Shepherd’s Pie is a beloved classic that brings together a hearty meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes, baked to golden perfection
This comforting dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying make-ahead meal. With tender ground beef, vegetables, and a rich, savory gravy, this recipe will soon become a staple in your home.
Homemade Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
This homemade Shepherd’s Pie recipe combines savory beef, hearty vegetables, and a golden mashed potato topping for a comforting, delicious dinner. Perfect for cozy family meals!
Ingredients
- For the Meat & Vegetables:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 clove garlic, chopped
- 2 onions, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, finely diced
- 2 sticks celery, finely diced
- For the Gravy/Filling:
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground paprika
- Ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- ⅓ cup red wine (or substitute with beef broth)
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon parsley, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon thyme, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon rosemary, finely chopped
- For the Topping:
- 4 cups mashed potatoes (use your favorite recipe)
- ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
1. Brown the Meat and Vegetables
- Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula.
- Add the chopped garlic, onions, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Season and Deglaze the Pan
- Sprinkle the salt, paprika, black pepper, and flour over the meat and vegetables. Stir to combine and cook for 2 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste and cook for an additional minute until it becomes fragrant and slightly caramelized.
- Pour in the red wine (or beef broth) and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
3. Make the Gravy and Finish the Filling
- Stir in the beef broth, thyme, rosemary, parsley, and peas. Let the mixture simmer for 4-5 minutes until it thickens.
- Transfer the filling to a 7×11-inch baking dish and let it cool slightly while you prepare the mashed potatoes.
4. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
- If you don’t have leftover mashed potatoes, make your favorite recipe with about 1.5 pounds of peeled potatoes, boiled until tender, and mashed with butter and cream for a smooth texture.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
- Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the cooled meat filling. Use a fork to create criss-cross patterns on the surface of the potatoes for a decorative and crispy top.
- Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the mashed potatoes.
6. Bake the Pie
- Place the baking dish on a lined baking sheet to catch any spills.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling at the edges.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and mashed potatoes in advance. Simply assemble the pie, cover, and refrigerate for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, remove from the fridge and bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes, or until heated through.
Can I use lamb instead of beef?
Absolutely! Traditional Shepherd’s Pie is made with lamb. You can substitute the ground beef with ground lamb for an authentic version of this classic dish.
Can I freeze Shepherd’s Pie?
Yes, Shepherd’s Pie freezes well. Assemble the pie and allow it to cool completely. Cover tightly with plastic wrap and foil before freezing for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, bake from frozen at 375°F for 45-50 minutes.