Why Make This Recipe
Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish that brings warmth to any table. This classic recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to use up leftover ingredients. It’s simple to make and can easily feed a family or a group of friends. Plus, it’s packed with flavors from the meat, veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes.
How to Make Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients :
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb)
- 2 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Directions :
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, and sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef (or lamb) and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in beef broth and add peas. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with mashed potatoes, spreading to cover the meat mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.
How to Serve Shepherd’s Pie
Shepherd’s Pie can be served warm straight from the oven. It’s great on its own, but you can also add a simple side salad or some crusty bread. Make sure to scoop out generous portions to enjoy all the layers.
How to Store Shepherd’s Pie
If you have leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the oven or in the microwave until heated through.
Tips to Make Shepherd’s Pie
- For extra flavor, add herbs like thyme or rosemary to the meat mixture.
- Use leftovers! Roasted vegetables or different meats can be added to customize it.
- Make the mashed potatoes creamy by mixing in some butter and milk before spreading them on top.
Variation
You can use ground turkey or chicken as a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with lentils or mushrooms cooked with vegetables.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, frozen peas and carrots work well in this recipe. Just add them directly without thawing.
2. How can I make the mashed potatoes ahead of time?
You can prepare mashed potatoes in advance and store them in the refrigerator. Just warm them up before using.
3. Can Shepherd’s Pie be frozen?
Yes, you can freeze it before baking, or after it’s cooked. Just make sure it cools completely before wrapping it tightly and storing it in the freezer.
Shepherd’s Pie
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef (or lamb) Can substitute with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- 2 cups mashed potatoes Make them creamy by mixing in some butter and milk.
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced Frozen peas and carrots can be used directly without thawing.
- 1 cup peas Frozen peas can be used.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
Preparation and Cooking
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and carrots, and sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef (or lamb) and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste and cook for another minute.
- Pour in beef broth and add peas. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 5-10 minutes.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.
- Top with mashed potatoes, spreading to cover the meat mixture.
- Sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
- Let cool slightly before serving.