Shepherd’s Pie Recipe

 

Shepherd’s Pie 

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Ingredients:

For the Meat Filling:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 450g (1 lb) ground lamb (or ground beef for Cottage Pie)
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1 cup frozen peas
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Mashed Potato Topping:

• 4 large potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks
• 1/2 cup milk or cream
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions:

1. Prepare the Mashed Potatoes:

1. Boil the potatoes in salted water until tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2. Drain the potatoes and mash with milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Stir in the cheese if using. Set aside.

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2. Make the Meat Filling:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the ground lamb (or beef) and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain any excess fat.
5. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
6. Add Worcestershire sauce, broth, thyme, and paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes, or until the mixture thickens slightly.
7. Stir in the frozen peas and season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

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3. Assemble the Pie:

1. Transfer the meat mixture to a baking dish and spread it out evenly.
2. Spoon the mashed potatoes over the meat filling, spreading it out to cover completely. Use a fork to create ridges on the surface for a crispier topping.

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4. Bake:

1. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling.
2. Let it cool slightly before serving.

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Serving Suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.

This Shepherd’s Pie is a warm, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or chilly nights! Enjoy!