The Best Homemade Easy Shepherd’s Pie Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This shepherd’s pie is comfort food at its best, with hearty flavors and simple steps that anyone can master. You’ll love how it brings everyone together around the table, filling your home with warmth and delicious aromas. * It’s packed with savory ground meat, tender veggies, and creamy mashed potatoes. * The recipe is super flexible, letting you swap ingredients to suit your taste or pantry. * Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers, tasting even better the next day!
Recipe
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic comfort dish featuring a savory meat filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. This hearty meal is perfect for family dinners and gatherings, offering a delicious blend of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground lamb (or beef for Cottage Pie)
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 4 tbsp butter
- 1/2 cup milk
Instructions:
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Boil potatoes until tender, then mash with butter and milk. Season with salt and pepper.
- In a skillet, brown the ground lamb over medium heat. Drain excess fat.
- Add onion, carrots, and garlic. Cook until softened.
- Stir in tomato paste, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, peas, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes evenly on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the top is golden.
Notes:
- For a crispier topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes.
- Substitute ground beef for a Cottage Pie variation.
Equipment:
- Skillet
- Baking dish
- Potato masher
Time:
- Prep time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 45 minutes
Cuisine: British
Serving: 6
Nutrition
Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty dish packed with nutrients. Here’s the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 kcal |
| Protein | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Fiber | 5 g |
| Sodium | 500 mg |
What To Serve With It
I love serving my shepherd’s pie with a crisp side salad—it adds a fresh crunch that balances the rich, creamy filling. A warm loaf of crusty bread is another must-have, perfect for soaking up every last bit of gravy. These simple sides make the meal feel complete without stealing the spotlight from the main dish.
Classic Side Salads
Since shepherd’s pie is hearty and rich, a crisp, fresh salad balances the meal perfectly. I love pairing it with a simple garden salad—just lettuce, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette. A tangy coleslaw adds crunch, while a Caesar salad brings bold flavor. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll whip up a spinach salad with strawberries and almonds. The key is keeping it bright and invigorating to cut through the pie’s richness. Don’t overcomplicate it—sometimes, just a handful of greens with lemon dressing does the trick. Trust me, it’s the perfect side.
Crusty Bread Options
While a fresh salad lightens up the meal, nothing beats tearing into a warm, crusty loaf alongside shepherd’s pie. I love serving a baguette or sourdough bread—their golden crusts and soft centers are perfect for soaking up every last bit of that rich filling. Garlic bread is another winner, adding bold flavor that pairs beautifully with the savory pie. Sometimes, I’ll even make a quick skillet focaccia if I’m feeling fancy. Trust me, there’s something so comforting about having a slice of bread right there to complete the meal. It’s simple, hearty, and always hits the spot.
