Shepherd’s Pie (Classic Recipe)
Shepherd’s Pie is a traditional comfort dish made with savory ground lamb and vegetables topped with creamy mashed potatoes, then baked until golden. (If you use beef instead of lamb, it’s usually called Cottage Pie.)
Ingredients
Meat Filling
- 1 lb (450 g) ground lamb
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- 1 cup peas (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef or lamb broth
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp flour (optional, for thickening)
Mashed Potato Topping
- 2 lbs (900 g) potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- ½ cup milk or cream
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Boil potatoes in salted water for 15–20 minutes until tender.
- Drain and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper.
- Set aside.
2. Cook the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Cook onion and carrots for 5 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook 30 seconds.
- Add ground lamb and cook until browned.
3. Add Flavor
Stir in:
- tomato paste
- Worcestershire sauce
- thyme
- flour
Pour in the broth and simmer 5–7 minutes until thick.
Add the peas and mix well.
4. Assemble
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Spread the meat mixture into a baking dish.
- Spoon mashed potatoes over the top and spread evenly.
- Use a fork to make lines on the potatoes (helps browning).
- Sprinkle cheese if using.
5. Bake
Bake 20–25 minutes until the top is golden and slightly crispy.
Serving Ideas
Serve with:
- Green beans
- Simple salad
- Crusty bread
✅ Tip:
Let the pie rest for 10 minutes after baking so it sets and slices nicely.
If you’d like, I can also give you:
- Gordon Ramsay’s famous shepherd’s pie recipe (restaurant style)
- 30-minute easy shepherd’s pie
- Cheesy loaded shepherd’s pie that tastes incredible. 🍽️🥔