evening, or impressing guests with your culinary prowess.

Nutritional Breakdown: Per serving (assuming 6 servings):

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Protein: 24 grams
• Fat: 27 grams
• Carbohydrates: 35 grams
• Fiber: 5 grams
• Sugar: 5 grams

Health Benefits:

• High in Protein: Essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Rich in Vitamins: Carrots and peas provide beta-carotene, vitamin C, and other essential nutrients.
• Provides Iron: Lamb is a good source of iron, which is crucial for blood health.

FAQs:

• Can I make this dish vegetarian? Yes, you can substitute the meat with a mixture of lentils and additional vegetables for a vegetarian version.
• How long can I store Shepherd’s Pie? Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Enjoy making and serving this classic Shepherd’s Pie, a true comfort food that combines simplicity with deep, satisfying flavors!