Traditional Shepherd's Pie

🕒 Prep: 30 min
🔥 Cook: 45 min
🍽 Serves: 6
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Traditional Shepherd's Pie is a comforting classic that brings together hearty flavors and creamy textures. It's perfect for cozy dinners and a great way to enjoy a taste of home-cooked goodness. This recipe focuses on simplicity and flavor, making it ideal for both new cooks and seasoned chefs alike.

Ingredients for Traditional Shepherd's Pie

Olive oil serves as the base for sautéing, adding a subtle richness. Onion and garlic provide aromatic depth to the dish. Ground lamb is the star, offering a hearty and rich flavor profile. Tomato paste and beef stock create a savory sauce, enhanced by the umami of Worcestershire sauce. Frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness. On top, potatoes are mashed with milk and butter to create a creamy, fluffy crust. Finally, salt and pepper bring everything together, enhancing the natural flavors.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a crispier top, broil the pie for a few minutes after baking.
  • For extra flavor, add a pinch of thyme or rosemary to the lamb mixture.
  • Leftover mashed potatoes work beautifully for this recipe.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Shepherd's Pie with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad to balance the meal. A glass of red wine, like a Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon, pairs wonderfully with the rich flavors of the lamb.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ground beef instead of lamb?
Absolutely! Ground beef is a great substitute if you prefer it or if it's more readily available.
How can I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave before serving.
Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie?
Yes, you can freeze it after baking. Allow it to cool completely, cover tightly, and freeze for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in the oven until hot throughout.

Traditional Shepherd's Pie Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your oven to 400°F. As it warms up, grab a large skillet and heat up a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in your finely chopped onion, letting it soften for about five minutes. You'll know it's ready when it's translucent and fragrant.

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet, giving it a good stir for about a minute to release its aroma. Now, in goes the ground lamb. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks through and browns. This should take about 7–10 minutes.

Once the lamb is nicely browned, stir in the tomato paste, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, and season generously with salt and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens a bit. Stir in the peas right at the end.

While your lamb mixture is simmering, it’s time to prepare the mashed potatoes. Boil the chopped potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they're fork-tender, which takes around 20 minutes. Drain them well, then mash with milk and butter until creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Now, layer the lamb mixture evenly into a baking dish, spreading it out gently. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the top, smoothing them out with a spatula. Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 25 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown.

Once baked, let your Shepherd's Pie cool for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together perfectly.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Uses simple, everyday ingredients you probably already have.
  • Perfect balance of savory lamb and creamy potatoes.
  • Easy to prepare ahead of time and pop in the oven when needed.
  • A family favorite that appeals to all ages.

Ingredients

1 tblsp olive oil
1 large onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 lbs ground lamb
2 tblsp tomato paste
1 cup beef stock
2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
1 cup frozen peas
2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup milk
3 tblsp unsalted butter
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add ground lamb, cooking until browned and breaking it apart with a spoon.
6. Mix in tomato paste, beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Simmer the mixture for 15 minutes, then stir in peas.
8. Boil the potatoes in a large pot until fork-tender, about 20 minutes.
9. Drain the potatoes and mash them with milk and butter, seasoning with salt and pepper.
10. Spread the lamb mixture in a baking dish and top with the mashed potatoes.
11. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
12. Let the Shepherd's Pie cool slightly before serving.

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