Looking for a hearty and comforting dish that warms the soul? This Shepherds Pie recipe is a classic favorite that combines flavorful ground meat with a luscious layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Perfect for family dinners or meal prepping, this dish is sure to please every palate. With its rich flavor and satisfying texture, you’ll want to make this recipe a staple in your household!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 4 cups mashed potatoes
– 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1/4 of the pie) contains approximately 450 calories, 25g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. This is based on a serving size of 1/4 pie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add diced onions and carrots; sauté until soft.
4. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
5. Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
6. Mix in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce.
7. Pour in the beef broth and simmer for 10 minutes.
8. Stir in frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.
9. Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
10. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface.
11. Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
12. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground lamb with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. Additionally, feel free to use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
Serve this Shepherds Pie with a side of fresh green salad or steamed vegetables. A glass of red wine pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the dish.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover Shepherds Pie in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Not seasoning the meat mixture adequately.
- Overcooking the mashed potatoes before topping.
- Skipping the simmering step for the meat mixture.
- Using too much liquid in the mashed potatoes.
- Not allowing the pie to cool before serving.
Helpful Tips
- Use leftover mashed potatoes for a quicker prep time.
- Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor.
- Mix in some cheese with the mashed potatoes for creaminess.
- Check for doneness by ensuring the filling is bubbling.
FAQs
Can I make Shepherds Pie ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Shepherds Pie a day in advance. Simply assemble the dish and refrigerate it, then bake when ready to serve.
Is Shepherds Pie gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, ensure that your broth and any sauces used are gluten-free. Use gluten-free flour for thickening if necessary.
Can I use different vegetables in Shepherds Pie?
Absolutely! You can add vegetables like corn, bell peppers, or mushrooms to suit your taste.
What can I serve with Shepherds Pie?
Shepherds Pie pairs well with a simple side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.
How long does Shepherds Pie last in the fridge?
Shepherds Pie can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure it is covered tightly to maintain freshness.
Conclusion
Shepherds Pie is a timeless dish that brings comfort and satisfaction to any meal. With its hearty filling and creamy topping, it’s a recipe that the whole family will love. Enjoy this classic comfort food and make it a regular feature on your dining table!
Shepherds Pie
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 onion diced
- 2 carrots diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 4 cups mashed potatoes
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add diced onions and carrots; sauté until soft.
- Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
- Mix in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce.
- Pour in the beef broth and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in frozen peas and season with salt and pepper.
- Spread the meat mixture evenly in a baking dish.
- Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing the surface.
- Bake for 25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
- Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
