Easy Shepherd's Pie Recipe
Introduction
Shepherd's Pie is a traditional Irish dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. It's a simple and comforting meal that's perfect for a cozy dinner with friends or family. The dish consists of a layer of meat, typically lamb or beef, topped with mashed potatoes and baked until golden brown. In this article, we will be sharing an easy Shepherd's Pie recipe that is sure to become a staple in your household.Ingredients
For the meat filling, you will need:- 1 pound of ground beef or lamb
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 cup of beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 large potatoes, peeled and chopped
- 4 tablespoons of butter
- 1/2 cup of milk
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling
In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet and cook for 5-7 minutes until it is no longer pink. Break up any large chunks of meat with a wooden spoon or spatula.Step 2: Add the Vegetables and Spices
Add the frozen peas and carrots to the skillet and stir to combine. Then add the dried thyme, rosemary, tomato paste, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until the vegetables are coated in the spice mixture.Step 3: Add the Broth and Simmer
Pour 1 cup of beef or chicken broth into the skillet and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes until the liquid has reduced and thickened slightly.Step 4: Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
While the meat filling is simmering, prepare the mashed potato topping. Peel and chop 4 large potatoes and place them in a large pot of salted water. Bring the water to a boil and cook the potatoes for 15-20 minutes until they are tender. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot. Add 4 tablespoons of butter and 1/2 cup of milk to the pot and mash everything together until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.Step 5: Assemble the Shepherd's Pie
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the meat filling to a 9x13 inch baking dish and spread it out in an even layer. Spoon the mashed potatoes on top of the meat filling and spread them out evenly with a spatula. Bake the Shepherd's Pie in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbling. Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving.Nutrition
This easy Shepherd's Pie recipe serves 6 and has the following nutrition information per serving:- Calories: 395
- Protein: 19g
- Fat: 19g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 414mg