Description
Shepherd’s Pie is a classic, hearty dish made with layers of seasoned ground meat, vegetables, and creamy mashed potatoes. This dish is perfect for a family dinner or meal prep, and it can easily be customized for various dietary needs with simple substitutions.
Ingredients
- Ground meat (lamb, beef, chicken, or turkey) – 1 pound (For a vegan option, use 2 cups of lentils or crumbled tofu)
- Onion – 1 medium, finely chopped
- Carrots – 2 medium, diced
- Peas – 1 cup (frozen or fresh)
- Corn – 1 cup (optional, but adds sweetness)
- Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
- Worcestershire sauce – 1 tablespoon (use tamari or coconut aminos for a gluten-free option)
- Beef or vegetable broth – 1 cup (vegetable broth for vegan versions)
- Mashed potatoes – 3 cups (about 4 large potatoes)
- Butter – 2 tablespoons (use vegan butter for plant-based diets)
- Milk or plant-based milk – ¼ cup
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Herbs (thyme, rosemary) – 1 teaspoon each (optional for added flavor)
Instructions
Prepare the Meat Filling (or Vegan Substitute)
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground meat (or lentils/tofu for a vegan version) and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat and set aside.Sauté the Vegetables
In the same skillet, add a small amount of oil, then sauté the onions and diced carrots for 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the peas and corn, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.Create the Sauce
Stir in the tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, and broth. Let the mixture simmer for 5 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme and rosemary. Add the cooked meat (or vegan substitute) back into the pan.Prepare the Mashed Potatoes
Boil the potatoes in salted water for about 15-20 minutes, until tender. Drain and return to the pot. Mash with butter, milk, salt, and pepper until smooth.Assemble the Shepherd’s Pie
Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Spread the meat and vegetable mixture in a baking dish. Top evenly with mashed potatoes, using a fork to create patterns.Bake
Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden brown and bubbly around the edges. Optional: Broil for 2-3 minutes to crisp the top.Serve
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
- Prep Time: 25 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: British, Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/6 of the recipe
- Calories: 450-500 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 750mg
- Fat: 23g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 35-45g
- Fiber: 5-7g
- Protein: 25-30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Shepherd’s Pie, comfort food, gluten-free, vegan option, low-carb, mashed potatoes, casserole, meal prep