Hereβs a classic and cozy Shepherdβs Pie recipeβmade the traditional way with ground lamb, savory vegetables, and a fluffy mashed potato topping:
π₯§ Traditional Shepherdβs Pie
Ingredients:
For the Lamb Filling:
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1 lb (450g) ground lamb (sub with ground beef for Cottage Pie)
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1 medium onion, finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 large carrot, diced
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1/2 cup frozen peas
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1/2 tsp dried thyme (or 1 tsp fresh)
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1/2 cup beef or chicken broth
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Salt and pepper to taste
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1 tbsp olive oil or butter
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
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2 lbs (900g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
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2β3 tbsp butter
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1/4 cup milk or cream (adjust to desired creaminess)
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Salt to taste
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Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for a golden topping)
Instructions:
1. Make the Mashed Potatoes:
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Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
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Drain and mash with butter, milk, and salt until smooth. Set aside.
2. Prepare the Lamb Filling:
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In a large skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat.
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SautΓ© onion and carrot until soft (5β7 minutes).
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Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
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Stir in ground lamb and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
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Add tomato paste, Worcestershire, thyme, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in broth and let simmer for 10 minutes until slightly thickened.
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Add peas and cook 2 minutes more. Remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Pie:
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Preheat oven to 400Β°F (200Β°C).
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Spread lamb mixture evenly in a baking dish (8×8 or 9×9 inch).
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Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread to cover the filling.
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Optional: Sprinkle with cheese for a crispy, golden crust.
4. Bake:
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Bake for 20β25 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned and filling is bubbling at the edges.
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For a crispier top, broil the last 2β3 minutes (watch closely).
Serve hot with a side of green beans or a simple salad.
Would you like a vegetarian or sweet potato version of this next?