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Classic Shepherd's Pie

Prep Time: 30 minutes Cook Time: 45 minutes Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes Servings: 6 Difficulty: Easy
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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. Add vegetables: Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. Bake: Place in a 400°F (200°C) oven for 25-30 minutes until potatoes are golden and filling is bubbling.
  7. 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.

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