Classic Shepherd’s Pie 🥔🍖
A comforting, hearty dish with savory ground lamb (or beef), tender veggies, and a creamy mashed potato topping—baked until golden and bubbly!
Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the Filling:
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 lb (450g) ground lamb (or beef for “Cottage Pie”)
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1 onion, diced
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2 carrots, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 tsp rosemary, chopped
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1 tsp thyme
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2 tbsp tomato paste
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1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
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1 cup beef or lamb stock
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1 cup frozen peas
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Salt & pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potatoes:
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2 lbs (900g) russet potatoes, peeled & cubed
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½ cup (120ml) warm milk
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4 tbsp (60g) butter
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½ tsp salt
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¼ tsp black pepper
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1 egg yolk (optional, for richness)
For Topping:
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½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
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Paprika or chopped parsley
Instructions
1. Cook the Filling
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Heat oil in a skillet. Brown lamb over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
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Add onion, carrots, garlic, rosemary, and thyme. Cook for 5 mins until softened.
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Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and stock. Simmer for 10 mins until thickened.
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Add peas, then season with salt & pepper. Transfer to a 9×13″ baking dish.
2. Make the Mashed Potatoes
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Boil potatoes until tender (~15 mins). Drain and mash with milk, butter, salt, pepper, and egg yolk (if using).
3. Assemble & Bake
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Spread mashed potatoes over the filling. Fluff with a fork for texture.
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Sprinkle with cheese (if using) and paprika.
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Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 mins until golden.
4. Serve
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Let cool 5 mins, then garnish with parsley.
Tips for Success
✔ Lamb vs. beef: Traditional Shepherd’s Pie uses lamb; beef makes it “Cottage Pie.”
✔ Extra flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the filling.
✔ Make ahead: Assemble, refrigerate, and bake later (add 10 mins to baking time).
Why You’ll Love This
✅ Ultimate comfort food—warm, savory, and satisfying.
✅ Great for leftovers (tastes even better the next day!).
✅ Customizable—add corn, mushrooms, or swap sweet potatoes.
Pair with: A crisp green salad or crusty bread.
Want a lighter version? Use lean turkey and Greek yogurt in the mash. 😊
Need a gluten-free option? Swap Worcestershire for tamari.