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best shepherds pie
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best shepherds pie

Best Shepherd’s Pie is a cozy, satisfying dish that layers savory ground meat and vegetables beneath a blanket of creamy mashed potatoes. This traditional comfort food has stood the test of time for a reason—it’s hearty, wholesome, and makes the perfect family dinner. With rich, meaty flavor and golden mashed potatoes baked on top, this is a complete one-pan meal that’s as delicious as it is nostalgic.
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Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6
Course: dinner
Calories: 420
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Meat Filling:
  • 1 lb ground lamb or beef
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • ½ cup frozen peas
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • ½ cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp fresh thyme or ½ tsp dried
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 tbsp flour optional, for thickening
  • For the Mashed Potato Topping:
  • 2 lbs russet potatoes peeled and chopped
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • ⅓ cup milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping

Method
 

  1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the onions and carrots until softened, about 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook 1 minute more.
  3. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle in flour (if using) and stir for 1–2 minutes. Pour in broth and simmer until thickened, about 5 minutes. Add peas and stir through.
  4. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and spread into an even layer. Use a fork to create texture for browning. Sprinkle with cheese, if using.
  5. Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
  6. Let cool slightly before serving. Scoop into generous portions and enjoy.

Notes

  • Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat: Microwave or warm in the oven at 350°F until heated through.
  • Freezing: Freeze before baking for up to 2 months. Thaw and bake when ready to serve.