Description
A rich and savory shepherd’s pie layered with deeply flavorful meat and vegetables, topped with golden mashed potatoes. This classic version is structured, comforting, and perfect for make-ahead meals or cozy dinners.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds ground lamb or beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
¾ cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
½ cup red wine (optional)
1 cup beef stock or broth
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 pounds russet or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled and chopped
½ cup whole milk
4 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons sour cream or cream cheese
1 egg yolk
Pinch of white pepper
Fresh thyme or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
1. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat olive oil and brown the ground meat until deep golden. Remove excess fat if needed.
2. Add diced onion, garlic, and carrots. Cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes, then sprinkle in flour and stir to coat.
4. Deglaze the pan with red wine (if using), scraping up any brown bits.
5. Add Worcestershire sauce and beef stock. Simmer the filling for 10–15 minutes until thickened.
6. Stir in peas, season with salt and pepper, and remove from heat.
7. Meanwhile, boil potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15 minutes.
8. Drain and mash with butter, milk, sour cream, and white pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
9. Stir in egg yolk while potatoes are still warm for a golden finish.
10. Spread meat filling in a baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes on top and spread evenly.
11. Use a spoon or fork to create ridges for browning. Brush with melted butter if desired.
12. Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes until top is golden and filling bubbles at the edges.
13. Let rest 10–15 minutes before serving. Garnish with thyme or parsley.
Notes
Use lamb for traditional depth of flavor or beef for a milder, more familiar taste.
Spread warm mash over warm filling to prevent mixing and ensure smooth layers.
Assemble ahead and refrigerate up to 2 days before baking for easy prep.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baked
- Cuisine: British
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 465
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 28g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Shepherd's Pie, Classic Casserole, Comfort Food