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Classic Shepherd’s Pie

A fork lifts a generous bite of Shepherd's Pie, revealing tender beef and creamy mashed potato topping.

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A traditional comfort food bake featuring savory ground lamb and vegetables in a rich gravy, topped with creamy mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown.

Ingredients

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  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 2 lbs ground lamb
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 tsp dried rosemary
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 2 lbs potatoes, peeled and quartered
  • 1/2 cup milk
  • 4 tbsp butter
  • 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add ground lamb to the skillet. Break it up with a spoon and cook until browned. Drain off any excess fat.
  4. Season the lamb with salt and pepper. Sprinkle flour over the meat and vegetables and stir to coat. Cook for 1 minute.
  5. Gradually stir in beef broth and Worcestershire sauce. Bring to a simmer, then stir in rosemary and thyme. Reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken.
  6. While the meat mixture simmers, place the potatoes in a large pot and cover with cold water. Add 1/2 tsp salt. Bring to a boil and cook until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
  7. Drain the potatoes well. Return them to the pot and mash them with milk, butter, 1/2 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp pepper until smooth and creamy.
  8. Spread the mashed potatoes evenly over the meat mixture in the skillet. Use a fork to create texture on top, which will help it brown nicely.
  9. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the potato topping is golden brown and the filling is bubbly.
  10. Let the shepherd’s pie rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, you can add a splash of red wine to the meat mixture after browning the lamb.
  • If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish before topping with mashed potatoes.
  • This dish reheats well, making it great for meal planning.

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