Of course! This is a classic comfort food that’s easier to make than you might think. This recipe is straightforward, hearty, and perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Here is an easy-to-follow recipe for a delicious and comforting Shepherd’s Pie.
Classic Easy Shepherd’s Pie
This recipe uses ground beef (making it technically a “Cottage Pie”), which is more common in the US. For a traditional Shepherd’s Pie, simply substitute ground lamb for the beef.
Prep Time: 20 mins
Cook Time: 35 mins
Total Time: 55 mins
Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
· 2 lbs (about 4-5 medium) russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and quartered
· 1/2 cup whole milk or warm heavy cream
· 4 tablespoons butter
· 1/2 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional, for extra creaminess)
· 1 tsp salt, or to taste
· 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Meat Filling:
· 1 tablespoon olive oil
· 1 large onion, finely chopped
· 2 carrots, finely diced
· 2 cloves garlic, minced
· 1.5 lbs ground beef or lamb
· 1 cup frozen peas
· 2 tablespoons tomato paste
· 1 cup beef broth
· 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
· 1 tsp dried thyme or rosemary
· Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Potatoes: Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot of cold, salted water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender.
- Sauté Aromatics: While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant.
- Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain off any excess fat.
- Simmer the Filling: Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute. Pour in the beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Add the thyme, frozen peas, and salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for about 5-10 minutes, until the sauce has thickened slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove from heat.
- Mash the Potatoes: Drain the cooked potatoes well and return them to the hot pot. Let them sit for a minute to steam off any excess moisture. Mash them until smooth. Add the butter, warm milk, and sour cream (if using). Mash until creamy. Season well with salt and pepper.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat your broiler. If your meat filling isn’t already in an oven-safe dish, transfer it to one now (like a 9×9 baking dish or a pie dish). Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top of the meat filling. Use a fork to create swirls on the top—this will create lovely crispy bits when broiled.
- Broil to Perfection: Place the dish under the broiler for 3-5 minutes, watching closely, until the potato topping is golden brown and crispy on top.
- Serve: Let the Shepherd’s Pie rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps the filling set, making it easier to scoop.
Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie
· Cheesy Topping: For a cheesy crust, sprinkle a handful of shredded cheddar or parmesan cheese over the potatoes before broiling.
· Make Ahead: You can assemble the entire pie a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, or until bubbly and hot, then finish under the broiler.
· Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like corn, green beans, or celery to the filling.
· Creamier Potatoes: For ultra-smooth potatoes, use a ricer or food mill before adding the wet ingredients.
· No Oven-Safe Skillet? No problem! Just transfer the meat filling to a standard 9×9 or similar baking dish before topping with the potatoes.
Enjoy your delicious, homemade comfort food