Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is pure comfort food — rich, savory meat topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. Here’s a classic version you can make at home, with tips for shortcuts or customization.

🥧 Classic Shepherd’s Pie (with Lamb)

🕒 Time: ~1 hour
🍽 Serves: 4–6

🥩 Ingredients

Meat Filling:

• 500g (1 lb) ground lamb (or beef for “cottage pie”)

• 1 onion, finely chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

• 1 tsp rosemary (optional)

• ½ cup beef or vegetable stock

• Salt & pepper to taste

• 1 cup frozen peas (add at the end)

Mashed Potato Topping:

• 800g (1¾ lbs) potatoes, peeled and chopped

• 2–3 tbsp butter

• ¼ cup milk or cream

• Salt to taste

• (Optional) Grated cheese for topping (cheddar or parmesan)

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. Make the meat filling:

• In a large skillet, brown the lamb over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.

• Add onion, carrot, and garlic. Sauté 5–7 minutes until soft.

• Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and rosemary. Cook 2 mins.

• Pour in the stock. Simmer for 10–15 mins until thickened.

• Stir in peas, then remove from heat. Taste and season.

2. Make the mashed potatoes:

• Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (~15 mins).

• Drain and mash with butter and milk. Season with salt. Make it smooth but not too wet.

3. Assemble:

• Spread the meat filling in a baking dish.

• Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and spread evenly.

• Use a fork to make ridges (helps with browning).

• (Optional) Sprinkle grated cheese on top.

4. Bake:

• Bake at 200°C / 400°F for 20–25 minutes or until golden and bubbling.

• Finish under the grill for 2–3 mins if you want a crispy top.

✅ Tips & Variations:

• Shortcut: Use leftover mashed potatoes or pre-made mash.

• Vegetarian version: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat.

• Freeze: Assemble ahead and freeze unbaked for later (just add extra baking time from frozen).

• Air fryer version: You can do individual mini shepherd’s pies in ramekins in the air fryer at 180°C for 15–20 mins.