classic Shepherd’s Pie!

Classic Shepherd’s Pie — a traditional dish made with seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes, all baked to golden perfection. 🥔🥩

🥧 Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Rich, savory meat and veggie filling topped with smooth, buttery mashed potatoes and baked until golden and bubbling.

🧾 Ingredients (Serves 6)

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter

• 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• ½ cup frozen peas

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• ½ cup beef broth

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

• 1 tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary or ½ tsp dried rosemary

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 1½ lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed

• 4 tbsp butter

• ¼ cup milk or cream

• Salt and pepper to taste

• Optional: ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

👩‍🍳 Instructions

✅ Step 1: Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes.

2. Drain and mash with butter, milk/cream, salt, and pepper. Set aside.

✅ Step 2: Cook the Meat Filling

1. In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat.

2. Add onion and carrots; sauté for 5 minutes.

3. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.

4. Add ground lamb (or beef); cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.

5. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

6. Let simmer for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

7. Stir in peas and remove from heat.

✅ Step 3: Assemble and Bake

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish (8×8″ or similar).

3. Spoon mashed potatoes on top and smooth with a spatula.

4. Optional: Sprinkle cheddar cheese on top for extra richness.

5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until golden and bubbly.

6. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a crisp top (optional).

⏱️ Time Guide

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Cook Time: 35 minutes

• Total Time: ~55 minutes

✅ Tips

• Use lamb for authentic shepherd’s pie, or beef for cottage pie.

• Add a dash of red wine or balsamic vinegar to the meat for depth of flavor.

• Let it rest for 5–10 minutes before serving for easier slicing.