Indulge in the hearty goodness of shepherd’s pie, a classic dish that warms both the heart and stomach. This comforting recipe layers seasoned ground meat and vegetables beneath a fluffy mashed potato topping, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. Ideal for chilly evenings, shepherd’s pie not only satisfies hunger but also brings family together. Let’s dive into this delicious recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your household!
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground lamb or beef
– 1 cup peas and carrots (frozen or fresh)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. Preparation time is about 20 minutes, while the cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/6 of the pie): approximately 350 calories, 20g protein, 30g carbohydrates, 18g fat. This nutritional information is based on a serving size of one piece of shepherd’s pie.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
3. Drain the potatoes and mash them with milk and butter until smooth.
4. In a skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until soft.
5. Add the ground meat, cooking until browned.
6. Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, peas, and carrots; season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
8. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish.
9. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version of shepherd’s pie. Additionally, use sweet potatoes instead of regular potatoes for a unique twist.
Serving and Pairings
Shepherd’s pie pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad or steamed green beans. A glass of red wine also complements its rich flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Shepherd’s pie can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Overcooking the potatoes can lead to a watery mash.
– Not seasoning the meat properly will result in bland flavors.
– Skipping the simmering step can make the filling too runny.
– Using cold milk in mashed potatoes can affect the texture.
– Forgetting to cover the dish can lead to a dry topping.
Helpful Tips
– Use leftover roast meat for a quicker recipe.
– Add Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
– Experiment with different vegetables based on your preference.
– Ensure the meat mixture is well-seasoned before layering with potatoes.
FAQs
Can I make shepherd’s pie in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes a day ahead and assemble them just before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Is shepherd’s pie gluten-free?
Yes, shepherd’s pie can be gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free ingredients, especially in the broth and any sauces.
Can I use vegetables other than peas and carrots?
Definitely! Feel free to add corn, green beans, or even mushrooms to customize the filling to your liking.
What can I serve with shepherd’s pie?
Shepherd’s pie is delicious on its own, but it pairs well with a simple salad or some crusty bread for a complete meal.
How do I know when the shepherd’s pie is done?
The pie is done when the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling around the edges. You can also check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
Conclusion
Shepherd’s pie is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a dish. With its rich filling and creamy topping, this recipe is bound to warm your heart and satisfy your cravings. Try it out and make it a new family favorite!
Shepherd's Pie Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef
- 1 cup peas and carrots
- 1 onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 lbs potatoes peeled and cubed
- 1/2 cup milk
- 1/4 cup butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
- Drain the potatoes and mash them with milk and butter until smooth.
- In a skillet, cook the diced onion and minced garlic until soft.
- Add the ground meat, cooking until browned.
- Stir in tomato paste, beef broth, peas, and carrots; season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer for about 10 minutes until the mixture thickens slightly.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish.
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown.