A Classic Comfort: Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

GermanInsightsByInsights Team Published Updated
Shepherd's Pie Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, savory shepherd’s pie to bring comfort on a chilly evening. This classic dish, with its rich, meaty filling and a golden, fluffy mashed potato topping, is a true crowd-pleaser. While the traditional recipe calls for lamb, you can easily use ground beef for a delicious “cottage pie.” This recipe guides you through creating a perfect, hearty pie that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients

For the Filling

  • 1.5 lb ground lamb or beef
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 carrots, finely diced
  • 1-2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1.5 cups beef or lamb stock
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1/2 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping

  • 1.5-2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled and chopped
  • 4 tbsp unsalted butter
  • 1/3 cup milk or cream
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

Place the chopped potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold, salted water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until they are fork-tender. Drain the potatoes well and return them to the hot, empty pot to steam for a minute. Add the butter, milk/cream, salt, and pepper. Mash until the potatoes are smooth and creamy, then stir in the Parmesan cheese if you’re using it. Set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Filling

In a large, ovenproof skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and carrots and cook for 5-7 minutes until they soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Increase the heat, add the ground lamb, and cook for 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon until it’s browned. Drain any excess fat.

Step 3: Build the Gravy

Add the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, and rosemary to the meat mixture. Stir well and cook for a minute or two. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir to combine, cooking for another minute to remove the raw flour taste. Pour in the beef stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat and let it thicken into a rich gravy over 5-10 minutes. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble and Bake

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Pour the filling into a 9×13 inch baking dish if you aren’t using an ovenproof skillet. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling. Use a fork to create decorative ridges on the surface of the potatoes; this will help them crisp and brown beautifully.

Step 5: Finish and Serve

Place the dish on a baking sheet to catch any drips and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbling at the edges. Let the pie stand for at least 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows the filling to set, making it easier to serve.

Enjoy your delicious, homemade shepherd’s pie!

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