Shepherd’s pie

Here’s a classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe — hearty, savory, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. 🥔🍖

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Shepherd’s Pie

Servings: 6

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 45–50 minutes

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Ingredients:

For the filling:

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 cup carrots, diced

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 cup beef or chicken broth

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 tsp thyme (dried or fresh)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the mashed potato topping:

• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared from about 2 lbs potatoes)

• 2 tbsp butter

• ¼ cup milk (adjust for desired creaminess)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Preheat oven:

   • Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).

2. Cook the filling:

   • Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

   • Sauté onions and garlic until translucent.

   • Add ground lamb (or beef) and cook until browned; drain excess fat.

   • Stir in carrots, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper.

   • Add broth and simmer for 5–7 minutes until slightly thickened.

   • Stir in peas at the end.

3. Prepare mashed potatoes:

   • Mash boiled potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy.

4. Assemble the pie:

   • Spread the meat and vegetable mixture evenly in a baking dish.

   • Top with mashed potatoes, spreading to cover completely.

   • Optional: Use a fork to create texture on top for browning.

5. Bake:

   • Bake for 20–25 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

6. Serve:

   • Let cool slightly before serving.

   • Serve with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables.

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Tips & Variations:

• 🥔 Cheesy topping: Mix ½ cup shredded cheddar into mashed potatoes before baking.

• 🌿 Herb twist: Add rosemary or parsley to the meat mixture for extra flavor.

• 🥕 Extra veggies: Include corn, green beans, or mushrooms in the filling.

• 🥘 Make-ahead: Assemble in advance and refrigerate; bake when ready.

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I can also provide a slow cooker Shepherd’s Pie version that’s even easier and fully hands-off. Do you want that version?