My Famous Homemade Shepherd’s Pie

This homemade shepherd’s pie is a classic comfort food, featuring savory ground meat, a rich vegetable gravy, and creamy mashed potatoes baked to golden perfection. Perfect for cozy family dinners, it’s hearty, delicious, and sure to be a favorite in your home!

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Ingredients

For the Meat Filling:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 2 tbsp all-purpose flour (or gluten-free flour for GF option)
• 2 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Yukon Gold or Russet), peeled and cubed
• 1/2 cup milk (or plant-based milk for dairy-free)
• 4 tbsp unsalted butter (or vegan butter)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional, for topping)

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Instructions

Prepare the Meat Filling:

1. Cook the Meat:
   • In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or lamb and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
2. Sauté Vegetables:
   • Add onion, carrots, and garlic to the skillet. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
3. Make the Gravy:
   • Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle flour over the mixture and stir well. Gradually add broth, stirring constantly, until a thick gravy forms. Simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add Peas:
   • Stir in frozen peas and cook for 2 more minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:
5. Cook the Potatoes:

• Boil potatoes in a large pot of salted water for 15-20 minutes, or until fork-tender. Drain and return to the pot.

6. Mash the Potatoes:
   • Add milk, butter, salt, and pepper to the potatoes. Mash until smooth and creamy.

Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie:
7. Layer the Dish:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat filling evenly in a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, spreading them to cover the filling completely. For extra flavor, sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the potatoes.

8. Bake:
   • Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden and the filling is bubbling. Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispier topping, if desired.
9. Serve:
   • Let the shepherd’s pie cool for 5 minutes before serving. Enjoy this hearty dish!

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Tips for the Best Shepherd’s Pie

• Meat Options: Use lamb for a traditional version or beef for a milder flavor.
• Customize Veggies: Add corn, green beans, or mushrooms for variety.
• Make Ahead: Assemble the pie in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving.

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Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx. 8 Servings)

• Calories: 360
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Cholesterol: 55mg
• Sodium: 450mg
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 18g