Dive into the heartwarming flavors of our Rustic Shepherd's Pie. This traditional dish layers savory ground meat cooked with vegetables and rich gravy, topped with a crown of fluffy mashed potatoes. Baked to golden perfection, it's a comforting classic that's perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Servings and Serving Size
- This recipe serves 6 people.
- Each serving is a generous portion of the shepherd's pie.
Nutritional Profile (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 25 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 10 g
- Cholesterol: 80 mg
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fiber: 4 g
Ingredients
- Ground lamb or beef: 900 g (2 lbs)
- Onion, chopped: 1 large
- Carrots, chopped: 2
- Peas: 150 g (1 cup)
- Garlic, minced: 2 cloves
- Tomato paste: 60 g (2 oz)
- Beef or lamb broth: 480 ml (2 cups)
- Worcestershire sauce: 2 tbsp
- Potatoes, peeled and quartered: 1.3 kg (3 lbs)
- Butter: 100 g (1/2 cup)
- Milk: 240 ml (1 cup)
- Salt and pepper: to taste
- Fresh thyme or rosemary: for garnish
Method of Preparation
- In a large skillet, cook ground meat until browned. Add onions, carrots, and garlic. Cook until vegetables are soft.
- Stir in tomato paste, broth, and Worcestershire sauce. Simmer until thickened, then add peas. Season with salt and pepper.
- Boil potatoes until tender. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F).
- Spoon the meat mixture into a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes on top.
- Bake for 20-30 minutes until the top is golden and the edges are bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh thyme or rosemary.
Tips for Culinary Success
- For a deeper flavor, add a splash of red wine to the meat mixture.
- Ensure the meat mixture is reduced and thick to prevent a soggy bottom.
- For a crispier potato topping, use a fork to create ridges before baking.
FAQs
Can I make Shepherd's Pie vegetarian?
Yes, substitute meat with lentils or a meat substitute.
Can I freeze Shepherd's Pie?
Yes, it can be frozen before or after baking.
How can I make the top of the pie more golden?
Brush the mashed potato topping with beaten egg before baking.