Easy Shepherd’s Pie

Why Make This Recipe

Easy Shepherd’s Pie is a comforting dish that warms the heart and fills the stomach. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal, perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. This recipe combines flavorful meat and veggies, topped with creamy mashed potatoes, making it a complete dinner in one dish. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover mashed potatoes!

How to Make Easy Shepherd’s Pie

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef or lamb
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the diced carrots and cook for a few more minutes.
4. Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, frozen peas, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 10 minutes.
6. Pour the meat mixture into a baking dish.
7. Spread the prepared mashed potatoes evenly on top of the meat layer.
8. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
9. Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

How to Serve Easy Shepherd’s Pie

Shepherd’s Pie is best served warm. You can dish it up directly from the baking dish. For a complete meal, serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread. It can also be topped with fresh herbs like parsley for added color and flavor.

How to Store Easy Shepherd’s Pie

To store leftover Shepherd’s Pie, let it cool completely. Then, cover it tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil or transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it completely before reheating.

Tips to Make Easy Shepherd’s Pie

• For extra flavor, add a splash of red wine when cooking the meat.
• You can use any leftover veggies you have in your fridge; just make sure to dice them small.
• If you like a crispy top, you can broil it for a few minutes after baking to achieve that golden brown finish.

Variation

You can turn Shepherd’s Pie into a vegetarian option by using lentils or a mix of your favorite vegetables, like mushrooms and zucchini. Just skip the meat and follow the same steps.

FAQs

1. Can I use instant mashed potatoes?
Yes, instant mashed potatoes work well if you want to save time.

2. Can I make Shepherd’s Pie ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare everything in advance and bake it when you’re ready to eat.

3. What can I serve with Shepherd’s Pie?
A simple side salad, steamed vegetables, or some crusty bread pair nicely with Shepherd’s Pie.

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