Classic Shepherd’s Pie

 

Ingredients:

Meat Filling

• 2 tablespoons oil
• 1 cup chopped yellow onion
• 2 lb ground beef or lamb (lamb is traditional)
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 3 teaspoons dried parsley
• 1 teaspoon dried sage
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 1/2 teaspoons salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 3 tablespoons flour
• 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon tomato ketchup
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 1/2 cups beef broth or bouillon
• 1 can (8.75 oz) corn, drained
• 1 can (14.5 oz) carrots, drained

Potato Topping

• 4 large russet potatoes
• 1 stick salted butter
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup half and half

Instructions:

Prepare the Potatoes

1. Peel the potatoes and cut them into smaller chunks.
2. Place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water.
3. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Cook for about 15–18 minutes until the potatoes are tender and easily pierced with a knife.
5. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
6. Mash the potatoes and add butter, garlic, salt, black pepper, and half and half.
7. Continue mashing until smooth and creamy.

Prepare the Meat Filling

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Heat the oil in a large pan over medium heat.
3. Add the chopped onions and cook until softened.
4. Add the ground meat and cook until browned.
5. Sprinkle the flour over the meat and stir continuously for 1–2 minutes.
6. Pour in the beef broth and stir well. The mixture will begin to thicken.
7. Add Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, ketchup, tomato paste, parsley, sage, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
8. Stir in the corn and carrots and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Assemble the Dish

1. Pour the meat mixture into a 9×13-inch casserole dish.
2. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the top.

Bake

Place the casserole in the oven and bake for 30–40 minutes until heated through and lightly golden on top.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: About 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6–8

Serving Suggestion

Serve Shepherd’s Pie hot with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables for a complete and comforting meal.