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Best Classic Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

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4.3 from 65 reviews

Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty, comforting dish featuring a savory ground beef filling enriched with herbs, vegetables, and a rich gravy, all topped with creamy mashed potatoes sprinkled with Parmesan cheese. This timeless recipe combines robust flavors and a satisfying texture, perfect for a cozy family meal.

Ingredients

Meat Filling:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 cup chopped yellow onion
  • 1 lb. 90% lean ground beef or ground lamb
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried rosemary leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup frozen mixed peas & carrots
  • 1/2 cup frozen corn kernels

Potato Topping:

  • 1 ½ - 2 lb. russet potatoes (about 2 large potatoes), peeled and cut into 1 inch cubes
  • 8 tablespoons unsalted butter (1 stick)
  • 1/3 cup half & half
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Potatoes: Peel and cut russet potatoes into 1-inch cubes. Place them in a large pot, cover with cold water, and bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes. Drain well.
  2. Mash the Potatoes: Return the drained potatoes to the pot. Add butter, half & half, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mash until smooth and creamy. Set aside.
  3. Cook the Meat Filling: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  4. Season the Meat: Stir in dried parsley, rosemary, thyme, salt, pepper, Worcestershire sauce, and minced garlic. Cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  5. Make the Gravy: Sprinkle flour over the meat mixture and stir well, cooking for 1 minute to remove raw flour taste. Add tomato paste and stir to combine.
  6. Add Liquids and Vegetables: Pour in beef broth and stir to create a rich gravy. Add frozen peas & carrots and corn. Simmer for 5-7 minutes until vegetables are heated through and the mixture thickens slightly.
  7. Assemble the Pie: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Spread the meat filling evenly in a baking dish. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top, spreading evenly to cover the filling completely. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over the potato topping.
  8. Bake: Bake the shepherd’s pie in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
  9. Serve: Allow to cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your warm and hearty classic shepherd’s pie!

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, substitute ground lamb instead of beef.
  • Make sure not to overcook the potatoes to keep them creamy and smooth.
  • You can add extra vegetables like diced mushrooms or celery if desired.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
  • Feel free to adjust seasoning to taste, especially with salt and herbs.

Find it online: https://recipethrive.com/best-classic-shepherds-pie-recipe/