Shepherd's Pie Recipe

Ingredients

For the Filling:

• Ground Lamb: 1 pound (450 g)
• Onion: 1 medium onion, chopped (about 1 cup or 150 g)
• Carrots: 2 medium carrots, diced (about 1 cup or 150 g)
• Garlic: 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Frozen Peas: 1 cup (150 g)
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons (30 g)
• Worcestershire Sauce: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
• Beef or Lamb Stock: 1 cup (240 ml)
• Fresh Rosemary: 1 teaspoon (5 g), chopped (or 1/2 teaspoon dried)
• Salt: 1 teaspoon (5 g), or to taste
• Black Pepper: 1/2 teaspoon (2 g), or to taste
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• Potatoes: 2 pounds (900 g) Russet or Yukon Gold potatoes
• Butter: 1/2 cup (115 g), softened
• Milk: 1/2 cup (120 ml) whole milk (adjust for creaminess)
• Salt: 1/2 teaspoon (2 g)
• Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1 g)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Potatoes:

• Peel and cut the potatoes into even chunks (about 1.5 inches or 4 cm).
• Rinse under cold water to remove excess starch.

2. Boil the Potatoes:

• Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover them with cold water.
• Add 1 tablespoon (15 g) of salt.
• Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.

3. Make the Filling:

• While the potatoes are boiling, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and carrots; cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
• Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
• Add the ground lamb, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 8-10 minutes.
• Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and stock. Add the chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper.
• Bring to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, until the mixture thickens slightly.
• Stir in the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
• Remove from heat.

4. Mash the Potatoes:

• Once the potatoes are fork-tender, drain them and return them to the pot.
• Add the softened butter, milk, salt, and pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy.

5. Assemble the Shepherd's Pie:

• Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
• Spread the meat filling evenly in a baking dish.
• Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading them out evenly. You can create a pattern with a fork for texture.
• Optionally, sprinkle some extra butter or grated cheese on top for added flavor.

6. Bake:

• Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.

7. Serve:

• Let the Shepherd's Pie cool for a few minutes before serving.
• Enjoy your hearty dish!

Tips

• You can make the filling ahead of time and assemble it later.
• Substitute the lamb with ground beef for a Cottage Pie variation.
• Add other vegetables like corn or green beans for more flavor and nutrition.

Enjoy your Shepherd's Pie!