Savory Shepherd’s Delight: A Hearty and Flavorful Shepherd’s Pie
A traditional comfort food, Shepherd’s Pie is a savory dish that combines ground meat, vegetables, and mashed potatoes into a warm, satisfying meal. This British classic is perfect for a family dinner or a cozy night in. The rich flavors of the seasoned meat and the creamy mashed potatoes make each bite a delightful experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground lamb (or beef, if preferred)
– 2 cups frozen mixed vegetables (corn, peas, carrots)
– 1 medium onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
– 4 cups mashed potatoes (prepared fresh or from leftovers)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Meat Filling
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the ground lamb (or beef) to the skillet. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
5. Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and all-purpose flour. Mix well to combine.
6. Slowly pour in the beef broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
7. Add the frozen mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir to combine and cook until the vegetables are heated through.
8. Season the filling with salt and pepper to taste. Remove from heat.
Step 2: Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Spoon the meat filling into a baking dish, spreading it out into an even layer.
3. Top the meat filling with the prepared mashed potatoes, spreading them evenly over the surface.
4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese over the mashed potatoes.
Step 3: Bake the Shepherd’s Pie
1. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven.
2. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the filling is bubbly around the edges.
3. Remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
1. Garnish the Shepherd’s Pie with chopped fresh parsley.
2. Serve warm and enjoy the savory, hearty flavors of this classic dish.