Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie (Classic Recipe)

A hearty, comforting dish made with savory minced lamb, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes baked until golden. Traditionally made with lamb (if made with beef, it’s technically called Cottage Pie).

🛒 Ingredients (Serves 6)

🥩 Meat Filling

• 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 small onion, finely diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 medium carrots, finely diced

• 1 cup frozen peas

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 cup beef or lamb broth

• 1 tsp fresh thyme (or ½ tsp dried)

• 1 tsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped (optional)

• Salt & black pepper to taste

🥔 Mashed Potato Topping

• 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled & chopped

• 4 tbsp butter

• ½ cup warm milk (or cream)

• Salt to taste

• ½ cup shredded cheddar (optional, for golden crust)

• 1 egg yolk (optional, for richer mash)

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Make the Mashed Potatoes

1. Boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender (15–20 minutes).

2. Drain well and let steam dry for 2 minutes.

3. Mash with butter, warm milk, and salt.

4. Stir in egg yolk if using.

5. Set aside.

Tip: Drier potatoes = fluffier topping.

2️⃣ Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

2. Add onion and carrots; cook 4–5 minutes until softened.

3. Add garlic; cook 30 seconds.

4. Add ground lamb and cook until browned, breaking it apart.

5. Stir in tomato paste and cook 1 minute.

6. Add Worcestershire sauce, broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

7. Simmer 8–10 minutes until slightly thickened.

8. Stir in peas at the end.

The mixture should be thick, not soupy.

3️⃣ Assemble

1. Preheat oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Spread meat mixture evenly into a baking dish.

3. Spoon mashed potatoes over top.

4. Smooth and create ridges with a fork (helps browning).

5. Sprinkle cheese on top if using.

4️⃣ Bake

• Bake 20–25 minutes until golden.

• Broil 2–3 minutes for extra browning if desired.

• Rest 10 minutes before serving.