Ingredients

For the Filling

1 kilogram ground beef or lamb (about 2.2 pounds)
1 onion, diced
1 carrot, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
300 milliliters beef broth or water (about 1.3 cups)
1-2 sprigs of rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh herbs for garnish
We recommend:

Instructions

Step 1

Prepare the Filling

In a large skillet, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and carrot, cooking just until they start to soften, about 3-4 minutes.

Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes until browned.

Next, stir in the minced garlic and tomato paste, mixing well. Pour in the beef broth or water, add the rosemary, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer for 20-30 minutes, stirring occasionally. In the final moments, stir in the fresh herbs.

Step 2

Make the Mashed Potatoes

While the filling is simmering, peel and chop the potatoes. Place them in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add butter and warm milk, and mash until smooth and creamy.

Incorporate the egg yolk and half of the grated cheese, mixing well. Adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 3

Assemble and Bake the Pie

Preheat your oven to 180 degrees Celsius (356 degrees Fahrenheit).

In a baking dish, spread the meat filling evenly at the bottom. Top with the creamy mashed potatoes, spreading it evenly.

Sprinkle the remaining grated cheese over the top and place in the oven.

Bake for 15-20 minutes until the top is golden brown. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs of your choice.

Servings

When it comes to serving your delicious Shepherd's Pie, the options are endless! You can enjoy it as is, but here are some fun ideas to elevate your dining experience:

- **Fancy Up Your Table:** Serve with a side of freshly steamed green beans or a light salad to complement the richness of the pie. 🌱🥗

- **Add Flavorful Sides:** Try adding some garlic bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up all the delicious gravy! 🥖🧄

- **Perfect for Gatherings:** This dish is fantastic for potlucks or family gatherings. Just bake ahead of time, and reheat when it's time to eat! Everyone will enjoy this hearty meal! 💖🎉

Equipment

Potato Masher

This tool will help you create smooth, creamy mashed potatoes. A sturdy potato masher will make your work easier.

Casserole Dish

Your pie will need a good home! A medium-sized casserole dish is ideal for layering and baking your Shepherd's Pie.

Variations

Gluten-Free Option: Substitute regular flour with a gluten-free alternative or thickener for your gravy. Use cornstarch or gluten-free flour for the meat mixture to ensure a smooth texture. 🌾🚫

Vegan Variation: Replace the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative. For the mashed potatoes, use almond milk and vegan butter. Top with nutritional yeast instead of cheese for that extra umami flavor! 🌱❤️

Faq

  • What type of meat can I use for the filling?

    You can use ground beef, lamb, or even a mix of both. For a lighter option, ground turkey works great too!

  • How do I ensure my mashed potatoes are creamy?

    Make sure to use warm milk and melted butter when mashing. Also, avoid over-mashing as this can make them gummy!

  • Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    Absolutely! You can prepare the pie, cover it tightly, and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Just bake it when you're ready to serve.

  • What can I do with leftovers?

    Leftovers taste even better! Just reheat in the oven or microwave. You can also make mini shepherd's pies in muffin tins for a fun twist!

  • How long should I bake the Shepherd's Pie?

    Typically, it should bake for about 15-20 minutes at 180°C (350°F). Look for a golden-brown topping!

  • Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie?

    Yes! Just ensure it cools completely, then freeze it tightly wrapped. It can be stored for up to 3 months! To reheat, bake from frozen for longer.

Nutrition facts

Classic Shepherd's Pie with Creamy Mashed Potatoes
Recipe Yield:4 servings
Calories:Approximately 450-600 calories per serving, depending on added fats and cheese.
Calories (Min - Max):450 - 600
Total Fat:25g
Saturated Fat:10g
Protein:25g
Total Carbohydrate:50g
Total Sugars:5g