Traditional Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Traditional Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Meat Filling:
  • 1 pound ground lamb (or beef, for a Cottage Pie)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 cup beef or lamb broth
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon rosemary
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
• For the Mashed Potato Topping:
  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/4 cup milk
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
   • Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
   • Drain and mash with milk, butter, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.
2. Cook the Meat Filling:
   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and carrots, cooking until softened.
   • Add the ground lamb or beef, breaking it up with a spoon until browned.
   • Stir in the garlic, rosemary, and thyme, cooking for another minute.
   • Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and broth, simmering until the juices thicken.
   • Stir in the peas, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the Pie:
   • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
   • Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes over the top, using a fork to create ridges.
   • If using, sprinkle shredded cheese on top.
4. Bake:
   • Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden and the edges are bubbly.
5. Serve:
   • Let the pie cool for a few minutes before serving.

This Shepherd’s Pie recipe provides a delicious combination of savory meat filling with a creamy, cheesy potato topping. It’s a full meal that just needs a simple side salad to round out the dining experience. Enjoy!