Go Back
Shepherd's Pie Dinner Recipe - Image 2

Shepherd's Pie Dinner

A classic British dish, this Shepherd's Pie features a savory meat and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 40 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Main
Cuisine: British

Ingredients
  

  • 1 lb ground lamb or ground beef for cottage pie
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 lbs potatoes peeled and quartered
  • 1/2 cup milk warmed
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 cup cheddar cheese grated, optional
  • to taste salt and pepper

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • 9x13 inch baking dish
  • Pot for boiling potatoes
  • Potato masher

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground lamb and cook until browned, about 8 minutes, breaking it apart with a spatula.
  2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and diced carrots to the skillet. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer for 10 minutes, then add the frozen peas. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. While the meat mixture simmers, boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Add the warmed milk and butter, then mash until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  4. Transfer the meat mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top. If using, sprinkle the grated cheddar cheese over the potatoes.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.

Notes

Chef's Tips:
• For a richer flavor, use homemade beef stock instead of store-bought broth
• Avoid over-mixing the mashed potatoes to prevent a gluey texture
• Serve with a side salad for a complete meal
Food Safety:
• Ensure ground lamb is cooked to an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C)
• Refrigerate leftovers within two hours of cooking