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Beef shepherd's pie

This recipe will guide you through making a delicious and comforting beef shepherd's pie, topped with fluffy mashed potatoes.
Servings 6
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes

Ingredients

For the Meat Filling

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1 pound ground beef or lamb
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 1/4 cup Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping

  • 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/2 cup milk (or more, if needed)
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Vegetables

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
  • Add the diced carrots and celery to the skillet. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly softened.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

  • Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef (or lamb) to the skillet. Use a spoon or spatula to break the meat apart. Cook until the meat is browned and no longer pink. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.

Step 3: Add Flavor and Thicken

  • Stir in the dried thyme and rosemary into the meat mixture. Cook for about 1 minute more, until fragrant.
  • Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the meat and vegetables. Stir well and cook for 1-2 minutes, allowing the flour to coat everything. This will help thicken the sauce.

Step 4: Make the Gravy

  • Gradually pour in the beef broth, scraping the bottom of the skillet to loosen any browned bits. Stir in the frozen peas and Worcestershire sauce (if using).
  • Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 10-15 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly and the vegetables are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Cook the Potatoes

  • While the meat filling is simmering, prepare the mashed potatoes. Place the peeled and quartered potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold, salted water.
  • Bring the water to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and cook until the potatoes are fork-tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Step 6: Mash the Potatoes

  • Drain the potatoes well in a colander. Return them to the empty pot. Add the butter and mash the potatoes with a potato masher or an electric mixer until smooth.
  • Gradually add the milk, mixing until the potatoes are creamy and reach your desired consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the grated cheddar cheese if using.

Step 7: Assemble the Shepherd's Pie

  • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    Pour the meat filling into the bottom of a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread it out evenly.
  • Spoon the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling. You can create swirls or peaks with a fork for a more visually appealing top.

Step 8: Bake the Shepherd's Pie

  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is lightly golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

Step 9: Rest and Serve

  • Remove the shepherd's pie from the oven and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This will allow the filling to set slightly and make it easier to serve.

Notes

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What’s the difference between Shepherd’s Pie and Cottage Pie?

  • Shepherd’s Pie traditionally uses lamb, while Cottage Pie uses beef. However, many people now use the terms interchangeably.

2. Can I make Beef Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?

  • Yes! Assemble the pie, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days before baking.

3. Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?

  • Absolutely. Freeze before or after baking. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.

4. What can I substitute for mashed potatoes?

  • Try sweet potato mash or cauliflower mash for a lighter version.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 420
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbs: 35g
  • Fat: 22g
  • Fiber: 5g

Special Notes & Tips

🔹 For Extra Flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the beef filling.
🔹 Crispy Topping: Broil for the last 2-3 minutes for a golden crust.
🔹 Vegetarian Option: Swap beef for lentils or mushrooms.
Calories: 420kcal
Course: Breakfast, Brunch, Lunch, Dinner