Classic Shepherd's Pie
Classic Shepherd's Pie
Shepherd's Pie is the ultimate British comfort food, featuring a savory lamb filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden. Originally created as a way to use leftover roasted meat, this humble dish has become a beloved classic. Note: When made with beef, it's called Cottage Pie. True Shepherd's Pie is always made with lamb - as shepherds tend sheep!
Ingredients
- For the Filling:
- 1.5 lbs ground lamb
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
- 1 cup frozen peas
- For the Topping:
- 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup warm milk
- 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make mashed potatoes: Boil potatoes until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, and half the cheese. Season with salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Cook the lamb: In a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, brown the lamb, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat, leaving about 2 tablespoons.
- Add vegetables: Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
- Build the sauce: Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, and herbs. Simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened. Stir in peas. Season to taste.
- Top with potatoes: Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling. Use a fork to create peaks (they'll get crispy). Sprinkle with remaining cheese.
- Bake: Place in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are golden and filling is bubbling.
- Rest and serve: Let cool for 10 minutes before serving. The filling will be very hot!
Chef's Tips
- Use ground lamb for authentic Shepherd's Pie, or beef for Cottage Pie.
- The filling should be slightly saucy - it will thicken as it bakes.
- For extra crispy top, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Add corn along with peas for an American twist.
- Make ahead and refrigerate - add 15 minutes to baking time if cold.