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Classic Shepherd’s Pie

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A comforting Shepherd’s Pie made with ground lamb or beef, vegetables, and a creamy mashed potato topping.

Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 pound ground lamb or beef
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 pounds potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup whole milk (or heavy cream for extra richness)
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes: Place the cubed potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 15 minutes). Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Add salt to taste. Set aside.
  2. Cook the Meat Filling: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent. Add the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed. Stir in the diced carrots, peas, and corn, cooking for 3–4 minutes. Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and broth. Stir well and let simmer until the liquid reduces slightly, creating a thick, flavorful filling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie: Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat layer, smoothing them with a spatula. For extra flair, create swirls or peaks in the potatoes using the back of a spoon. (Optional) Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes for a cheesy crust.
  4. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is golden and slightly crispy. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

For extra crispiness, create peaks with a fork on top of the mashed potatoes before baking.

Find it online: https://zestuni.site/shepherds-pie-creamy-mashed-potatoes/