The Best Classic Shepherd Pie Recipe

Classic Shepherd Pie, often referred to as Cottage Pie when made with beef, is a traditional dish that brings warmth and comfort to the dinner table. Originating from the British Isles, this dish is a delicious combination of a rich meat filling topped with a creamy mashed potato crust. The savory meat filling is typically made with ground lamb or beef, cooked with vegetables like carrots and peas, and seasoned with aromatic herbs such as thyme and rosemary. The creamy mashed potatoes on top create the perfect contrast to the hearty filling beneath. Ideal for a cozy family dinner, Classic Shepherd Pie is a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor.

Ingredients for Classic Shepherd Pie

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1/4 cup butter
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions for Classic Shepherd Pie

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

• Begin by preparing the mashed potato topping. Place the peeled and cubed potatoes in a large pot and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes until they are fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
• Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash the potatoes, adding milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Season the mashed potatoes with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside while you prepare the meat filling.

2. Prepare the Meat Filling:

• Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
• Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until browned, and drain any excess fat from the skillet if necessary.
• Stir in the tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce, allowing it to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes for the flavors to meld.
• Add the diced carrots, peas, broth, thyme, rosemary, and season with salt and pepper. Allow the mixture to simmer for 10-15 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the filling has thickened.

3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Transfer the prepared meat filling into an oven-safe baking dish, spreading it evenly across the bottom.
• Carefully spread the mashed potatoes over the meat filling, smoothing it with a spatula. If desired, use a fork to create decorative ridges or patterns on top of the potatoes, which will help them brown nicely in the oven.

4. Bake:

• Place the assembled Shepherd’s Pie in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges.
• For an extra crispy top, you can broil the pie for an additional 2-3 minutes at the end of the baking time.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

• Remove the Shepherd’s Pie from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set and ensures that each slice holds together well when plated.
• Serve warm and enjoy this comforting and hearty dish with family or friends.

Prep Time:

• 20 minutes

Cook Time:

• 30 minutes

Total Time:

• 50 minutes

Calories:

• Approximately 400 kcal per serving (based on 6 servings)

Tips for Perfect Classic Shepherd Pie

• Use fresh herbs for an extra punch of flavor. Fresh thyme and rosemary can elevate the dish, making it more aromatic.
• Make it ahead of time. Shepherd’s Pie is a great make-ahead meal. You can assemble the pie in advance and refrigerate it, then bake when you’re ready to serve. It also freezes well.
• Broil for extra crispiness. If you want an extra golden and crispy top, switch your oven to broil for the last few minutes of baking.
• Add cheese to the topping for a cheesy twist. You can sprinkle some grated cheddar on top of the mashed potatoes before baking to create a delicious cheesy crust.

Benefits of Classic Shepherd Pie

• Balanced nutrition: Classic Shepherd Pie offers a good balance of protein, vegetables, and carbohydrates, making it a nutritious meal option.
• Comfort food: The creamy mashed potatoes paired with the savory meat filling provide a comforting, satisfying meal, perfect for colder days.
• Great for meal prep: This dish stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for leftovers or meal prep.
• Customizable: You can customize the filling by using your favorite vegetables, or swap ground beef for ground turkey or lamb, depending on your preferences.

Conclusion

Classic Shepherd Pie is a classic comfort dish that continues to be a favorite for good reason. With its rich meat filling and creamy mashed potato topping, it’s a meal that brings satisfaction with every bite. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or preparing it ahead of time for an easy family meal, Shepherd’s Pie is sure to become a beloved staple in your kitchen. The versatility of the recipe means you can easily adapt it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences, making it a go-to dish for any occasion. Enjoy!

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