Description
This comforting homemade Shepherd’s Pie features a rich ground beef and vegetable filling topped with creamy mashed potatoes. Layered and baked until golden and bubbling, it’s a hearty dish perfect for warming the soul and satisfying the whole family.
Ingredients
Scale
For the filling:
- 500g ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 cup frozen peas
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 cup beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small potato, thinly sliced (optional layer inside)
For the mashed potato topping:
- 800g potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 cup milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme or parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the filling: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion, minced garlic, and chopped carrot, cooking until softened. Add ground beef and cook until browned, then drain excess fat. Stir in tomato paste and flour thoroughly. Pour in beef broth, then add frozen peas, dried thyme, dried rosemary, salt, and pepper. Allow to simmer for 8–10 minutes until the mixture thickens. Optionally, layer thin potato slices over the meat filling for added texture.
- Prepare the mashed potatoes: Boil peeled and chopped potatoes in salted water until fork-tender. Drain well, then mash with butter and warm milk until creamy and smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble and bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F). Spread the cooked meat filling evenly in a baking dish. Top with the mashed potatoes, spreading evenly and using a fork to create texture on the surface. Bake in the preheated oven for 25–30 minutes or until the topping is golden brown and bubbling. Garnish with fresh thyme or parsley before serving.
Notes
- For a richer flavor, use bone broth instead of regular beef broth.
- The thin potato slices layered inside the filling are optional but add extra texture and heartiness.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground lamb for a traditional shepherd’s pie.
- Adjust herbs and seasoning according to preference; fresh herbs can be used instead of dried.
- Ensure mashed potatoes are smooth and creamy to prevent dryness after baking.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British
Keywords: Shepherd's Pie, homemade, ground beef, mashed potatoes, comfort food, baked casserole, British cuisine
