This hearty Shepherd’s Pie recipe is the ultimate comfort food for a cozy night in.
About a decade ago, I took a trip to Ireland. While I was there, I learned that hearty dishes are the go-to. One of the dishes that I fell in love with was shepherd’s pie. It has everything you need to fill your stomach and soul—ground meat, mashed potatoes, vegetables, and broth, all layered and baked to perfection. How could you go wrong?
When I found this recipe for shepherd’s pie, it was the closest in flavor to what I had enjoyed in Ireland. I’m sure you will love it, too. The pie’s flavor can only be described as savory. At its base are beef broth, tomato paste, and Worcestershire sauce, all of which bring out the richness of the meat. There’s nothing flashy about this either, but that’s what I love about it. Besides, flash is overrated.
So when the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, try this recipe. I think you’ll quickly realize why traditional dishes like shepherd’s pie stand the test of time!
Is This Shepherd’s Pie Healthy?
To determine whether shepherd’s pie is healthy, remember that everything should be enjoyed in moderation. This recipe calls for 90% lean ground beef, reducing the fat count. You can always decrease the fat content further by substituting ground turkey or chicken. If you’re dairy-free, trade the milk in the mashed potatoes for plant-based alternatives like olive oil and unsweetened oat milk.
This recipe is relatively high in sodium. If that’s an area of concern, omit the salt and use low-sodium beef broth.
Ground Lamb Vs. Ground Beef
Traditionally, shepherd’s pie calls for ground lamb, which makes sense. This recipe originates in the UK and Ireland, where sheep farming was more common. It’s in the name, too—shepherd’s pie. If you can find ground lamb, I certainly recommend it. The lamb adds a rich, gamey flavor that beef just can’t emulate. However, picky eaters may prefer the milder taste of ground beef.
Can I Prep This Ahead?
Shepherd’s pie is a great dish to make in advance because the longer it has to sit and soak in flavor, the more flavorful each bite will be. After cooking, to store your shepherd’s pie, let it cool to room temperature, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days—same storage time for leftovers. You can also freeze your shepherd’s pie for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy your shepherd’s pie, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 375°F for 30 minutes.
Serving Suggestions
Shepherd’s pie is generally eaten as a complete meal, but that doesn’t mean it can’t be served with other dishes.
I personally like serving shepherd’s pie with a salad. This savory Kale Salad With Bacon And Caramelized Onions pairs nicely. For an even lighter option, try this Spring Salad. If salad isn’t your thing, Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Mushrooms is also a delicious side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds russet potatoes peeled and cubed
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion diced
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1.5 pounds ground beef or ground lamb for a more traditional taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 cup beef broth
- 2 cups mixed vegetables peas, carrots, corn
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 400°F. Boil potatoes until tender, about 15 minutes, then drain.
- Mash potatoes with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet and cook onions and garlic until soft. Add ground beef or lamb, cooking until browned.
- Stir in flour, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Bring to a simmer.
- Add mixed vegetables to the skillet, cook for 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
- Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish. Spread mashed potatoes on top.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, until the potatoes are golden. Let cool before serving.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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