Indulge in the warmth of a classic shepherd’s pie, a dish that brings together ground meat, hearty vegetables, and a topping of creamy mashed potatoes. This comforting meal is perfect for chilly evenings and is sure to please the whole family. With its rich flavors and satisfying texture, this shepherd’s pie recipe will become a staple in your household. Get ready to dive into this deliciously easy recipe!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 4 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, while cooking time is around 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the pie) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. This is based on a standard serving size for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil the peeled potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat.
4. Add chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking until softened.
5. Stir in peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
6. Mix in the tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
7. Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
8. Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and milk until smooth.
9. Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
10. Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them out. Use a fork to create texture.
11. Bake in the oven for 20-25 minutes until golden brown on top.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option, and use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a healthier twist. Additionally, adding other vegetables like corn or green beans can enhance the dish.
Serving and Pairings
Shepherd’s pie pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. A side of crusty bread can also complement the meal, perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover shepherd’s pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can be reheated in the oven or microwave. You can also freeze individual portions for up to 2 months, making it a convenient meal option.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the potatoes; they should be tender but not mushy.
– Ensure the meat is browned well for better flavor.
– Avoid using too much liquid in the meat mixture to prevent a soggy crust.
– Season your mashed potatoes adequately for flavor.
– Don’t skip the baking step; it adds a delicious crust.
– Allow the pie to rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.
Helpful Tips
– For a richer flavor, use a combination of lamb and beef.
– Add a sprinkle of cheese on top of the mashed potatoes for extra richness.
– Use fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary to enhance the flavor.
– Make it a day ahead and reheat for even better taste.
FAQs
Can I use vegetables other than peas in shepherd’s pie?
Yes, you can substitute peas with other vegetables like corn, green beans, or bell peppers to suit your taste.
Is shepherd’s pie gluten-free?
Yes, as long as you use gluten-free ingredients, such as gluten-free broth and sauces, shepherd’s pie can be gluten-free.
Can I make shepherd’s pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie in advance and store it in the refrigerator or freezer. Just bake it before serving.
What can I serve with shepherd’s pie?
Shepherd’s pie is delicious on its own but pairs well with a salad or bread for a complete meal.
How do I reheat shepherd’s pie?
Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or use the microwave, covering to retain moisture.
Conclusion
Shepherd’s pie is a timeless comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction to any meal. With its flavorful filling and creamy topping, it’s a dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your home. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious recipe with family and friends!
Shepherd's Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots diced
- 1 cup peas fresh or frozen
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 lbs potatoes peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil the peeled potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- In a large skillet, brown the ground meat over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and diced carrots, cooking until softened.
- Stir in peas and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
- Mix in the tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
- Simmer for 5 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with butter and milk until smooth.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with the mashed potatoes, smoothing them out, and bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown.