Classic Shepherd’s Pie

Savor the comforting, hearty flavors of this Classic Shepherd’s Pie—a beloved traditional dish made with savory ground lamb, sautéed vegetables, and topped with a layer of creamy, golden mashed potatoes. It’s the ultimate cold-weather meal and a timeless favorite that brings warmth and satisfaction to any table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Traditional and Authentic: Made with ground lamb for that classic British taste.

• Hearty and Filling: Perfect as a main course that satisfies every appetite.

• Balanced Flavors: The rich meat base and creamy mashed potatoes are a perfect pairing.

• Family Favorite: Loved by adults and kids alike—ideal for weeknight dinners.

• Freezer-Friendly: Great for make-ahead meals or batch cooking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the mashed potato topping:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1/4 cup half-and-half

• 4 tbsp unsalted butter

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the meat filling:

• 2 tbsp canola oil

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1½ lbs ground lamb

• 1 tsp salt

• 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

• 2 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1/2 cup beef broth

• 1 cup frozen peas

Directions

1. Make the mashed potatoes:
   Place potatoes in a pot of salted water and bring to a boil. Simmer until tender, about 15 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Mash with half-and-half, butter, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

2. Prepare the meat filling:
   In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Add onion and carrots; cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
   Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
   Add ground lamb, breaking it up as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Cook until browned, about 6–8 minutes.

3. Add flavor and finish the filling:
   Stir in tomato paste and Worcestershire sauce. Cook for 2 minutes.
   Pour in beef broth and simmer until slightly reduced, about 5 minutes.
   Stir in peas and cook for another 2 minutes. Remove from heat.

4. Assemble the pie:
   Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
   Spread the meat filling in an even layer in a baking dish. Spoon mashed potatoes on top and smooth out evenly.
   Use a fork to create a decorative pattern on the surface.

5. Bake and serve:
   Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden and the edges are bubbling.
   For a crispier top, broil for 2–3 minutes at the end.
   Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 6 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour

Variations

• Cottage Pie: Substitute ground beef for lamb to make the classic cottage pie variation.

• Cheesy Topping: Mix shredded cheddar or Parmesan into the mashed potatoes.

• Vegetarian Version: Use lentils or mushrooms instead of meat and vegetable broth.

• Root Vegetable Mash: Combine potatoes with parsnips or sweet potatoes for a unique twist.

• Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients, especially broth and Worcestershire, are gluten-free.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, cover and warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 20 minutes or microwave in individual portions until heated through.
Shepherd’s Pie also freezes well. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this with ground beef?

Yes, using ground beef creates a version known as Cottage Pie.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely. Assemble it a day in advance, refrigerate, and bake just before serving.

How do I keep the mashed potatoes from sinking into the meat?

Let the meat filling cool slightly before adding the mashed potatoes, and spread them gently.

Can I freeze the entire pie?

Yes, once assembled and cooled, wrap tightly and freeze. Bake from frozen at 375°F for about 60 minutes.

What’s the best potato for mashing?

Russet potatoes provide a fluffy, smooth texture perfect for topping this pie.

How do I get a golden crust on top?

Use a fork to texture the top, and broil for the last few minutes of baking.

Can I use fresh herbs?

Yes, fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley can enhance the flavor of the filling.

Is this dish gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free if you use certified gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and broth.

Can I add cheese to the mashed potatoes?

Yes, cheese adds richness and flavor—try cheddar or Gruyère.

What vegetables can I add?

Add corn, green beans, or celery for extra nutrition and texture.

Conclusion

Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a timeless comfort food dish that combines flavorful lamb, aromatic vegetables, and smooth mashed potatoes into a warm, satisfying meal. Easy to make, freezer-friendly, and endlessly customizable, it’s a perfect staple for family dinners and cozy nights in. Whether you’re serving a crowd or saving portions for later, this dish is sure to deliver on both flavor and nostalgia.

Classic Shepherd’s Pie

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star No reviews

• Author: Olivia
• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6
• Category: Dinner, Main Dish
• Method: Baking, Stovetop
• Diet: Vegetarian

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

---

Description

This Classic Shepherd’s Pie is a hearty and traditional comfort dish made with savory ground lamb and vegetables, topped with creamy mashed potatoes. A timeless favorite that’s perfect for chilly nights and satisfying dinners.

---

Ingredients

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs russet potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

• 1/4 cup half-and-half

• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

For the Meat Filling:

• 2 tablespoons canola oil

• 1 cup chopped onion

• 2 carrots, peeled and diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 1/2 lbs ground lamb

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

• 2 tablespoons tomato paste

• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 tsp dried)

• 1/2 cup beef broth

• 1/2 cup frozen peas

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

• Make the Mashed Potatoes:
  Boil the potatoes in salted water until fork-tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and return to the pot. Mash with butter, half-and-half, salt, and pepper until smooth. Set aside.

• Prepare the Meat Filling:
  In a large skillet, heat canola oil over medium heat. Sauté onions and carrots until softened, about 5–7 minutes. Add garlic and cook another 30 seconds.

• Brown the Lamb:
  Add the ground lamb to the skillet and cook until no longer pink, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.

• Add Flavor:
  Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes. Add beef broth and let it simmer until slightly thickened, about 5 minutes. Stir in peas and remove from heat.

• Assemble:
  Spread the meat mixture in an even layer in a baking dish. Top with mashed potatoes, smoothing to the edges. Use a fork to create texture on the surface if desired.

• Bake:
  Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden. Broil for 2–3 minutes for extra browning, if desired.

• Serve:
  Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm!

---

Notes

• For a richer mashed topping, use cream or add cheese.

• Substitute ground beef for lamb to make a cottage pie version.

• Can be assembled ahead and baked when ready to serve.