Description
Traditional Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting and hearty dish featuring a savory ground lamb or beef filling with vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked to golden perfection. This classic recipe is perfect for family dinners and showcases rich flavors and a satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Veggies
- 1.5 lbs ground lamb or beef (lean preferred)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 cup frozen corn
For the Roux and Sauce
- 3 tbsp butter (for roux)
- 3 tbsp flour
- 2 cups beef broth
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tsp thyme
- 1 tsp rosemary
Mashed Potato Topping
- 2 lbs russet potatoes
- ½ cup milk
- 4 tbsp butter (for potatoes)
Instructions
- Prepare and Mash Potatoes: Boil the russet potatoes until tender, then mash them with milk and butter until smooth and creamy. Dice the onion, carrots, and mince the garlic. Keep the mashed potatoes warm for about 20 minutes while you prepare the filling.
- Cook the Meat and Vegetables: In an oven-safe skillet, brown the ground lamb or beef thoroughly. Add the diced onions, carrots, and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the vegetables soften and the meat is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat from the skillet after about 15 minutes.
- Make the Roux and Sauce: In the same skillet, create a roux by melting 3 tablespoons of butter and stirring in 3 tablespoons of flour. Gradually add the beef broth, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens to a gravy-like consistency. Then, stir in the frozen peas, salt, pepper, thyme, and rosemary to season the filling.
- Assemble the Pie and Bake: Spread the savory meat and vegetable mixture evenly in the skillet. Top with the warm mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly. Bake in the oven preheated to 400°F (204°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Check for doneness before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef for lamb if preferred.
- Use fresh vegetables if available; adjust cooking times accordingly.
- For extra flavor, add a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture.
- Let the pie rest for 10 minutes before serving to set the layers.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
