Classic Shepherd’s Pie

🥧 Classic Shepherd’s Pie (Serves 6)

🍖 Meat Filling:

• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 lb ground lamb (traditional) or ground beef (for “Cottage Pie”)
• 1 onion, finely diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp tomato paste
• 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
• 1 cup beef or chicken broth
• 1 tsp rosemary, chopped
• 1 tsp thyme, chopped
• ½ cup frozen peas
• Salt & pepper to taste

🥔 Mashed Potato Topping:

• 2 lbs potatoes (Russet or Yukon Gold), peeled & cubed
• ½ cup milk (or cream)
• 4 tbsp butter
• ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
• Salt & pepper to taste

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Cook the Filling:

1️⃣ Heat oil in a large skillet. Brown lamb/beef over medium-high heat. Drain excess fat.
2️⃣ Add onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté 5 mins until softened.
3️⃣ Stir in tomato paste, Worcestershire, herbs, and broth. Simmer 10 mins until thickened.
4️⃣ Add peas, season with salt & pepper, then transfer to a 9×13-inch baking dish.

2. Make the Mashed Potatoes:

1️⃣ Boil potatoes until tender (~15 mins). Drain.
2️⃣ Mash with milk, butter, salt & pepper until smooth.

3. Assemble & Bake:

1️⃣ Spread mashed potatoes over the meat filling. Fluff with a fork.
2️⃣ Sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
3️⃣ Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 mins until golden.
4️⃣ Broil 2-3 mins for extra crispiness.

🌟 Pro Tips:

• Make ahead: Assemble, refrigerate, and bake later (add 10 mins to baking time).
• Extra flavor: Add a splash of red wine to the filling.
• Gluten-free: Use GF Worcestershire sauce.

🍽 Serving Suggestion:

Pair with a simple green salad or crusty bread. Perfect for chilly nights!

This bubbly, golden-topped pie is the ultimate comfort food. Let me know if you’d like a lighter or vegetarian version! 😊