Ingredients
For the Filling
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or lamb for a traditional flavor)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon all-purpose flour
- 1 ½ cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Mashed Potato Topping
- 3 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
- 4 tablespoons butter
- ½ cup milk
- ½ cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Make the Mashed Potatoes
- Place potatoes in a large pot, cover with cold water, and add a generous pinch of salt.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until potatoes are fork-tender (about 15-20 minutes).
- Drain potatoes well, return them to the pot, and mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Stir in cheese if desired.
2. Prepare the Filling
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add ground beef (or lamb) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess fat.
- Add onion and cook until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
- Add the frozen vegetables, Worcestershire sauce, and tomato paste, stirring to combine.
- Sprinkle in flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
- Gradually pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.
- Season with thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and cook until the sauce has thickened, about 5 minutes.
3. Preheat Oven
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
4. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat filling in the skillet.
- Use a fork to create a textured pattern on top of the potatoes for extra browning.
5. Bake
- Place the skillet on a baking sheet to catch any drips.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
6. Let Rest and Serve
- Allow the shepherd’s pie to rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. This helps it set and thicken for easier scooping.
Tips
Customize it: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or sprinkle with paprika for a touch of smokiness.
Make it vegetarian: Substitute the ground meat with lentils or a plant-based meat substitute.
For extra richness: Add a splash of heavy cream to the mashed potatoes.
