This classic Shepherd’s Pie is the ultimate comfort food, featuring savory ground meat, rich gravy, and a creamy mashed potato topping. It’s baked to golden perfection and will surely become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

For the Meat Filling:

  • 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for cottage pie)
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large carrot, diced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)

For the Mashed Potatoes:

  • 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
  • 1/4 cup butter
  • 1/2 cup milk (or cream for extra creaminess)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Make the Mashed Potatoes: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the peeled and cubed potatoes. Cook for about 12-15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a fork. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  2. Prepare the Meat Filling: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until softened. Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet and cook, breaking it up into small pieces, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the diced carrot, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, and broth. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  3. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat mixture evenly in the bottom of a greased 9×9-inch baking dish or similar-sized casserole dish. Carefully spread the mashed potatoes on top of the meat filling, using a spatula to smooth it out. For a decorative touch, you can use a fork to create a pattern on top of the mashed potatoes.
  4. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. If you want the top to be extra crispy, you can broil it for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching closely to avoid burning.
  5. Serve: Let the Shepherd’s Pie rest for a few minutes before serving. Scoop out portions and enjoy!