Description
A classic British comfort food, Shepherd’s Pie features a savory ground lamb filling cooked with vegetables and herbs, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, and baked to golden perfection. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners and offers a delicious way to enjoy traditional flavors with a gluten-free twist.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1 pound ground lamb
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves or ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ cup frozen peas
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Mashed Potato Topping
- 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ¼ cup milk
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots, cooking for 5 to 7 minutes until they become soft and aromatic.
- Brown the Lamb: Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon to ensure even cooking.
- Add Flavorings and Simmer: Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and thyme. Let the mixture simmer for 10 to 12 minutes until it thickens slightly, then stir in frozen peas. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Prepare Mashed Potatoes: While the meat simmers, boil the peeled and cubed potatoes in salted water for 15 to 20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter, milk, and salt until smooth and creamy.
- Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top and spread it evenly, using a fork to create texture on the surface.
- Bake: Bake the assembled pie for 20 to 25 minutes until the mashed potatoes are lightly golden and the filling bubbles around the edges.
- Rest and Serve: Let the Shepherd’s Pie cool for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to set.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef for lamb if preferred for a slightly different flavor.
- For a creamier mashed potato topping, add a splash of heavy cream when mashing.
- To make ahead, assemble the pie and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking.
