Absolutely! Here’s a classic Shepherd’s Pie recipe — hearty, comforting, and topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Traditionally made with ground lamb, but you can easily use ground beef (technically a Cottage Pie in that case) — both versions are delicious!
🥘 Classic Shepherd’s Pie
🍖 Savory meat & veggie filling topped with fluffy mashed potatoes and baked until golden
Servings: 6 | Prep Time: 25 min | Cook Time: 25–30 min
🧾 Ingredients
For the Meat Filling:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb ground lamb (or ground beef for Cottage Pie)
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1 onion, finely chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 cup frozen peas
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1 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 tsp fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)
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1 tsp fresh rosemary (or 1/2 tsp dried)
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1/2 cup beef broth
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1 tbsp flour to thicken
For the Mashed Potato Topping:
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2 lbs potatoes, peeled and chopped
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4 tbsp butter
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1/3 cup milk (or cream)
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Salt & pepper, to taste
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Optional: 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (for extra richness)
👩🍳 Instructions
1️⃣ 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, salt, and pepper.
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Stir in cheese (optional). Set aside.
2️⃣ Prepare the Filling:
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In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
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Add onion and carrots, sauté 3–4 minutes until softened.
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Add garlic, cook 1 minute.
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Add ground lamb or beef, cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
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Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire, thyme, and rosemary.
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Add peas and broth, simmer for 5–7 minutes.
Optional: Stir in 1 tbsp flour to slightly thicken. -
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3️⃣ Assemble the Pie:
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Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
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Spread the meat mixture evenly in a 9×9″ baking dish or similar.
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Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading to cover completely.
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Use a fork to create texture on top (helps with browning).
4️⃣ Bake:
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Bake for 25–30 minutes, or until the top is golden and filling is bubbling.
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Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end if you want a crispier potato crust.
5️⃣ Serve:
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Let rest for 5–10 minutes before scooping.
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Great with crusty bread or a green salad on the side.
✅ Tips & Variations:
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Add corn or green beans to the filling if desired.
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For creamier potatoes, mix in sour cream or cream cheese.
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Want to make it ahead? Assemble and refrigerate for up to 2 days, then bake.
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Freezer-friendly! Assemble, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months.