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Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food—a hearty, satisfying dish made with layers of savory meat and vegetables, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked to golden perfection.
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Ingredients
  

  • For the Meat Filling
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 medium onion finely diced
  • 2 garlic cloves minced
  • 1 pound ground lamb or beef
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup frozen corn
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • For the Mashed Potato Topping
  • 2 pounds potatoes peeled and cubed
  • 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup whole milk or heavy cream for extra richness
  • Salt to taste
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese optional, for topping

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
  • Place the cubed potatoes in a medium saucepan and cover with water. Add a pinch of salt.
  • Bring to a boil, reduce heat, and simmer until the potatoes are fork-tender (about 15 minutes).
  • Drain and mash the potatoes with butter and milk until smooth. Add salt to taste. Set aside.
  • Cook the Meat Filling
  • Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
  • Add the ground meat, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned. Drain excess fat if needed.
  • Stir in the diced carrots, peas, and corn, cooking for 3–4 minutes.
  • Add tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and broth. Stir well and let simmer until the liquid reduces slightly, creating a thick, flavorful filling. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
  • Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
  • Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat layer, smoothing them with a spatula. For extra flair, create swirls or peaks in the potatoes using the back of a spoon.
  • (Optional) Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes for a cheesy crust.
  • Bake to Perfection
  • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the mashed potato topping is golden and slightly crispy.
  • Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.